cruise director salary

Royal Caribbean Cruise Director Interview – Daily Duties, Salary, and Career Progression

If you have been on a cruise you have probably seen a member of staff called the Cruise Director on board.  You may be wondering who they are and what they do on board the ship.

To answer these questions I interviewed a cruise director who has worked on multiple Royal Caribbean ships and surveyed past cruisers about how the cruise director affects their cruise experience.

Both ocean and river cruises have Cruise Directors onboard. They are sometimes referred to as ‘Cruise Hosts’.

The cruise director is usually one of the most recognizable members of the cruise ship crew.

What is a Cruise Director?

A cruise director is a high-ranking member of the cruise line staff who oversees the entertainment and activities happening on a cruise ship.

The cruise director’s role is front-facing and the cruise director spends a lot of their day interacting with guests. 

I asked past cruisers in my Facebook group if they remember seeing a cruise director on their last cruise. 57% said yes they remember seeing them onboard.

The most common way to become a cruise director is by working within the entertainment teams onboard and progressing up to the role of director.

I interviewed a friend of mine, Daniel, on my YouTube channel.

Daniel has worked on multiple Royal Caribbean cruise ships as a cruise director. He had the following to say about his route into the role:

Cruise Director Interview

How did you become a cruise director.

I started as Cruise Director staff and then moved on to Activities Manager (which on Royal Caribbean is the Assistant Cruise Director.) I then stepped up to the Cruise Director Role.

If you do want to be a cruise director they always hire somebody who has experience living and working on a cruise ship.

All cruise director quotes in this post are taken from the following live stream:

Being a Cruise Director is a very demanding but rewarding job. The activities undertaken by the cruise director will vary dramatically day by day and will often require long working hours.

A Cruise Director’s Responsibilities Can Vary!

The photo above is of Cruise Director Adam onboard the Marella Discovery.

It was actually Adam who helped organise an event onboard where I shaved my head to raise money for charity

This isn’t something that’s a normal responsibility of a cruise director, but Adam put me at ease instantly and did a fabulous job!

I’m sure Adam would agree this was one of the stranger days he’s had at work….

To see the head shave, watch the video below:

What do Cruise Directors Do?

Cruise Directors host events, present theatre shows and are in charge of onboard announcements.

They also hold port talks and have many safety responsibilities.

A big part of the Cruise Director’s job is to be the friendly face of the cruise line. They often act as go-betweens, bridging the gap between guests and the cruise line itself.

When passengers have questions or need help the Cruise Director is often the person that they will ask.

Cruise Director Interview:

Is the cruise director in charge of the entire cruise.

Some people think the cruise director is in charge of everything but it’s a misleading title. The Cruise Director’s boss is the hotel director and they are the person who’s in charge of the overall cruise .

Cruise Directors Make Onboard Announcements

Cruise directors make announcements across the ship on a tannoy system.

I personally can’t think of anything worse than having to do this, I used to work in a supermarket where I lived in constant fear of having to make a tannoy announcement.

That said, Cruise Directors are well-practiced in this skill.

The announcements can vary but common themes include:

• The Cruise Director may let the guests know when the ship is expected to arrive and when they will be able to disembark.
• On occasion, the Cruise Director may also let guests know about the weather and conditions in the port.
• It is the job of the Cruise Director to read out the schedule of daily events.
• A typical Cruise Director’s announcement may say something like ‘Tonight we have trivia in the lounge at 4 pm, live music by the pool at 5 pm, and a welcome drink with the captain at 7 pm.’
• The Captain may also make announcements on the ship’s tannoy.

Cruise Directors Host Onboard Events

Events around the ship may be hosted by the Cruise Director or another member of the entertainment team.

On some larger ships, there may be an Assistant Cruise Director, who is the Cruise Director’s second in command.

Cruise Directors do spend a lot of their time socialising with passengers, it’s part of the job!

Do You Spend a Lot of Time Talking to Guests?

A huge part of the job is talking to the passengers and it’s hard to find enough time for it because people usually want to see the Cruise Director and want to talk to them and chat.

You want to talk to as many people as possible, but you also need to get the rest of the work done and so sometimes you have to think really hard about when you do your other work.

Theatre Shows Are Hosted by The Cruise Director 

The Cruise Director will usually host the evening’s entertainment in the theatre. Pre-show they will come out onto the stage and introduce the show.

This is particularly impressive if you are cruising on a cruise line where multiple languages are spoken. On cruises with MSC and Costa, the Cruise Director will often do the introductory speech in 6 or 7 languages.

I am continually impressed by people who speak multiple languages, I only speak English – and I still struggle with that sometimes!

I took a cruise onboard the Costa Smeralda and only 4% of the guests spoke English. The Cruise Director spoke multiple different languages. Find out how I got on on that cruise here:

Cruise Directors Host Other Events

Other events that may be hosted by the Cruise Director include things like trivia, game shows, and parties.

The cruise director will usually host a Q&A with the captain if the ship has one, if there are any celebrities on board they’ll also host the Q&A with them.

There is a common misconception that the majority of a Cruise Director’s job is mostly interacting with the passengers.

Is Your Role Mostly Interacting With Passengers?

The front-of-house side of the job is such a small part of the role. Take the theatre shows for example. You’re on the theatre stage for either 30 seconds or 10 minutes depending on how much you talk and then you go off stage. You do loads of other stuff whilst the show’s happening and you come back at the end of the show.

It May Be The Cruise Director Who Hosts Port Talks

On some cruise lines, the Cruise Director will be responsible for providing information about the ports of call.

On a river cruise line, this is almost always the job of the Cruise Director.

