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Cruise Entertainment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Washington, DC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Alpena, MI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Key West, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

The Dalles, OR

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Alpena, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Gulfport, MS

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Friday Harbor, WA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Bar Harbor, ME · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Friday Harbor, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Farmington, UT

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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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Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 18, 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 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?

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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,739 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Cruise Director

American Cruise Lines

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 13 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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