ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cruise Ship Captain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Dover, TN · On-site

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Florence, AL · On-site

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Wheeling, WV · On-site

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Belfast, ME · On-site

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Alton, IL · On-site

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Alpena, MI · On-site

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Nantucket, MA · On-site

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Key West, FL · On-site

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Muskegon, MI · On-site

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Boston, MA

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Alpena, MI

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Florence, AL · On-site

Effectively communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, television, stage, public ... Safety Briefing with the Captain. * Ensure lounges are prepared for activities, events ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsTravel JobsMaritime JobsCruise Ship Captain Jobs

Cruise Ship Captain information

See salary details

$15

$26

$47

How much do cruise ship captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for cruise ship captain in the United States is $26.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cruise ship captain?

Cruise Ship Captains are highly trained maritime professionals responsible for commanding and overseeing the safe operation of a cruise ship. They ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and crew, navigate the vessel, and comply with international maritime regulations. Captains also manage staff, coordinate with port authorities, and make critical decisions during emergencies. To become a Cruise Ship Captain, one typically needs years of experience at sea and must hold advanced maritime certifications.

What does a cruise ship captain do?

A cruise ship captain oversees all onboard operations on a cruise ship. Your duties include ensuring the safety of passengers and crew during a voyage. You also navigate the vessel, make decisions about ship operations, and delegate tasks to other crew members. Your responsibilities include ensuring that crew members follow both technical procedures and meet the service needs of passengers. In some cases, a cruise ship captain also interacts with passengers and hosts social events during each voyage. You make all executive-level decisions about the ship, and you are in charge of the response in the event of an emergency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cruise ship captain, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cruise Ship Captain, you need a deep knowledge of maritime navigation, vessel operations, and safety protocols, typically supported by a degree from a maritime academy and an unlimited master’s license (STCW certification). Expertise in advanced navigation systems, radar, GPS, electronic chart display, and compliance with international maritime regulations is essential. Leadership, decision-making under pressure, and exceptional communication skills are crucial for managing large crews and ensuring passenger safety. These skills and qualifications are vital to guarantee safe, efficient voyages and uphold the cruise line’s reputation.

What are some common challenges faced by cruise ship captains during long voyages?

Cruise ship captains often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, ensuring passenger and crew safety, and coordinating with a diverse international team. They must make critical decisions quickly, especially during emergencies or unexpected events at sea. Navigating complex itineraries, adhering to maritime regulations, and maintaining clear communication with both onboard departments and shoreside operations are essential parts of their daily responsibilities.

What is the difference between Cruise Ship Captain vs Marine Engineer?

AspectCruise Ship CaptainMarine Engineer
CredentialsSTCW Master’s License, maritime certificationsSTCW Engineer’s License, marine engineering certifications
Work EnvironmentBridge, ship’s deck, navigation areasEngine rooms, technical areas, machinery spaces
Industry UsageOversees ship operations, safety, navigationMaintains engines, propulsion systems, technical systems

The Cruise Ship Captain and Marine Engineer roles both require maritime certifications and work onboard ships, but they focus on different areas. The captain manages navigation and safety, while the marine engineer handles technical systems and machinery. Both are essential for smooth cruise operations and are highly sought after in the maritime industry.

Are cruise ship captains in demand?

Cruise ship captains are in steady demand due to the ongoing growth of the cruise industry and the need for experienced maritime professionals. The role requires extensive training, certifications, and leadership skills, and employment opportunities are influenced by industry health and travel trends.

How much money do cruise ship captains get paid?

Cruise ship captains typically earn between $100,000 and $250,000 annually, depending on the cruise line, experience, and the size of the vessel. Salaries often include benefits such as housing, travel, and health insurance, and captains usually work on contracts that last several months with time off between assignments.
More about Cruise Ship Captain jobs

What cities are hiring for Cruise Ship Captain jobs?

Cities with the most Cruise Ship Captain job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Cruise Ship Captain jobs?

The most popular types of Cruise Ship Captain jobs are:

What states have the most Cruise Ship Captain jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cruise Ship Captain jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Cruise Ship Captain jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Cruise Ship Captain jobs are:

Cruise Ship Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cruise Ship Captain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,541 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Cruise Director

American Cruise Lines

Manhattan, NY

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 14 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.

Apply