Ocean cruises work slightly differently as they may have a member of the excursions team or a local guide speaking about the destinations you will visit. On occasion, you will find the Cruise Director doing this.

Cruise Directors are Responsible For Safety and Security

The Cruise Director has a big role to play when it comes to safety and security.

They need to be constantly kept up to date with regulations and rules so the job includes quite a few meetings!

The priority of all cruise lines is to keep the guests safe. All crew members are responsible for playing different roles in any emergency, and the Cruise Director is no different.

Cruise Directors Spend a Lot of Time Planning Pre-cruise

Cruise Directors are in charge of a large team and are therefore responsible for organising and planning upcoming events.

What Behind The Scenes Preparation Do You Make For a Cruise?

We plan the cruises about a month before. There’s still flexibility to change things but we have a nice structure so we know roughly what is happening and what people need to prepare for. For example, big events in America – like the Super Bowl require a lot of pre-planning.

Are There Cruise Directors on River Cruise Ships?

On most river cruise lines you will find a person who has a role similar to that of a Cruise Director. They’re not always called a ‘Cruise Director’ but will usually perform similar tasks.

On a river cruise, the Cruise Director may be supported by a small entertainment team or 1 or 2 other staff members.

Cruise Directors on river cruises will oversee the entire cruise operation and will be available to answer passengers’ questions at almost any time.

Unlike ocean ships, there aren’t really any staff areas on river cruise ships, which means that the Cruise Director is almost always available to passengers.

How do You Become a Cruise Director?

To become a Cruise Director most crew members start working at sea as a member of the entertainment team then work their way up to Assistant Cruise Director, then Cruise Director.

A person must have experience working at sea before becoming a Cruise Director. 

Working in industries such as hospitality, tourism, business, and management is also useful.

Some Cruise Directors will come from land-based jobs in hotels/restaurants before transferring into the cruise industry.

Cruise Directors work long hours and are away from home for months at a time so any potential Cruise Directors must be used to this way of life.

This is the reason why most Cruise Directors are recruited from within the cruise line.

What Skills do you Need to Become a Cruise Director?

Cruise directors have to be outgoing, fun-loving and have great organisational skills. They must have great communication skills and be happy to talk to guests all day, every day.

Organisation is a big part of being a cruise director, great time management skills are a must.

Cruise Directors must also be adaptable to the situation at sea can change with very little notice.

Unexpected sea days are one thing that cruise directors have to be prepared for .

The Cruise Director May Also Be An Entertainer

On smaller cruise lines, like Azamara, the Cruise Director may be part of the entertainment team too.

When I recently sailed the cruise director had her own singing show. She was very good!

When I sailed on Azamara Onward, during one show the cruise director Eric SKATED around the dance floor in a sparkly dress – Yes, you read that right!

Find out more about that in the video below:

How do You Deal with Unexpected Sea Days?

I always made sure I had an emergency day planned out because we wouldn’t find out about an emergency sea day until maybe three hours before the guests did.

Problem-solving skills are also important as the cruise director is often responsible for implementing a ‘plan B’ when things don’t go to plan.

As a result, staying calm in stressful situations is important.

Getting a job as a cruise director is hard and competitive.

Once a person has a job as a Cruise Director they’ll usually work on different ships within the cruise line.

They may complete a contract on the Marella Discovery , then move to the Marella Explorer for example.

Some Cruise Directors may also change the company once they have been in the role for a while.

A cruise director must be able to function and thrive on a small amount of sleep (I wouldn’t be much good at this one!)

How Much Sleep Do You Get Per Night as a Cruise Director?

Sometimes you’re up really early in the morning, sometimes you’re up really late at night. Most of the officers actually have a nap in the afternoon, we call it “International Nap Time. “

If you call a senior officer in International Nap Time it better be an emergency because they really want their sleep. I never really went in for International Nap Time, because if I nap in the afternoon I don’t wake up again. So I would say about five to six hours sleep on average.

How Much Do Cruise Directors Make on Average?

The average cruise director earns between $56K and $70K per year.

The amount depends on experience. The cruise line they work for also affects how much a Cruise Director will earn.

Cruise Directors don’t have to pay for accommodation or meals onboard so they get to keep the majority of the money they make.

What Other Perks Do Cruise Directors Receive?

In addition to salary, Cruise Directors receive a number of other perks:

• Accommodation on the ship free of charge
• Meals onboard
• (Usually) transport home and to the ship
• Discounts, often on cruises and/or shops onboard

Cruise Directors live onboard during their contract so are usually able to save quite a high percentage of their salary.

I have met a couple of crew members who work onboard while saving money for a house deposit or other expenses. Many crew members also send home their salaries to support their famil ies

Before You Go

Find out more about the cruise ship’s very important Housekeeping team in the article below:

Cruise Ship Housekeeping: Responsibilities, Salaries and Benefits

Get an insider crew tour of the ship’s lifeboats in the article below:

Inside a Cruise Ship Lifeboat (Crew Tour) – Emergency Food, Engine, Seating Plan and More

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

Ever wondered how the mainstream cruise lines compare? Cruise lines won’t tell you this, but I will.

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Cruise Director Salary in Florida

How much does a Cruise Director make in Florida? The average Cruise Director salary in Florida is $61,431 as of June 27, 2024, but the range typically falls between $54,731 and $68,338 . Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.

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What is a Cruise Director?

A Cruise Director is a high-ranking or senior officer of a cruise ship with responsibility for all onboard hospitality, entertainment and social events, who acts as the public face of the company. The Cruise Director reports to the hotel director, has a deputy or assistant Cruise Director , and is supported by a team of entertainment staff. [unreliable source?] Responsibilities of a Cruise Director may include: Scheduling of entertainment, activities and social events Officer in charge of entertainment staff Public announcements Conducting and supervising safety briefings or drills for bot...

