1

Independent Contractor Cruise Ship Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Cruise Ship Excursion Manager is ultimately responsible for daily operations of Cruise Ship ... This position will oversee a large revenue center for the business and must operate independently.

$17/hr

The Cruise Ship Excursion Guide is ultimately responsible for guiding guests of Cruise Ship ... Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all persons contacted during ...

They embrace the challenge of being in the spotlight or working behind the scenes to deliver world ... Previous entertainment or guest activities experience in a four- or five-star cruise ship, hotel ...

They embrace the challenge of being in the spotlight or working behind the scenes to deliver world ... Previous entertainment or guest activities experience in a four- or five-star cruise ship, hotel ...

Cruise Director

Boston, MA · On-site

$70 - $120/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Rochester, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Annapolis, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Sandy, UT · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Washington, DC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

New York, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Bar Harbor, ME

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Washington, DC

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Saint Francisville, LA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

The Dalles, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Nantucket, MA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Clarksville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Cruise Director

Clarksville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Independent Contractor Cruise Ship Worker information

See salary details

$6

$27

$67

How much do independent contractor cruise ship worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor cruise ship worker in the United States is $27.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor cruise ship worker?

An Independent Contractor Cruise Ship Worker is a professional who provides services on a cruise ship without being a direct employee of the cruise line. These workers often include entertainers, fitness instructors, spa therapists, and other specialized service providers. They operate under a contract, managing their own taxes and business expenses while adhering to the cruise line's policies. Unlike regular crew members, they generally have more flexibility but may not receive the same benefits, such as healthcare or gratuities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor cruise ship worker?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Cruise Ship Worker, you need expertise in your specific trade or service (such as entertainment, maintenance, wellness, or hospitality), often supported by relevant certifications, licenses, or professional training. Familiarity with cruise ship operations, safety procedures, and industry-standard scheduling or communication systems is frequently required. Strong interpersonal skills, flexibility, and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and international guests are invaluable strengths. These qualities help ensure smooth operations, excellent guest experiences, and adaptability in a dynamic, fast-paced maritime environment.

What is the typical work schedule like for an independent contractor cruise ship worker?

As an Independent Contractor Cruise Ship Worker, your schedule can vary significantly depending on your specialty and the ship's itinerary. Many contractors work in shifts, which can include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays to accommodate the cruise schedule and passenger needs. While you may have more flexibility compared to direct employees, you are also expected to be adaptable and available when your services are required onboard. It's common for contractors to spend several weeks or months at sea, with occasional days off when the ship is in port. This unique schedule offers the chance to travel and experience diverse environments but also requires a strong commitment to the demands of shipboard life.

Do independent contractor cruise ship workers get free room and board?

Independent contractor cruise ship workers are typically responsible for their own accommodations and meals, as they are considered self-employed. However, some contracts or positions may include free or discounted room and board as part of the employment package, so it varies by employer and role. It is important to review the specific contract details before accepting a position.
More about Independent Contractor Cruise Ship Worker jobs

What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Cruise Ship Worker jobs?

Cities with the most Independent Contractor 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 Independent Contractor Cruise Ship Worker jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Cruise Ship Worker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 45% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,919 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 12 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.