“Just Inspiring”: Ship Musician Flexes His Salary of up to R52,000 Monthly
- A cruise ship musician shared his age and income details on social media, revealing how much he earns at just 25 years old
- The TikTok user participated in a viral challenge aimed at breaking financial stigmas
- South Africans had mixed reactions to his salary reveal, with some congratulating him on his success while others criticised him for posting his earnings publicly
Source: TikTok
A cruise ship musician has sparked heated debate after sharing his impressive monthly salary on social media. The viral post has got South Africans talking about finances.
TikTok user @enriquejohnsonpk, who regularly shares content about his life as a ship musician working on cruise ships, posted a mirror selfie on 9 September 2025 with the caption:
"Challenge accepted. Age and income challenge! Not crying, just inspiring. Let's break stigmas and spark real conversations about finances."
The post quickly gained over 3,000 reactions and numerous comments from viewers.
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In his post, the 25-year-old musician revealed he earns between R47,000 to R52,000 monthly. He also shared that he's married with one child and has travelled to nine countries, 16 states, and over 30 cities through his work. He also described himself as a follower of Jesus Christ.
The young man, known for sharing videos about his experiences working on cruise ships, regularly posts about the destinations he visits, the food he eats, and what it's like being a musician aboard luxury vessels. His content gives followers insight into the unique lifestyle of cruise ship employees who travel the world while working.
Source: TikTok
Mzansi reacts to ship musician's salary flex
@vinster challenged:
"Humble yourself. What have you done to help those less fortunate than you? That counts more than these numbers you're putting out."
@cakescpt questioned:
"Okay, show us the proof, that's all we need to believe you."
@que.trigga commented:
"It's just God's favour, and He does it even to those that don't follow Him."
@queen.b praised:
"You made it. I'm happy for you. I can't wait for the Lord to also take me where he needs me, but while I wait, I'll keep thanking him no matter what and clapping for those who have made it."
@gentlebrother encouraged:
"Well, child of colour, your dreams are valid, proud of you."
@gstar added:
"Don't underestimate what God can do for you when you fully commit yourself to Him. I'm happy for you, my brother."
Getting jobs on cruise ships
According to experts on Zero Travel, most new crew members earn between $1,000–$1,500 a month (about R18,000–R28,000). While that might not sound like a lot, the cruise line covers food, accommodation, and most living costs.
There are many different jobs on board, from hospitality and technical roles to entertainment. Musicians, for example, fall under the entertainment category, alongside activities staff and performers. These jobs often come with officer-level perks, like better cabins and working conditions, from the start.
Contracts usually last 4 to 8 months, followed by 6 to 10 weeks off. Many crew members use this time to travel or visit their families back home. The lifestyle suits people who enjoy adventure, meeting people from all over the world, and working in multicultural teams.
View the TikTok post below:
Other stories about salaries
- Briefly News recently reported on a Johannesburg woman who walked away from a R45,000 monthly salary after facing severe workplace toxicity, but the reason she left will break your heart.
- A traffic officer's payslip from the Western Cape got Mzansi talking when viewers spotted unusual perks and deductions that sparked debates about government employee benefits.
- A digital marketing manager's salary breakdown disappointed many South Africans when they discovered what someone with 3 to 5 years of experience actually earns in the industry.
Source: Briefly News