Source: Wikipedia (as of 09/06/2019). Read more from Wikipedia

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What Does a Cruise Director Do?

Find out what a Cruise Director does, how to get this job, salary information, and what it takes to succeed as a Cruise Director.

The Cruise Director plays an integral role in enhancing the onboard experience for passengers, orchestrating a wide array of entertainment and activities designed to cater to diverse interests and age groups. This position involves a dynamic blend of leadership and creativity, as the individual is tasked with ensuring guests enjoy a memorable vacation by providing a balanced mix of relaxation, fun, and cultural enrichment. By coordinating with various departments, the Cruise Director ensures the smooth execution of events and programs, while also serving as a visible and approachable figure for passengers seeking information or assistance. This role requires a unique combination of organizational skills, enthusiasm, and the ability to engage with people from all walks of life, making it essential for creating a positive and enjoyable cruise atmosphere.

Cruise Director Job Duties

• Plan, schedule, and oversee all onboard entertainment and activities, ensuring a wide variety of options to cater to all age groups and interests.
• Serve as the public face of the ship’s crew, hosting events, making announcements, and ensuring guests feel welcomed and informed.
• Coordinate with the culinary team to plan and execute special dining events, themed nights, and culinary demonstrations to enhance the guest experience.
• Manage and mentor the entertainment team, including performers, activity coordinators, and technical staff, ensuring high-quality performances and activities.
• Oversee the budget for onboard entertainment and activities, ensuring all events are cost-effective while still providing exceptional value and enjoyment for guests.
• Liaise with shore excursion providers to ensure a seamless integration of onshore and onboard experiences, enhancing guests’ overall cruise experience.
• Handle guest complaints and feedback related to entertainment and activities, making adjustments as necessary to meet and exceed guest expectations.
• Develop and implement emergency procedures for large gatherings and events onboard, ensuring the safety and security of guests during all entertainment and activities.

Cruise Director Salary & Outlook

A Cruise Director’s salary is influenced by the size and prestige of the cruise line, years of experience in hospitality or entertainment, and specific skills such as multilingual capabilities and digital media proficiency. Additionally, the ability to manage large teams and create innovative guest experiences can significantly impact earnings.

• Median Annual Salary: $80,325 ($38.62/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $165,000 ($79.33/hour)

The employment of cruise directors is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade.

This growth is driven by the booming cruise industry, which demands more skilled Cruise Directors to enhance guest experiences, manage onboard entertainment, and ensure passenger satisfaction. Their role in creating memorable vacations is critical as cruise lines expand their fleets and destinations to meet increasing consumer demand for unique travel experiences.

Cruise Director Job Requirements

Education: A Cruise Director typically has diverse educational backgrounds, with many having completed some college courses, often in hospitality, tourism, or event management. High school diploma holders can advance with relevant coursework. Bachelor’s and Associate’s degrees in fields like communications, business administration, or entertainment management are also common, equipping candidates with essential organizational, leadership, and customer service skills necessary for the role. Education in these areas prepares individuals for the multifaceted responsibilities of coordinating onboard activities and guest entertainment.

Experience: Cruise Directors often come from diverse backgrounds, with a significant portion having less than a year of experience in related fields. Many start with no specific experience, learning through on-the-job training and company-provided training programs. Experience in hospitality, entertainment, or customer service is highly valued, offering a solid foundation for the role. Onboarding often includes comprehensive training in safety, customer engagement, and event management, equipping new hires with the skills needed for success in creating memorable guest experiences. Continuous professional development is encouraged, with opportunities for advancement and skill enhancement.

Certifications & Licenses: Cruise Director positions typically do not have specific certification or license requirements. However, certifications in hospitality management, event planning, or related fields can be beneficial. Some cruise lines may prefer or require CPR and First Aid certification. Additionally, a Personal Survival Techniques (PST) certificate, part of the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers), is sometimes needed for safety compliance.

Cruise Director Skills

Event Planning: A Cruise Director’s role involves creating engaging, varied events that appeal to the broad spectrum of cruise guests’ interests and demographics. Knowledge of entertainment, precise scheduling, and strategies for guest engagement are paramount. Events must be woven into the cruise itinerary to ensure smooth transitions between activities, optimizing guest satisfaction and participation.

Public Speaking: Captivating a diverse audience is a core skill, requiring the ability to blend humor, information, and entertainment. Effective public speaking involves understanding audience dynamics and the agility to tailor messages to suit different cultural backgrounds and age groups, making every announcement and activity briefing enjoyable for everyone on board.

Guest Relations: Addressing passenger concerns and inquiries promptly and positively is critical. Utilizing strong communication and problem-solving skills ensures that every guest feels valued and enjoys a seamless cruising experience.

Entertainment Scheduling: A detailed eye and the ability to balance guest interests with available resources are necessary for arranging a continuous flow of onboard entertainment. Allocating venues, managing performer schedules, and adapting to unexpected changes are all part of ensuring a lively and uninterrupted entertainment experience.

Crisis Management: In emergencies, coordinating with the ship’s captain and crew to ensure passenger safety is imperative. The role demands quick assessment of situations, informed decision-making, and precise execution of procedures, all while maintaining a calm demeanor to reassure both guests and staff.

Multicultural Awareness: Catering to the diverse cultural backgrounds of guests is essential, ensuring activities, entertainment, and announcements are inclusive and respectful. A deep understanding of global customs and traditions is required to foster a welcoming environment, promoting a sense of community among the wide array of cultures onboard.

