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Cruise Entertainment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

The Dalles, OR · On-site

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Muskegon, MI

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Annapolis, MD · On-site

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Sandy, UT · On-site

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Dover, TN

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Rochester, NY · On-site

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Nantucket, MA

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Belfast, ME · On-site

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Clarksville, TN · On-site

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Dover, TN · On-site

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Florence, AL · On-site

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Wheeling, WV · On-site

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Annapolis, MD

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Wheeling, WV

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Boston, MA

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Alton, IL · On-site

The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications on board. This leadership role requires an energetic, creative, talented individual with previous ...

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All JobsCruise Entertainment Jobs

Cruise Entertainment information

See salary details

$44.5K

$87.7K

$184.5K

How much do cruise entertainment jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for cruise entertainment in the United States is $87,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $108,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by cruise entertainment staff compared to land-based entertainment roles?

Cruise entertainment staff often face the challenge of performing for a diverse, international audience with varying preferences and expectations. Additionally, they must adapt to living and working at sea for extended periods, which can be physically and mentally demanding. The work schedule is typically rigorous, with multiple shows and activities each day, and staff frequently collaborate closely with other departments to create a seamless guest experience. Flexibility, teamwork, and strong communication skills are essential to thrive in this dynamic environment.

What is cruise entertainment?

Cruise entertainment refers to the wide variety of shows, performances, and activities provided on cruise ships to engage and amuse guests during their voyage. This can include live music, theatrical productions, comedy acts, dance performances, themed parties, game shows, and more. The goal is to create a fun and memorable experience for passengers, often with professional entertainers and state-of-the-art venues. Entertainment options can vary depending on the cruise line and the specific ship, but they are an important part of the overall cruise experience.

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

To thrive as a Cruise Entertainment professional, you need a background in performing arts, event coordination, and guest engagement, often supported by experience in theater, music, or hospitality. Familiarity with audio-visual equipment, stage management software, and safety protocols is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, strong interpersonal skills, and teamwork are vital soft skills for connecting with diverse audiences and collaborating with crew members. These skills ensure seamless entertainment experiences that enhance guest satisfaction and uphold the cruise line's reputation.

What is the difference between Cruise Entertainment vs Cruise Entertainment Technician?

AspectCruise EntertainmentCruise Entertainment Technician
Required CredentialsPerformers, hosts, dancers, musicians often with entertainment or performing arts backgroundTechnical skills in audio, lighting, stage setup; certifications in sound engineering or technical production
Work EnvironmentOnboard cruise ships, entertainment venues, theatersOnboard cruise ships, technical control rooms, stage areas
Employer & Industry UsageCruise lines, entertainment agenciesCruise lines, technical production companies
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on performance and audience engagementFocuses on technical setup and equipment maintenance

While Cruise Entertainment involves performing and engaging guests through shows and activities, Cruise Entertainment Technicians specialize in the technical aspects like sound, lighting, and stage setup. Both roles are essential onboard, but they differ in skills and responsibilities.

More about Cruise Entertainment jobs
What cities are hiring for Cruise Entertainment jobs? Cities with the most Cruise Entertainment job openings:
What states have the most Cruise Entertainment jobs? States with the most job openings for Cruise Entertainment jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cruise Entertainment jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cruise Entertainment jobs are:
Cruise Entertainment jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cruise Entertainment job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,739 per year, or $42.2 per hour.
Head of Entertainment, Cruise Director

Head of Entertainment, Cruise Director

Princess Cruises

New York, NY

$7.5K - $14K/mo

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago

Princess Cruises rating

4.8

Company rating: 4.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 9 rated cruise lines

Job description

Description
By applying to this position, your application will be submitted to Princess Cruises' internal Talent Acquisition team and will be reviewed by a professional recruiter who will contact you soon if your qualifications meet our requirements for this position.
 
