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Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Cruise Ship Excursion Manager is ultimately responsible for daily operations of Cruise Ship Excursions executed by RED Hospitality and Leisure. The scope of responsibility will include, but is ...

Cruise Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Washington, DC

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Providence, RI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

The Dalles, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Manhattan, NY

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Belfast, ME · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Grand Rivers, KY

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Dover, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Clarksville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Wheeling, WV · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Florence, AL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Nantucket, MA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Port Canaveral, FL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Rochester, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Annapolis, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Sandy, UT · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

New York, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

Cruise Director

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... our shipboard team for our 2026 season. American Cruise Lines only operates within the United ... The Cruise Director manages the entertainment, presentations, activities, events and communications ...

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Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship information

See salary details

$23K

$61.4K

$102.5K

How much do entertainment manager cruise ship jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entertainment manager cruise ship in the United States is $61,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entertainment managers on cruise ships, and how can they be addressed?

Entertainment Managers on cruise ships often juggle a fast-paced schedule, coordinating diverse activities and performances while adapting to changing itineraries and guest preferences. Challenges can include managing last-minute changes to the entertainment lineup, ensuring smooth communication between international staff, and maintaining high energy throughout long voyages. Success in this role often relies on strong organizational skills, flexibility, and the ability to foster a positive team environment to keep both staff and guests engaged. Regular feedback, ongoing training, and open communication with both crew and guests can help address these challenges effectively.

What does an entertainment manager do on a cruise ship?

An Entertainment Manager on a cruise ship is responsible for overseeing all entertainment activities and programs on board. This includes planning, scheduling, and coordinating performances, events, and recreational activities for guests of all ages. They manage entertainment staff, work with performers and production teams, and ensure that all events run smoothly and meet guest expectations. Their goal is to create a fun and engaging atmosphere throughout the cruise. The role requires strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.

What is the difference between Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship vs Cruise Director?

AspectEntertainment Manager Cruise ShipCruise Director
Primary RoleOversees entertainment programs, manages entertainment staff, and coordinates activities onboard.Manages overall guest entertainment, hosts events, and ensures guest satisfaction with onboard activities.
CredentialsExperience in entertainment management, hospitality, or event planning; relevant certifications may include hospitality or entertainment-related qualifications.Background in hospitality, event hosting, or entertainment; often requires hospitality or tourism certifications.
Work EnvironmentOnboard cruise ships, working closely with entertainment staff and crew.Onboard cruise ships, interacting directly with guests and coordinating entertainment activities.

While both roles operate onboard cruise ships and require hospitality or entertainment experience, the Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship focuses on managing entertainment staff and programs, whereas the Cruise Director handles guest interactions and overall entertainment experiences. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path in the cruise industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entertainment manager on a cruise ship?

To excel as an Entertainment Manager on a cruise ship, you need experience in event planning, performance coordination, and hospitality management, often supported by a relevant degree or background in entertainment or tourism. Familiarity with audio-visual equipment, scheduling software, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong leadership, adaptability, and excellent interpersonal skills help you engage diverse guests and manage a multicultural team. These competencies ensure smooth operations, high guest satisfaction, and memorable onboard experiences.
More about Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship jobs
What cities are hiring for Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship jobs? Cities with the most Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship job openings:
What states have the most Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship jobs? States with the most job openings for Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,351 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

The Cruise Ship Excursion Manager is ultimately responsible for daily operations of Cruise Ship Excursions executed by RED Hospitality and Leisure. The scope of responsibility will include, but is not limited to the effective delivery of guests from the various cruise lines to charter catamarans and ferry vessels. This position will oversee a large revenue center for the business and must operate independently. Additionally this position will communicate with shipboard shore excursions teams and pass along information to captains and shoreside team members. 

OPERATIONAL DUTIES

  • Review FareHarbor for updated counts per tour prior dates

  • Liaise with revenue management colleagues to ensure accuracy of upcoming tour information in FareHarbor

  • Communicate with St. John vendors regarding tour counts and operational timelines via WhatsApp group

  • Prepare run-of-show plan for each call month and update it prior to the call

  • Request updated manifests from shipboard Shorex teams and disseminate to captains via WhatsApp group

  • Collect tickets from crew members and ferry guides, reconcile numbers against FareHarbor, and communicate final counts to captains to verify accuracy.

  • Facilitate invoice sign-off from Shorex Team members, including denoting empty seat rates and guaranteed minimums

  • Assist in facilitating Catamaran tours by liaising with captains and crew, stepping in to greet and guide guests in the event that catamarans are delayed.

  • Act as STJ Ferry Guide, escorting guests from pickup at the cruise ship dock in STT to STJ Trunk Bay (or other tours) ensuring guest satisfaction, safety, and adherence to the schedule.

  • Utilize P-card to submit payments for National Park entry and vendors, ensuring accurate billing by tracking adults vs. children and maintaining financial targets.

  • Reconcile STJ Vendors in daily vendor closeout sheet, including but not limited to taxis, national park concessioners, and third party tour guides.

  • Supervise Cruise Ship Excursion guides to ensure adherence to the expectations for exemplary guest service. 

  • Schedule self and team in alignment with labor budget goals.

  • Ensure that STJ day-of operations run smoothly, including direct communications with STJ taxi vendors.

  • In conjunction with the St. Thomas Charter Operations Manager, oversees guest service, retail, food and beverage, and cleanliness standards for the ferry. This includes scheduling and planning with the Lead Captain and first mate.

  • Maintain awareness of Coast Guard regulations related to receiving and organizing manifests for vessel captains executing excursions.

SAFETY OPERATIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Obtain and maintain active CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications

  • Communicate any guest safety concerns or injuries to DSO

  • Accompany any injured guest, should they be transferred to a medical facility

TRAINING and RECRUITING

  • Recruit team members to uphold daily operations to the standards of the organization.

  • Create, maintain, and enforce daily duty sheets

  • Modify and consistently update training packets and check-off lists to team.

  • Train team members according to operational standards

  • Initiate training packets and sign-offs.

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • 5+  years of experience in customer service, hospitality, marine operations, or transportation logistics.

  • Strong understanding of business operations

  • Outgoing, clear, and fun personality

  • Approachable, helpful, and enthusiastic demeanor.

  • Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to draft business letters, develop reports, deliver presentations, create policies and procedures, and write repair specifications.

  • Understanding of individual roles, interactions, and responsibilities of employees, including knowledge of all aspects of performance management.

  • Strong technical abilities, with proficiency in both G-Suite and Microsoft Office.

  • Ability to prioritize, organize and follow up on a high volume of guest and management requests.

  • Ability to stand, kneel, and/or engage in physical activity for extended periods of time, including lifting moderate to heavy items.

  • Ability to operate a high-volume business independently while maintaining the highest standards of integrity. 

  • Be available to work any shift as needed by the demands of the cruise ship business, this includes but is not limited to nights, weekends, and early mornings.