Cruise Director Work Environment

A Cruise Director operates in a dynamic, floating environment, where the ocean and ports of call provide a constantly changing backdrop. Their workspace extends beyond a traditional office, encompassing the entire ship—from the sun decks to the theaters, ensuring they’re always on the move. Equipped with a blend of traditional tools like microphones and modern technology such as tablets for scheduling, they adeptly manage a broad spectrum of activities.

Work hours for a Cruise Director are unconventional, blending early mornings and late evenings, mirroring the ship’s round-the-clock buzz of activities. Dress code varies, from formal attire during evening events to more casual wear during the day. The role demands high interaction levels, requiring excellent communication skills as they engage with guests and coordinate with the crew.

The social environment is vibrant, fostering connections with people from diverse backgrounds. Despite the demanding pace, the opportunity to travel extensively and the unique workplace setting make it a distinctive career path.

Advancement Prospects

A Cruise Director can ascend to higher managerial roles within the cruise line, such as Fleet Director, overseeing multiple ships’ entertainment and activities. Progression often involves demonstrating exceptional leadership, creativity, and guest satisfaction.

To achieve advancement, a Cruise Director should excel in creating innovative programs and show strong financial management skills, ensuring activities are both popular and cost-effective. Experience with diverse cultures and languages is advantageous, reflecting the global nature of cruising.

Success in this role can also open opportunities in corporate offices, focusing on entertainment and program development across the fleet. Building a reputation for enhancing guest experiences and operational efficiency is key.

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Cruise Director Salary, Duties, Education, and Background

Want to learn about the cruise director salary, duties, and required background? If so, you’ve landed in the right place! Cruise directors are some of the most important people who work for a cruise line. Maybe you’re boarding the best cruise line for families. Or, perhaps you're sailing out of a local port. Either way, the director heavily contributes to the whole customer experience . 

For example, the cruise director may oversee cruise ship food service or request updates for the cruise booking software . Though these are two specific examples, it just goes to show how much they’re involved in. Now, read on to learn everything there is to know about the role!

Cruise Director Salary 

So how much does a cruise director make? That’s a great question that can vary depending on a number of factors. 

To put it simply, the cruise director salary can range from $56,000 to $70,000 a year. Some might argue that this doesn’t seem like enough considering how taxing the position can be. However, bear in mind that there are many luxuries that come with this career path. 

While working as a cruise director, those filling the role can leverage all the perks and amenities that are available to passengers. That’s right–even in room dining and entertainment features! Plus, they’re usually contracted to only work a set number of months in a row. So, it’s not a demanding job all year round.

Cruise Director Duties 

The cruise director might be one of the busiest people on the ship. They’re always on the go, and have their hands in a number of different departments. If you’re hoping to work in the cruise industry or want to change roles, there’s a lot to prepare for. 

Duties can potentially change depending on each individual cruise line. But typically, the core responsibilities usually include the following:

• Work with the captain and port cities to arrange travel dates. 
• Attend entertainment and social events on the cruise. 
• Contribute to the many high tech cruise ship innovations.
• Implement attractive qualities of luxury lifestyle brands . 
• Make sure that all the passengers feel a sense of customer satisfaction .
• Help craft the cruise ship food menu and drink selections.
• Coordinate shows at the on-ship theaters and live music venues .
• Arrange excursions with travel companies for each port stop.
• Ensure that clerical work on the backend is running smoothly. 

Now that you know the core responsibilities of the cruise director role, let’s learn about key qualifications. Keep reading for all the details!

Cruise Director Education 

Cruise directors should have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Such areas of study may include communications, business, or hospitality studies. Regardless of their main focus, they should have pursued some curriculum in hospitality-related subject matter. This is for a couple of reasons.

The cruise industry is such a niche market within the hospitality industry . With this in mind, it’s vital that every cruise director understands the nature of the sector. Plus, it's important to have the ability to work with numerous groups of people. From knowledge of international policies to foreign language proficiency, ideal candidates have a unique profile.

Cruise Director Background

It’s not uncommon to find out that many cruise directors got their start in the entertainment or hotel industry . Due to the time they spend and such activities on the ship, this kind of experience is almost always part of their extensive resumes. 

On the entertainment side, it’s common for cruise directors to have talents when it comes to stand up comedy and theater. For those who come from the hotel industry, a background in event management or reservation operations are popular departments of their past. This is because all these elements exist on cruises. It just depends on the department, of course. 

Though it doesn't tie directly to the entertainment sector, there are some cases where a ship’s cruise director comes from the restaurant industry . After all, becoming the best cruise line for food is one of the industry’s most coveted accolades. Maybe the person filling this role wants to direct a cruise line with organic food only . Or, maybe they want it to be one with eco-friendly restaurants . No matter what, these candidates will have the knowledge to do so. 

Now that we got industries out of the way, let’s discuss past roles and responsibilities. As you can probably guess, it’s vital that cruise directors can successfully manage a large team. But there’s more to it. 

Not only does a cruise ship have numerous departments, but a large staff within each of them. With this in mind, directors should have experience with seamless communication across extensive teams and hierarchies. 

It’s just as important for the people filling these roles to have expertise when it comes to international travel and policies. Much of their job will revolve around excursions, port stops, and sailing the globe. With this said, having at least conversational proficiency in multiple languages is a major bonus. That’s why past roles in the hotel and resort sector can be beneficial once aboard a cruise liner. 

