Entertainment & Engagement Manager
- Recruiter:
- Jobs on a Ship
- Category:
- Entertainment & Activities Jobs
- Position:
- Cruise Director
- Salary:
- $7,000
- Updated:
- August 11, 2026
The Entertainment & Engagement Manager (EEM) is the primary face and voice of onboard guest engagement. The core focus of this role is socializing, hosting events, and building strong, natural connections with guests, crew, and the brand. Combining exceptional social and people skills with strong organizational ability, the EEM oversees all non-destination entertainment, enrichment, and daily shipboard activities to deliver high-quality guest experiences.
Key Responsibilities
1. Guest Experience & Event Hosting
- Serve as the main onboard personality, actively connecting with guests throughout the ship on a daily basis.
- Host signature daytime and evening events (e.g., Captain’s Receptions, Farewell Events, theme nights, trivia, and games).
- Produce and direct the Crew Show, ensuring high-quality acts and overall entertainment value. Schedule, monitor, and manage all entertainment and enrichment programming to ensure guest satisfaction.
- Produce and proofread the Daily Program and internal display media systems.
- Act as a direct point of contact for guest feedback and assist in resolving issues promptly.
2. Team Leadership & Operations
- Manage, schedule, and direct onboard musical acts, duo groups, and AV managers.
- Oversee the operation, upkeep, and basic maintenance of hotel audio-visual equipment in coordination with corporate AV teams.
- Coordinate departmental scheduling, including In-Port Manning (IPM) duties.
- Conduct regular team meetings and performance evaluations for direct reports.
3. Efficiency & Quality Control
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and guest satisfaction ratings for entertainment.
- Conduct frequent quality assurance checks during events and activities.
- Identify areas for improvement and implement creative concepts to elevate the guest experience.
4. Safety & Compliance
- Perform assigned Emergency Organization duties as part of shipboard safety compliance.
- Ensure all departmental operations adhere to company standard operating procedures and safety guidelines.
Qualifications & Key Competencies
- Natural Connector: Exceptional interpersonal, social, and emcee skills with a warm and engaging disposition.
- Entertainment Background: Strong understanding of entertainment operations, enrichment programming, and event production.
- Technical Knowledge: Basic working knowledge of audio-visual systems and internal content management systems.
- Leadership & Communication: Ability to lead, motivate, and give constructive feedback to a diverse crew and artist team.
- Digital Skills: Competent with basic software tools, social media, and basic photography.
- Problem-Solving: Strong organizational skills with a proactive approach to resolving operational challenges.
Certifications & Physical Demands
- Certifications: STCW 5-Part Basic Training (including Security Awareness) required.
- Mobility & Travel: Extended shipboard contracts (up to 4 months) required.
- Physical Ability: Able to maintain required physical fitness to carry out daily duties, including occasionally lifting up to 40 lbs.
STCW Certificates
You will need valid STCW certificates to apply for this position. Find an STCW course near you.
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