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Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Providence, RI · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

The Dalles, OR · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Alpena, MI · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Nantucket, MA · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Alton, IL · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Washington, DC · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

New York, NY · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Bar Harbor, ME · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Mount Vernon, VA · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Boston, MA · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Friday Harbor, WA · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

The Dalles, OR

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Florence, AL · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Rochester, NY · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Annapolis, MD · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Sandy, UT · On-site

... 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 ...

American Cruise Lines

Cruise Director

Gulfport, MS · On-site

... 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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Showing results 21-40

All JobsEntertainment Cruise Ship JobsEntertainment Manager Cruise Ship Jobs

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 Sep 4, 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 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 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.

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 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.

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:

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

The top searched job categories for Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship jobs are:

Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entertainment Manager Cruise Ship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,351 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Cruise Director

American Cruise Lines

Providence, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment, and activity programs for guests.

  • Communicate with guests through various channels including daily programs, announcements, and social interactions.

  • Assist in coordinating and overseeing onboard events, activities, and guest interactions to enhance the guest experience.

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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