Lastly, an understanding of the many working parts of a cruise ship is essential. Though it seems kind of obvious, it’s surprising when you see the number of aspects that are constantly in motion on major cruise lines. In fact, that’s why so many cruise lines hire from within. Various cruise directors have an extensive career working on ships, which makes them the most qualified candidates. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cruise Director Salary

Working as a cruise director has numerous perks. However, it also entails countless hours of hard work. After all, how else could the cruise director salary and benefits be so decent? Whether you’re looking to recruit for a luxury cruise line or are hoping to expand your career, we’re about to cover a brief overview. From learning about the cruise director salary to the difficulty of obtaining this position, check out the following FAQ section.

How Much Do Cruise Directors Get Paid?

The cruise director salary ranges anywhere from $56,000 to $70,000 per year. Of course, there can be fluctuations due to experience, inflation, raises, and bonuses. However, this is where most salaries fall between.

Is It Hard to Become a Cruise Director?

Yes, it can be quite a challenge to become a cruise director and obtain the higher end of the cruise director salary range. This is for a number of reasons. For one, there are many specific requirements that are a must, such as knowing a foreign language. Plus, there’s a very limited number of positions available within each cruise line company. 

What Does It Take to Become a Cruise Director?

To become a cruise director, you need a solid mix of skills, education, and experience. Strong managerial skills, a love for different cultures, and fluency in multiple languages are ideal. It's also beneficial if the person filling this role has experience in customer service and conflict resolution. And most of all, a passion for world travel is a must. 

Who Gets the Highest Salary On a Cruise Ship?

The executive chef makes the highest salary on a cruise ship. In fact, the executive chef salary is even higher than the cruise director salary. Though it’s quite a range, they can make anywhere from $4,800 to $7,800 a month. These figures come out to $57,600 to $93,600 a year. However, due to extensive times away from home, cruise line chefs may not work straight through the year. 

How Many Hours a Day Does a Cruise Director Work?

Cruise directors can work extensive shifts, typically upward to 16 hours. In addition to grueling hours, it’s common for cruise directors to be away from home for about six months at a time. Despite the unusual requirements, they do get to enjoy many of the perks that passengers have access to. This includes everything from food to entertainment.

Can’t Set Sail Without the Cruise Director

Cruise ship management processes would not be possible without the cruise director. They have so many core responsibilities on their plate, that it would be nearly impossible to be efficient without their supervision. It’s no wonder that the cruise director salary is so high! From lengthy shifts to managing a large labor force , smooth sailing requires their full attention and dedication.

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Cruise Director Jobs

The cruise director is in charge of cruise ship entertainment and staff members. Although, being a cruise director is much more complex than just running the entertainment department, this small description is a good way to describe a crucial job onboard the ship.

The following are just a few of the responsibilities of a cruise director working onboard a major cruise line.

Cruise directors organize entertainment, put together shows, perform, attend other cruise performances and rehearsals and work with choreographers and entertainers. They oversee the development of entertainment programs and ensure that all aspects of cruise ship entertainment (including lectures) go smoothly. This includes a variety of tasks like working directly with AV crews and managers to ensure lighting, sound and any technological aspects are ready for the ship’s performances. Their responsibilities also include some administration work, which can entail budgets, billing and scheduling. Cruise directors are often considered the face of the cruise ship’s entertainment and directors are almost always present at social functions onboard. Needless to say, the cruise director is a social and outgoing person.

Job Requirements

It is very unlikely that a cruise director would be hired without any previous work experience on a cruise ship as they most commonly work their way up from other entertainment or activity staff positions onboard. Cruise directors often start out as assistant directors, a position that primes them for the responsibilities and work schedules of a cruise director.

While each cruise line looks for different qualities in an entertainment director, they are all: talented, outgoing, social people, with experience in entertainment. The best way to learn about becoming a cruise ship director is to begin working on a ship as an entertainer, assistant cruise director or activity staff member.

The cruise director is among the most visible aboard the ship. While salaries vary depending on the cruise line and experience, not only do cruise directors have a great deal of responsibility and fun, but they can also earn thousands of dollars a month for their hard work. A cruise director salary might be anywhere from $3,000 – $7,000 a month.  Not bad if you love the limelight, people, and a good margarita after a long day.

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• Cruise Director

Carnival Cruise Lines Cruise Director Salaries - Browse Average Salaries by Location

Updated July 22, 2024

What is the average salary of Carnival Cruise Lines Cruise Director?

Carnival Cruise Lines Cruise Directors earn $60,000 annually , or $29 per hour, which is equal to the national average for all Cruise Directors at $60,000 annually and 10% lower than the national salary average for ​all working Americans.

$60K Carnival Cruise Lines Cruise Director without location (4 salaries)

What is the salary for cruise director at carnival cruise lines.

The salary for Cruise Director at Carnival Cruise Lines is $68,000 annually.

What company pays the highest salary for the Cruise Director position?

Carnival Cruise Lines pays the highest salary for the Cruise Director position at $60,000 annually.

What company pays the lowest salary for the Cruise Director position?

Carnival Cruise Lines pays the lowest salary for the Cruise Director position at $60,000 annually.

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Location Select Manila Miami Miramar

Work Style Select Hybrid Onsite Remote

BCP Director

Company overview.

At Carnival Cruise Line, our mission is to create safe, fun, and memorable vacations at a great value. As a valued member of our team, you'll actively contribute to developing exceptional travel experiences and unforgettable moments, every single day. Your Carnival journey begins here!

Our Culture Essentials

Joining the Carnival team means embracing our six Culture Essentials, which are the cornerstone values shaping our identity, principles, and actions. These beliefs and behaviors not only define who we are but also unite us as a team, guiding us in decision-making, fostering relationships, tackling challenges, and reaching milestones. These culture essentials propel us toward a shared vision of success, ensuring a collective effort in shaping our future.

• Respect & Protect
• Listen & Learn
• Communicate

Responsibilities

Job description.

