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Expedition Cruise Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Expedition Leader

Olympia, WA

Expedition Leader: Research Scientist/Engineer 3 (RSE 3) The School of Oceanography has an ... cruises and assist other scientific and technical teams using shared shipboard systems, including ...

Alaska Mountain Guides

Administrative Assistant

Skagway, AK · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

... cruise ship correspondence, dock representation and ensuring that guides complete their jobs and ... tours, expedition sales, assisting Skagway office. JOB DUTIES Reports to Skagway Office Manager ...

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Expedition Cruise Ship information

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$100.7K

$169K

How much do expedition cruise ship jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for expedition cruise ship in the United States is $100,705.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an expedition cruise ship?

An expedition cruise ship job involves working on a smaller, adventure-focused cruise vessel that operates in remote destinations like the Arctic, Antarctica, or the Galápagos. Crew members serve in various roles, including hospitality, guiding excursions, navigation, and maintenance. Unlike traditional cruise ships, expeditions emphasize exploration, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences. Employees must be adaptable, customer-service oriented, and often have specialized skills such as wilderness guiding or marine biology. These jobs offer unique travel experiences and the opportunity to work in breathtaking natural environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an expedition cruise ship position?

To thrive on an Expedition Cruise Ship, you need strong knowledge of maritime operations, safety protocols, and expedition logistics, often supported by certifications such as STCW and crowd management training. Familiarity with navigation and communication systems, environmental compliance tools, and Zodiac or small-boat handling is typically required. Excellent teamwork, customer service, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity help crew members stand out in this dynamic environment. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, enriching passenger experiences while navigating challenging and remote destinations.

What are some challenges unique to working on an expedition cruise ship compared to traditional cruise ships?

Working on an Expedition Cruise Ship often involves traveling to remote and environmentally sensitive locations, which can require quick adaptation to changing weather and sea conditions. Crew members may be involved in guiding shore excursions, wildlife observations, and operating Zodiac boats, often requiring extended hours and physical activity. The team is usually smaller and tightly-knit, leading to greater individual responsibility and a collaborative work environment. These factors contribute to an exciting, hands-on role for those who enjoy adventure and are willing to go beyond standard cruise ship duties.

More about Expedition Cruise Ship jobs

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

The most popular types of Expedition Cruise Ship jobs are:

What states have the most Expedition Cruise Ship jobs?

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

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

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

Expedition Cruise Ship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Expedition Cruise Ship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 84% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,705 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

2027 Zodiac Captains, Lecturers & Naturalists

Land and Sea

Ketchikan, AK • On-site

Temporary

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Get Ready to Go Beyond with Land & Sea
Grounded in our core values-integrity, a strong work ethic, and meaningful relationships-Land & Sea operates internationally across 11+ locations with 8 trusted partners, focusing on three key segments: Marine, Destinations, and Advisory.
We excel in delivering through contract services, driving value for clients and partners, and setting new industry standards-with a proven team dedicated to execution.
2027 Résumé Depository - USCG-Licensed Zodiac Captains, Lecturers & Naturalists
Season: May through September 2027 | Location: Alaska
Land & Sea is accepting résumés for anticipated 2027 seasonal opportunities supporting expedition cruise ship operations.
We are seeking experienced USCG-licensed Zodiac Captains, Lecturers, and Naturalists who are passionate about the sea, education, and creating exceptional guest experiences.
Responsibilities
  • Safely operate Zodiacs and other small boats.
  • Provide engaging interpretation aboard ship, in Zodiacs, and ashore.
  • Share regional, environmental, and wildlife knowledge with guests.
  • Support the Expedition Leader and collaborate with the Expedition Team.
  • Assist with other expedition duties as needed.

Qualifications
  • Valid USCG license with Near Coastal credentials. Inland credentials may be considered for select voyages.
  • Current STCW certification - only required for some locations
  • Valid TWIC card or ability to obtain one before the start date.
  • Valid Norwegian medical certificate or ability to obtain one before the start date.
  • Valid passport that will not expire within six months of the anticipated contract end date.
  • Zodiac or small-boat operating experience.
  • Strong public-speaking and guest-engagement skills.
  • Relevant lecturing, naturalist, guiding, or expedition experience.
  • Ability to work safely and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Alaska and luxury expedition cruise experience preferred.

Credential details, availability, and compensation expectations will be collected during the application process.
Submit your résumé to be considered as opportunities become available for the May-September 2027 season.
This is a résumé-depository posting and does not represent a specific current vacancy. Qualified applicants may be contacted as seasonal staffing needs are confirmed.

Apply