FAQs

How long is a contract?

All contracts are 7 months in length. Acupuncturists can request contract extensions. Depending on the performance of your first contract, you will be considered for additional contracts.

What is my earning potential?

You will earn commission on all services and retail sold. On average acupuncturists are making $800 a week. Again, this is an average. There are acupuncturists making more and less than this amount, but the potential is there to make much more.

Are there any health benefits?

Medical for illness or injury, essential dental, vacation/sick pay, and survivor benefits are provided whilst under contract. Your employee agreement will provide full details of all benefits.

What are the hours of work?

Acupuncturists work an average of 52 hours a week. OneSpaWorld guarantees 1.5 days off per week.

What are the living quarters like?

As an acupuncturist, you are entitled to your own crew cabin with private bathroom. It may be small and basic, but it will be your own. This is quite a luxury as a small percentage of the crew on board is given their own cabin. In some rare instances, a shared room may be assigned based on vessel size and crew cabin availability.

How do I do laundry?

Free laundry facilities are available for staff. You will need to provide your own laundry detergent.

How will I get paid?

Your first payment can take up to, but no longer, than 30 days to process. Depending on your itinerary, you will either be paid weekly or bi-weekly. You will be given a Brightwell card, which is a Visa debit card. All your earnings will be deposited directly to your Brightwell card. You will need to take some cash, ATM card and/or credit cards with you to carry you through the first month. You will be paid in the US Dollars.

What am I responsible for as far as living expenses?

Your flights to and from the ship are covered on your first contract. All food and accommodations are provided whilst on board. All printing, promotional material, and practice equipment are covered as well. Once you are on board, you will have virtually no living expenses.

Must I have a medical before I get on board?

Yes, you have to complete a maritime medical at an approved maritime location prior to leaving for the ship. The medical is a thorough exam that involves taking blood tests, urinalysis, blood pressure, eye, hearing, and lung function tests, and a chest x-ray. The cruise lines must confirm you are physically fit to work on board. Please note a drug test will also be conducted. Failure of the medical or drug test will result in the termination of your contract. It is your responsibility to pay for your medical exam.

How much notice will I get if I am hired?

The amount of notice you may get can vary. Positions are always coming up – some sooner than others. Emergency positions do come up may only leave you with a few days’ notice.

Do I have to wear a uniform?

Uniforms are required during working hours. The dress code is business casual attire with full-length white lab coats. You must always abide by ship dress code rules whilst in passenger areas.

Can I get off the ship while in port?

Yes! When you have free time during the day you can get off the ship and do what you please, providing you are not scheduled to work and you are back on board by the required time.

Where do the cruises go?

The ships sail all over the world. Depending on the cruise line and the time of year, cruise ships can be in the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Australia, Mexico, Bermuda, and the list goes on and on. The ships operate every day, all year around.

Can I socialise with the passengers?

It is an integral part of your job as you will be conducting seminars and representing the spa at ship events. However, it is important to note inappropriate fraternization with guests is cause for immediate dismissal.

How much do acupuncture treatments cost on board?

Treatment costs vary depending on the cruise line but in general, the first treatment is $179. There are treatment plans/package prices available. Acupuncture sessions all take 50 minutes.

Can I get mail?

Yes, you can receive mail/packages on board. Every ship has an address. You can get that information once you are on board. It is not recommended to forward all of your personal mail to the ship.

Can I check my e-mail while on board?

You can access e-mail and make phone calls whilst on board. Crew members can access the internet and phone for a fee (less than what guests pay); however, it is more expensive compared to on land. The best and most affordable option is to access the Internet from port and to make calls whilst in port.

Can I bring my family with me?

You will not be able to bring your family with you.

Can you tell me more about the training?

The training is held in California and lasts three days. Training will cover the requirements of the position to include sales and marketing, treatment protocols, seminar/public speaking, and product knowledge.

Do I need a special visa?

If you are not authorized to work in the USA, you will need to obtain a C1/D visa. We will provide the required documentation, and it is your responsibility to obtain this visa. If you are authorized to work in the USA (Citizen or Green Card Holder), you may need to obtain a travel visa depending on the country where you will join the ship. The company will advise you on this. The company pays for your visa.

How soon after training do I join the ship?

You will join your assigned ship 1-7 days after completing training.

What ship will I be assigned to?

You will be informed of your ship assignment prior to training. Ship assignments are based on availability in the month you will start your contract.

Will I be on the same ship the entire length of my contract?

Our intent is to pair each acupuncturist with a cruise line brand for an entire contract. There may be instances in which business needs require a transfer to another ship or brand. We will handle all transfers to ensure a seamless transition.

Can I leave the ship for a couple of days and come back?

You will not be able to leave the ship for any additional time other than the required hours the ship is in its port destination. You must be back on board by the required time.