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Cruise Ship Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

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 ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Washington, DC · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

New York, NY · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard the ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Providence, RI · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

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 ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

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 ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Washington, DC · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Clarksville, TN · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Clarksville, TN · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Florence, AL

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

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 ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

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 ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Friday Harbor, WA · On-site

Cruise Director American Cruise Lines, the largest USA flagged cruise line in the United States, is ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

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 ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

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 ... Work Schedule: * 7 Days per week while onboard the ship. * 6 to 8 weeks working and living onboard ...

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Cruise Ship Worker information

See salary details

$14.5K

$49K

$102.5K

How much do cruise ship worker jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for cruise ship worker in the United States is $49,005.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,000.00 and $58,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cruise ship worker?

A Cruise Ship Worker is a professional employed on a cruise ship, responsible for various tasks to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for passengers. Jobs on a cruise ship range from hospitality and entertainment to maintenance and navigation. Workers live onboard for extended periods and often work long hours but get to travel to different destinations. Positions include housekeeping, chefs, bartenders, performers, engineers, and customer service staff. The job requires flexibility, good communication skills, and a customer-focused attitude.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the cruise ship worker position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cruise Ship Worker, you need excellent customer service, hospitality knowledge, and often previous experience in hospitality or relevant certifications like STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers). Familiarity with point-of-sale systems, safety protocols, and onboard communication tools is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and teamwork are crucial for thriving in an international, fast-paced work environment. These skills are essential to ensure passenger safety, deliver high-quality guest experiences, and contribute to seamless ship operations.

What is the typical work environment and schedule like for a cruise ship worker?

Cruise ship workers typically live and work onboard the ship for extended periods, often following contracts that last several months. The environment is fast-paced and can be physically demanding, with long hours and rotating shifts that may include nights, weekends, and holidays. Teams are diverse and multicultural, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where flexibility and teamwork are essential. While time off is limited to scheduled breaks and port visits, many cruise lines offer recreational facilities and organized crew activities to help staff relax and connect.

Can I work on a cruise ship with no experience?

Cruise ship companies often hire entry-level workers with little or no experience, especially for roles such as hospitality, cleaning, or food service. However, some positions may require specific skills or certifications, and training is usually provided onboard. Having good communication skills and a positive attitude can improve your chances of employment.

How much do cruise ship workers pay?

Cruise ship workers' salaries vary depending on the position, experience, and cruise line, but generally range from $1,200 to $3,000 per month. Entry-level roles such as hospitality staff may earn lower wages, while specialized positions like entertainment or technical staff can earn higher salaries. Many roles also include benefits such as free accommodation and meals while onboard.

How much money does a cruise ship worker make?

Cruise ship workers' salaries vary by position, experience, and cruise line, but generally range from $1,200 to $3,000 per month. Some roles, such as officers or specialized staff, can earn higher wages, and many positions include benefits like free room and board. Tips and overtime may also supplement income for certain roles.

What qualifications do I need to work on a cruise ship?

Cruise ship workers typically need relevant experience or training related to their specific role, such as hospitality, customer service, or technical skills. Many positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles may require certifications like STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) or first aid. Good communication skills, flexibility, and the ability to work in a team are also important.
More about Cruise Ship Worker jobs

What cities are hiring for Cruise Ship Worker jobs?

Cities with the most Cruise Ship Worker job openings:

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

The most popular types of Cruise Ship Worker jobs are:

What states have the most Cruise Ship Worker jobs?

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

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

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

Cruise Ship Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cruise Ship Worker 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 $49,005 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Cruise Director

American Cruise Lines

Nantucket, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 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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