Cruise Director
The Dalles, OR · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
The Dalles, OR · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Washington, DC · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Washington, DC · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
New York, NY · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
New York, NY · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Fort Madison, IA · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Fort Madison, IA · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Florence, AL · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Florence, AL · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Dover, TN · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Dover, TN · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Wheeling, WV · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Wheeling, WV · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Clarksville, TN · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Clarksville, TN · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Belfast, ME · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Belfast, ME · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Dover, TN · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Dover, TN · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Nantucket, MA · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Nantucket, MA · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Muskegon, MI · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Muskegon, MI · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Rochester, NY · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Rochester, NY · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Sandy, UT · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Sandy, UT · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Annapolis, MD · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Annapolis, MD · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Nantucket, MA · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Director
Nantucket, MA · On-site
... Ships. Responsibilities: * Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity ... Cruise ship experience preferred, but candidates with upscale hotel/resort experience will be ...
Cruise Ship Activity information
See salary details
$9.38 - $10.38
1% of jobs
$10.38 - $11.39
1% of jobs
$11.39 - $12.39
4% of jobs
$12.39 - $13.40
6% of jobs
$14.34 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.40 - $14.40
13% of jobs
$14.40 - $15.41
20% of jobs
The median wage is $15.63 / hr.
$15.41 - $16.41
17% of jobs
$17.24 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.41 - $17.42
14% of jobs
$17.42 - $18.42
13% of jobs
$18.42 - $19.43
6% of jobs
$19.43 - $20.43
3% of jobs
$9
$15
$20
How much do cruise ship activity jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cruise ship activity in the United States is $15.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Cruise Ship Activity vs Cruise Ship Entertainment Coordinator?
| Aspect | Cruise Ship Activity | Cruise Ship Entertainment Coordinator |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Organizing and leading recreational activities for guests | Planning, coordinating, and managing entertainment programs and events |
| Required Credentials | Certifications in activity leadership, CPR, first aid | Event planning, communication skills, sometimes entertainment or hospitality background |
| Work Environment | Outdoor and indoor activity areas onboard | Event venues, production areas, backstage |
| Industry Usage | Commonly used for staff leading guest activities | Used for staff managing entertainment programs |
While both roles involve enhancing guest experience on cruise ships, Cruise Ship Activities focus on leading recreational events, whereas Cruise Ship Entertainment Coordinators manage broader entertainment programs and performances. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the cruise industry.
What's the easiest job to get on a cruise ship?
The easiest job to get on a cruise ship is often entry-level positions such as housekeeping or food service staff, which typically require minimal prior experience and may not need specialized certifications. These roles usually have straightforward hiring processes and are available frequently due to high turnover. Having good communication skills and a positive attitude can improve chances of securing these positions.
How to get a performing job on a cruise ship?
To get a performing job on a cruise ship, applicants typically need relevant entertainment experience, such as singing, dancing, or playing an instrument, along with audition submissions. Many cruise lines require auditions or video submissions, and candidates often need to pass medical and background checks, as well as obtain necessary visas or work permits. Strong stage presence, versatility, and the ability to work in a team are also important.
What are some of the unique challenges faced by Cruise Ship Activity Coordinators, and how can new hires prepare for them?
Cruise Ship Activity Coordinators often work in a fast-paced, multicultural environment where flexibility and adaptability are crucial. They may face challenges such as adjusting schedules due to weather changes, catering to guests from diverse backgrounds, and managing multiple events simultaneously. New hires can prepare by developing strong organizational and communication skills, being open to feedback, and familiarizing themselves with cultural sensitivity practices. Teamwork is essential, as coordinators regularly collaborate with entertainment staff, hospitality teams, and management to ensure a seamless guest experience.
What qualifications do you need to be a cruise ship entertainer?
Cruise ship entertainers typically need relevant performance skills such as singing, dancing, or acting, along with professional experience in their field. Many employers also require a valid passport, the ability to work flexible hours, and sometimes certifications like CPR or first aid. Good communication skills and the ability to engage diverse audiences are also important.
How much do cruise ship entertainers get paid?
Cruise ship entertainers typically earn between $1,500 and $3,500 per month, depending on experience, role, and cruise line. Salaries can vary based on the type of entertainment, contract length, and additional tips or bonuses received onboard.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cruise Ship Activity Coordinator, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Cruise Ship Activity Coordinator, you need strong organizational skills, creativity, and experience in event planning or hospitality, often backed by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with scheduling software, audio-visual equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and high energy levels help you engage guests and handle diverse situations on board. These skills are crucial for delivering enjoyable, safe, and memorable experiences that enhance guest satisfaction and the ship's reputation.
What are cruise ship activity staff?
Cruise ship activity staff are crew members responsible for planning, organizing, and leading recreational activities and entertainment programs for passengers aboard a cruise ship. Their duties include hosting games, fitness classes, themed parties, trivia contests, and other onboard events to ensure guests have an enjoyable and memorable experience. They work closely with other entertainment staff and often interact directly with passengers to encourage participation and enhance the overall cruise experience.
More about Cruise Ship Activity jobs
What cities are hiring for Cruise Ship Activity jobs? Cities with the most Cruise Ship Activity job openings:
What states have the most Cruise Ship Activity jobs? States with the most job openings for Cruise Ship Activity jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cruise Ship Activity jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cruise Ship Activity jobs are:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement
Re-posted 8 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:
Qualifications:
Attributes for Success:
Work Schedule:
Essential Functions:
Compensation and Benefits:
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.
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.
About American Cruise Lines
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Travel arrangement services
Company size
201 - 500 Employees
Headquarters location
Guilford, CT, US
Year founded
1991