The Director, Business Continuity Planning and Disaster Recovery will provide strategic direction and leadership in designing, maintaining, and executing our business continuity and disaster recovery plans and procedures. The role will manage a team that ensures business continuity in the event of a disaster, minimize downtime during incidents, and guide recovery activities. This position will be instrumental in safeguarding our critical systems and data and maintaining service to our customers and partners.

Job Functions:

• Develop, implement, and maintain policies, procedures, and programs for disaster recovery and business continuity based on industry best practices.
• Provide day to day leadership, training, and guidance to the team and stakeholders on disaster recovery and business continuity processes and procedures.
• Oversee disaster recovery testing and make enhancements to ensure recovery strategies remain up-to-date and effective.
• Manage and coordinate crisis and incident management processes, including response and communication, during and after business disruptions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand critical business processes and ensure that disaster recovery and business continuity plans align with business needs.
• Conduct business impact analysis and risk assessments, identifying potential vulnerabilities and proposing mitigation strategies.
• Prepare and deliver regular reports to senior management on the status of disaster recovery and business continuity plans and readiness.
• Establish relationships with external partners and vendors to support recovery solutions.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards related to disaster recovery and business continuity.

Required for all Jobs:

• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications:

• Education:  Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems or related field required. Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems or related field preferred.
• Work Experience:  10+ years’ experience in IT business continuity and disaster recovery.  7+ years with at least 5 years in a leadership role required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Proven experience in developing, testing, and maintaining disaster recovery and business continuity plans.
• Strong understanding of IT infrastructure, systems, and applications, and how they relate to business processes.
• Excellent knowledge of risk management and business impact analysis. 
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage crises effectively. 
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to articulate complex concepts to a variety of audiences. 
• Excellent analytical, strategic conceptual thinking, strategic planning and execution skills.
• Must be detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and able to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Licenses & Certifications:

• Certified Business Continuity Planner upon hire required.
• Disaster Recovery Certified Specialist upon hire required.

Physical Demands :  Must be able to remain in a stationary position at a desk and/or computer for extended periods of time.  Requires regular movement throughout CCL facilities. 

Travel:   Less than 25% with shore-based travel likely.

Work Conditions:   Work primarily in a climate-controlled environment with minimal safety/health hazard potential.

The range for this role’s salary $120,800-$185,000.  Offers to the selected candidates will be made on a fair and equitable basis, taking into account specific job-related skills and experience. 

At Carnival, your total rewards package is much more than your base salary. All non-sales roles participate in an annual cash bonus program, while sales roles have an incentive plan. Director and above roles may also be eligible to participate in Carnival’s discretionary equity incentive plan. Plus, Carnival provides comprehensive and innovative benefits to meet your needs, including:

• Cost-effective medical, dental and vision plans
• Employee Assistance Program and other mental health resources
• Additional programs include company paid term life insurance and disability coverage
• 401(k) plan that includes a company match
• Employee Stock Purchase plan
• Holidays – All full-time and part-time with benefits employees receive days off for 7 company-wide holidays, plus an additional floating holiday to be taken at the employee’s discretion.
• Vacation Time – All full-time employees at the manager and below level start with 14 days/year; director and above level start with 19 days/year.  Part-time with benefits employees receive time off based on the number of hours they work, with a minimum of 84 hours/year.  All employees gain additional vacation time with further tenure.
• Sick Time – All full-time employees receive 80 hours of sick time each year.  Part-time with benefits employees receive time off based on the number of hours they work, with a minimum of 60 hours each year. 
• Complementary stand-by cruises, employee discounts on confirmed cruises, plus special rates for family and friends
• Personal and professional learning and development resources including tuition reimbursement
• On-site preschool program, wellness center, and health clinic at our Miami campus

In addition to other duties/functions, this position requires full commitment and support for promoting ethical and compliant culture. More specifically, this position requires integrity, honesty, and respectful treatment of others, as well as a willingness to speak up when they see misconduct or have concerns.

Carnival Cruise Line is the most popular cruise brand in North America and operates a fleet of ships designed to foster exceptionally safe, fun and memorable vacation experiences at an outstanding value. Our employees have a responsibility to be accountable for all actions. We consider the environment in all aspects of our business and have a responsibility to put safety and sustainability first. We live and share a positive attitude which is based on fostering an environment of inclusion, trust, a willingness to listen, openness and integrity. Doing this helps us to achieve our ultimate goal, which is to include FUN in everything we do! Speaking of fun, we are officially certified as a Great Place to Work aboard our ships as well as in our global corporate headquarters!

Carnival Corporation & plc and Carnival Cruise Line is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. In this regard, it does not discriminate against any qualified individual on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, mental, physical orsensory disability, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, federal, and/or international law. 

Employee Benefits

Hybrid work environment.

Empowering work-life integration and flexible opportunities for your personal and career success

Wellness Programs

Comprehensive employer wellness programs featuring mental health support and fitness options, including an on-site gym

Cruise Benefits

An array of qualified complimentary and heavily discounted cruise options for the ultimate dream getaway

Parental Programs

Generous parental leave time and adoption assistance programs

Retirement Plan

Secure your future with our exceptional Traditional and Roth 401(k) options complemented by valuable company contributions

Employee Stock Purchase

Invest in tomorrow with the opportunity to purchase Carnival shares at a discounted rate from their fair market value

In addition to the above, we offer PTO and company holidays as well as a variety of medical, dental, and voluntary plans

In our virtual contact center, we're all about unlimited growth opportunities and creating a supportive, inclusive environment. We believe in fostering professional development and providing our team members with the tools and resources they need to excel in their roles. Our community values diversity, ensuring that everyone feels respected and supported in a welcoming atmosphere where personal and professional growth knows no limits. Above all, we're committed to delivering an exceptional guest experience, making customer satisfaction a top priority in everything we do.

