Cruise Director

Department: Entertainment

Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract

Reporting To: Entertainment Director

Description

The Cruise Director is the face of Holland America Line’s Entertainment and Enrichment program, embodying our brand's tradition of elegant travel and meaningful discovery. As the primary Host and Emcee, this role combines charisma, stage presence, and creativity to deliver programming that is both engaging and refined. From leading the Welcome Show with the full cast to hosting Gala Nights, the Orange Party, signature events, and marquee game shows, the Cruise Director ensures every moment is presented with polish and purpose.

The Cruise Director also leads the activities team, setting the vision for programming and ensuring every event runs to a high standard. They motivate and support the Assistant Cruise Director, Activities Crew, and Youth Host, building a culture of teamwork, accountability, and guest focus. Through strong leadership and visible presence, the Cruise Director creates an environment where the team can succeed and guests feel inspired and engaged throughout their journey.

Key Job Responsibilities

•  Host and deliver engaging live programming, including event introductions, game shows, trivia, enrichment talks, culinary demonstrations, and special presentations.
•  Lead signature events such as the Welcome Show with the full cast, Gala Nights, the Orange Party, Mariner events, and marquee game shows.
•  Champion the guest experience by overseeing the daily entertainment schedule and ensuring programs are delivered with consistency and polish.
•  Serve as a visible ambassador throughout the ship, setting guest expectations with accurate and timely information.
•  Lead the activities team, including the Assistant Cruise Director, Activities Crew, and Youth Host, providing direction, coaching, and accountability.
•  Foster teamwork and collaboration within the department, building an environment that supports both team success and guest satisfaction.
•  Collaborate with the Entertainment Director on program planning, hosting assignments, and overall execution.
•  Guide team members in developing stage presence, performance skills, and guest interaction.
•  Oversee administrative responsibilities including scheduling, timekeeping, evaluations, and in-port manning compliance.
•  Ensure compliance with company policies, safety protocols, security, and environmental regulations.
•  Maintain a professional appearance in line with company dress and grooming standards.
•  Utilize the Daily Program and Navigator App to guide guests to events and encourage participation.
•  Support port arrival logistics and provide information to guests as needed.
•  Deliver impactful guest experiences on the World Stage, ensuring events meet performance and operational standards. 

Experience

Minimum Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, hospitality, or related field of study, or equivalent professional experience
• Three years of experience in guest service, hospitality, or entertainment-related fields
• Exceptional verbal, written, and presentation skills both on stage in front of large audiences and in smaller, more personal settings
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Experience using computers for a variety of tasks
• Competency in Microsoft applications including Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Knowledge of scheduling, file management, and other administrative procedures
• Ability to work within tight deadlines and adapt to changing schedules

Preferred Experience

• Prior experience as a Cruise Director, Assistant Cruise Director, or senior entertainment leader on a premium or luxury cruise line
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and inspire a diverse onboard team, with accountability for scheduling and performance management
• Strong public speaking, hosting, and storytelling skills with a polished, guest-service–oriented presence
• Proven success curating and executing daily activity programming that resonates with a mature, well-traveled guest demographic
• Experience collaborating cross-functionally with hotel, entertainment, and operational leaders to deliver seamless, high-quality guest experiences