As the world's leading cruise line, our guests have high expectations of us, and we have high expectations of our team members. We appreciate your patience as we carefully review each candidate.
 

Set a course for adventure with Princess Cruises! The employer of choice in the cruise industry, our fleet of Love Boats offer exceptional facilities and extensive professional development and recreational programs for our valued teammates who hail from more than 60 countries around the globe. 
 
An iconic brand beloved by millions, we love people who love what they do and work together to help our guests create a lifetime of wonderful memories while providing friendly, attentive and authentic service like only Princess can. 
 
As a member of the Princess Family, you’ll enjoy a truly adventurous career with excellent incentives, unlimited opportunities for growth, and ports of call that will leave you breathless.

Key Responsibilities
  • The Cruise Director is responsible for leading, mentoring, and developing a diverse Entertainment and Activity Staff team to consistently deliver a guest experience that aligns with brand standards. They act as the onboard Brand Ambassador, hosting significant guest-facing events and activities, presenting a dynamic and engaging entertainment program. This role monitors operations and inspires a guest- and teammate-centric culture that enhances Net Promoter scores, profitability, and Service Excellence while ensuring a safe and healthy environment in accordance with HESS protocols.
  • The Cruise Director leads and develops a department of highly skilled individuals that deliver consistently on all Entertainment products, including Youth and Teens, Guest Activities, Onboard Media, Enrichment Programs, Production Services, Music Services, Guest Entertainers, and supports all onboard guest programming. They champion all elements of the MedallionClass experience through accountability, training, and delivery.
  • The Cruise Director ensures a personalized, guest-centric culture and reduces friction points by exceeding entertainment targets. They collaborate with Entertainment Managers to create customized experiences and share best practices for increased personalization. They oversee the Guest Entertainment Experience, aligning development and execution with shipboard leaders, monitor quality assurance standards, and collaborate with entertainment management to enhance the entertainment experience.
  • The Cruise Director also manages department costs and inventory in line with established budgets, conducts regular meetings with the Technical department to oversee entertainment repairs and maintenance, reviews strategies for cost efficiencies, and communicates company updates and strategies to the Entertainment team using appropriate technology.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
  • Those who are successful in their candidacy must demonstrate a substantial background in the organisation of events, activities, shows and theatrical performances. This does not entail a role within the ensemble; rather, it is a position that is outward-facing, with the individual acting as the focal point of the production. The candidate must possess a stage style that is confident yet charming, charismatic and energetic. The delivery must be controlled, natural and easy to watch, yet engaging, humorous and endearing. 
  • Additionally, successful candidates must possess robust leadership abilities and demonstrate the capacity to oversee large, diverse, and multicultural teams. They must also exhibit proficiency in budgetary management and inventory control.
  • A comprehensive curriculum vitae is essential. It is important to provide a concise and easily readable overview of one's professional experience. However, if we may offer a suggestion, it is often preferable to present a minimalist approach.
  • Additionally, a brief video presentation showcasing the candidate's personality, communication abilities, and public speaking skills is required. While it is not necessary to have a professional video, it is essential that it accurately represents the candidate's genuine appearance. Please refer to the attached Video Submission Instructions.

Job Benefits
Embark on a career adventure like no other! As part of the Princess Cruises team, you’ll enjoy:
  • A competitive salary package.
  • Your own comfortable single cabin - your private space to relax and recharge.
  • Company-paid travel to and from the ship, so you can focus on the journey ahead.
  • Access to exclusive areas and benefits onboard (depending on the rank and occupational group).
  • A vibrant recreation and welfare program designed to support your well-being and work-life balance.
  • Access to exceptional learning and development opportunities to grow your skills and advance your career.
  • The chance to travel the world, exploring exciting destinations while doing what you love.
  • A welcoming, inclusive, and dynamic work environment where your contributions are valued.
Join us and become part of a global team that’s passionate about delivering unforgettable experiences—both for our guests and for one another.

What Princess Cruises employees say

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