I love the variety in my work at Carnival. Each day brings new challenges that require creative thinking. Collaborating with different team members on projects keeps things fresh and interesting, making every day unique and exciting. Moreover, being part of Carnival means being part of a culture that values initiative and fosters continuous improvement. This sense of empowerment fuels my passion for what I do and inspires me to strive for excellence every day.

Miguel Fleet Technical Document Center Manager Summit Seeker

Carnival is a great place to learn and grow.

Tyrone Lost Mail Clerk Chess Master

Carnival’s culture is fun, welcoming, vibrant, flexible, fast-paced, diverse, and innovative. Carnival welcomes guests from all over the world to sail on our ships. Our crew members are caring and make the guest experience awesome. The fun continues to connect shoreside where I have an opportunity to interact with employees from all levels of the organization to assist them with their HR questions. From the guest to shoreside experience, we embrace the FUN!

Annelys HR Services and Shoreside Immigration Supervisor Fitness Guru

Carnival has been instrumental in my personal growth by providing opportunities to step out of my comfort zone and develop essential skills like flexibility and teamwork. Professionally, their commitment to continuous learning and career development has empowered me to take on new challenges and advance in my field.

Conchita Senior Revenue Business Analyst Culinary Explorer Restaurant Explorer

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Things to Know Before You Cruise

Cruise Ship Salaries: How Much Do Workers Really Make?

As someone who loves to travel, I’ve always been curious about how much money cruise ship workers make. It’s easy to assume that they earn a lot, given the luxurious nature of the industry. But as I delved deeper into the topic, I realized that the answer is not as straightforward as I thought.

In this article, I’ll be breaking down the salaries of different cruise ship staff, including captains, waiters, chefs, bartenders, doctors, nurses, and entertainers, and discussing the employee benefits that come with the job.

While the median average salary for cruise ship workers may be less than that of the average American, it’s important to consider the unique nature of the job. Cruise ship contracts can last anywhere between 2 and 11 months, with most lasting 4 to 8 months, meaning that employees have the opportunity to earn a significant amount of money in a short amount of time.

Additionally, the employee benefits that come with the job, such as free room and board, can be a major perk. So, let’s take a closer look at the earning potential and benefits of working on a cruise ship.

• The median average salary for a cruise ship worker is less than that of the average American, but more than the average salary of many other countries.
• Cruise ship employees usually work on contracts that can last between 2 and 11 months, with most lasting 4 to 8 months, and they get to go home for a couple of months in between contracts.
• Cruise ship staff do not get access to free wifi, but they may receive benefits such as accommodation, food, laundry, training, flights to and from the ship, medical care, health insurance, dental insurance, retirement plan, life insurance, and cruise discounts for family members.
• Salaries of cruise ship staff vary greatly depending on their position and level of experience, with the average salary of a cruise ship captain being $98,000 and the average cruise director salary being $58,887. Cruise ship waiters can make anywhere from $1,200 to $5,000 per month, while cruise ship doctors can earn between $7,500 and $12,000 per month depending on their level of experience.

Earning Potential

As I read about the earning potential of different cruise ship staff, I noticed that salaries can vary greatly depending on the position and level of experience, with some employees earning as little as $1,200 per month and others making up to $177k per year.

It’s worth noting that cruise ship contracts can last anywhere between 2 and 11 months, with most lasting 4 to 8 months. During this time, living expenses such as accommodation and food are usually covered by the cruise line, but employees may not have access to free Wi-Fi.

It’s clear that there is a significant range in earning potential for cruise ship staff, with some positions offering much higher salaries than others. However, it’s important to consider the duration of contracts and the fact that living expenses are often taken care of by the cruise line.

Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to weigh the pros and cons of working on a cruise ship and decide if the earning potential is worth the time and effort required.

Salary Breakdown

Let me break down the different pay scales for various positions on a cruise ship. While the average salary of a cruise ship worker may be less than that of the average American, it’s important to note that the earning potential varies greatly depending on the position held.

For instance, a cruise ship captain can earn an average salary of $98,000, while a newly-appointed cruise director may make around $45,000. When negotiating pay, it’s important to consider the discrepancies that may exist between different positions.

For example, cruise ship chefs usually have several years of experience working in similar roles in luxury hotels, restaurants or other high-volume food service facilities. The executive chef on a cruise ship can make up to $6,500 per month, depending on the ship. However, cruise ship waiters may only make $1,200 per month for a junior position or $5,000 per month for the head waiter on an ultra-luxury cruise ship.

It’s important to do your research and negotiate based on your experience and the position you’re applying for in order to ensure fair compensation.

Employee Benefits

I’ve always heard that employee benefits can make a huge difference in job satisfaction, and working on a cruise ship is no exception.

When it comes to housing, most cruise ship employees are provided with accommodation while they work on board. The type of accommodation depends on the position and the ship, but it can range from shared cabins to private rooms with a balcony. Some cruise lines even offer housing for employees in between contracts, which is a great benefit for those who want to save money on rent.

Another important benefit for cruise ship workers is vacation time. While contracts can last between 2 and 11 months, most employees get to go home for a couple of months in between contracts. This gives workers a chance to rest, recharge, and spend time with family and friends.

In addition, cruise lines may offer discounts on cruises for family members of employees, which is a great way to enjoy the perks of working on a cruise ship while also spending quality time with loved ones.

Overall, the benefits offered to cruise ship employees can make a big difference in their quality of life and job satisfaction.

