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Cruise Direct Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Bar Harbor, ME · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Grand Rivers, KY · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Alton, IL · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Astoria, OR

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Nantucket, MA · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Alpena, MI · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Boston, MA · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Gulfport, MS

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Washington, DC

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Astoria, OR · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Providence, RI

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Chester, IL · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

The Dalles, OR · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines ...

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Cruise Direct information

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How much do cruise direct jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cruise direct in the United States is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cruise Direct vs Cruise Sales Agent?

AspectCruise DirectCruise Sales Agent
Required CredentialsCustomer service experience, sales skillsCustomer service experience, sales skills
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, cruise line headquartersOffice or remote, travel agencies or cruise lines
Employer & Industry UsageCruise lines, travel companiesTravel agencies, cruise lines
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Cruise Direct and Cruise Sales Agents focus on selling cruise vacations, requiring similar customer service and sales skills. Cruise Direct typically works directly with cruise lines or online platforms, handling bookings and customer inquiries. Cruise Sales Agents often work for travel agencies, assisting clients in choosing and booking cruises. While their roles overlap in sales and customer interaction, their work environments and employer types differ slightly, but both roles are essential in the cruise industry.

What does a Cruise Director do?

A Cruise Director is responsible for overseeing all entertainment and guest activities on a cruise ship. They plan, coordinate, and host events such as shows, parties, and excursions, ensuring guests have an enjoyable and memorable experience. Cruise Directors also act as the main point of contact for passengers regarding entertainment and activities, working closely with staff to deliver high-quality service. Their role requires excellent organizational, communication, and public speaking skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cruise Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cruise Director, you need experience in hospitality or entertainment, strong organizational skills, and often a background in event planning or tourism management. Familiarity with cruise management software, public address systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, leadership, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help a Cruise Director engage guests and manage diverse teams. These skills ensure smooth onboard operations, high guest satisfaction, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges at sea.

How does a Cruise Director typically collaborate with other ship departments to ensure a seamless guest experience?

A Cruise Director works closely with multiple ship departments, including entertainment, hospitality, food and beverage, and guest services, to coordinate daily events and ensure smooth operations. Regular meetings with department heads help align schedules, resolve logistical challenges, and respond to guest feedback. This collaborative approach is critical for delivering a cohesive and enjoyable experience for all passengers, as it ensures that activities and services run on time and meet the ship's high standards.
More about Cruise Direct jobs
What cities are hiring for Cruise Direct jobs? Cities with the most Cruise Direct job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Cruise Direct jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cruise Direct jobs are:
Cruise Direct jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cruise Direct job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,887 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Cruise Director

Cruise Director

American Cruise Lines

Clarksville, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Cruise Director
American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is looking to add Cruise Directors to our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United States and has no more than 200 passenger vessels that create a one-of-a-kind small ship experience. With newly constructed vessels being added to our fleet, it is a great opportunity to join our shipboard management team.

The Cruise Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is responsible for creating a fun atmosphere onboard while always engaging guests through a series of activities, shows, events, presentations and socializing throughout the cruise. The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous cruise/resort experience, extraordinarily polished presentation skills, collaborative approach, team spirit, and a passion for guest satisfaction. The Cruise Director reports to the Hotel Manager.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity programs that enhance and elevate the guest experience.
  • Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public address system and one-on-one interaction and socialization.
  • Socialize with guests at every opportunity including, but not limited to, mealtimes and cocktail hour.
  • Greet guests as they depart for and return from shore excursions.
  • Make daily Noon announcement/update; make every effort to make all PA announcements as the “voice” of the cruise.
  • Meet with Excursions Director, Guest Speakers, Guest Instructors and Resident Entertainers at the start of every cruise to review scheduling.
  • Create the daily Ship to Shore.
  • Host Officer Introduction and Excursion Briefing.
  • Assist in the delivery of the Safety Briefing with the Captain.
  • Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events, presentations and shows (lounge configuration, A/V requirements, etc.).
  • Confirm entertainers 48-hours in advance; assist entertainers and onboard speaker’s A/V needs.
  • Create and update bulletin board daily.
  • Work with Excursions Director to prepare folders and materials for turnaround day.
  • Act as company representative at pre-cruise hotels on turnaround day.
  • Promote onboard sales and brand loyalty by hosting re-booking events.
  • Oversee proper VIP guest service delivery.
  • Communicate and report regularly to the Home Office as to the status of the cruise, guest issues and recovery, and the evaluations of Guest Speakers, Instructors and Entertainers.
  • Perform bartending duties as needed with other management personnel.
Qualifications:
  • Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be considered.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications
  • Extremely polished speaking/presentation skills required.
  • Strong interpersonal and social skills required.
  • Strong critical thinking skills required.
  • Must possess a strong sense of production and presentation.
  • Basic knowledge of audio/visual equipment required.
  • Must be enthusiastic, outgoing, confident, and always have a can-do attitude.
  • Excellent time management and attention to detail.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Attributes for Success:
  • Ability to engage guests throughout each cruise.
  • Superior time management.
  • Ability to manage and solve problems.
  • Sense of urgency in all guest, crew, and home office requests.
  • Positive attitude and receptive to continuous performance feedback.
Work Schedule:
  • 7 Days per week while onboard the ship.
  • 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard the ship / 1 to 2 weeks off.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20” diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Job sites across the nation.
**This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

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