Captain Salaries

Honestly, being a captain on a cruise ship seems like a high-paying and prestigious job. According to the table below, the average salary for a cruise ship captain is $98,000. However, this varies depending on the size of the ship and the captain’s experience. A less experienced captain of a small cruise ship can expect to earn around $44,000, while a captain of a mega-ship with over 20 years of experience can earn up to $177,000. Captains can also receive bonuses of up to $40,000 per year, as well as profit sharing of up to $3,000.

To become a captain on a cruise ship, a candidate must have several years of experience as a deck officer and must possess a master’s license from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. The experience requirements vary depending on the size of the ship, but most captains have between 5 and 10 years of experience before being promoted to the role. It’s important to note that being a captain on a cruise ship is not just about sailing the ship. Captains are also responsible for the safety of the ship and its passengers, managing the crew, and ensuring that the ship runs smoothly.

Cruise Director Salaries

From my research, the cruise director position seems to offer a decent salary with the potential for growth. As the head of the entertainment department, the cruise director is responsible for organizing and overseeing all onboard activities and events.

This includes everything from live performances to trivia games and dance parties. They also play a key role in ensuring that guests have a memorable and enjoyable experience while on the ship.

To become a cruise director, one typically needs several years of experience in the entertainment industry, as well as strong leadership and organizational skills. They must have the ability to manage a large team of staff and work collaboratively with other departments on the ship.

Additionally, good communication and public speaking skills are a must, as the cruise director often serves as the public face of the ship and is expected to interact with guests on a regular basis. Overall, the cruise director role offers a challenging and rewarding career path for those with a passion for entertainment and hospitality.

Waiter and Chef Salaries

Based on my research, waiters and chefs working on luxury cruise ships can earn significantly higher salaries than their counterparts in traditional restaurants and hotels. A junior waiter on a cruise ship can earn up to $1,200 per month, while the head waiter on an ultra-luxury cruise ship can make up to $5,000 per month. These salaries are due to the job responsibilities that come with working on a cruise ship, such as working long hours and being away from home for months at a time.

Additionally, the industry trends show that cruise ship companies are willing to pay more to attract and retain talented staff. Cruise ship chefs usually have several years of experience working in similar roles in luxury hotels, restaurants, or other high-volume food service facilities. An executive chef on a cruise ship can make up to $6,500 per month, depending on the ship.

These salaries are also due to the job responsibilities that come with working on a cruise ship, such as preparing a variety of meals for thousands of guests each day. The industry trends show that cruise ship companies prioritize high-quality food and dining experiences for guests, which means that they are willing to pay more for skilled chefs.

Doctor and Nurse Salaries

I was surprised to learn how much medical professionals on luxury cruise lines can earn, given the importance of their roles in ensuring the well-being of guests. Cruise ship medical staff play a crucial role in providing necessary medical attention to guests who may fall ill or get injured on the ship. They often work long hours and may have to deal with a variety of medical emergencies, but the salaries they earn reflect their expertise and the importance of their work.

The table below shows the salaries of cruise ship medical staff, including doctors and nurses. In addition to competitive salaries, cruise ship medical staff may also receive benefits such as accommodation, food, and medical care. Working conditions on a cruise ship can be challenging, but for those who enjoy cultural diversity, career growth opportunities, and a unique work-life balance, a career as a cruise ship medical professional may be worth considering.

As with any job, there are pros and cons to working as a cruise ship medical professional. On the one hand, the opportunity to travel and work in a unique environment can be a major draw. On the other hand, the long hours and lack of access to certain amenities, such as free wifi, may not be for everyone. Overall, the salaries of cruise ship medical staff reflect the importance of their work and the value they bring to the cruise industry.

Other Cruise Ship Jobs and Services

Now that we’ve covered the salaries of cruise ship doctors and nurses, let’s move on to other jobs and services offered onboard.

One of the most popular amenities on a cruise ship is the spa. Most cruise ships have spas that offer a wide range of services, such as massages, facials, and body treatments. The cost of these services can vary depending on the cruise line and the type of service, but they’re typically more expensive than what you’d pay on land. However, many people are willing to pay the extra cost for the convenience and luxury of having spa services available to them while on vacation.

In addition to spa services, cruise ships also offer a variety of onboard activities. These can range from fitness classes to cooking demonstrations to art auctions. Some cruise lines even have onboard water parks and zip lines. The cost of these activities is usually included in the price of the cruise, but some may have an additional fee.

It’s important to check with the cruise line to see what activities are available and if there are any extra costs associated with them. With so many options for entertainment and relaxation, there’s never a dull moment on a cruise ship.

What are the working conditions like for cruise ship workers?

Living quarters vary depending on one’s job, but most crew members share small cabins with limited privacy. Work-life balance is a challenge due to long hours and being away from home for months. Many find the experience rewarding despite the hardships.

How do cruise ship companies recruit and hire their employees?

The recruitment process for cruise ship employees involves rigorous screening, background checks, and interviews. Qualifications depend on the job, but most require previous experience and certification. It’s a competitive industry, with thousands of applicants vying for each position.

What kind of training is required for cruise ship staff?

To work on a cruise ship, certification requirements vary depending on the position. Language proficiency is important for customer-facing roles. Training is provided on board and may include safety, hospitality, and job-specific skills.

What are some of the biggest challenges that cruise ship workers face?

Working on a cruise ship can be mentally challenging due to long working hours and isolation from friends and family. Mental health support is essential to combat these challenges and ensure a fulfilling work experience.

How do cruise ship workers spend their free time while on board?

During free time, cruise ship workers can participate in various activities such as visiting ports, watching shows, using the gym, or relaxing by the pool. Socializing opportunities include crew parties, bars, and organized events.