Cruise & Excursions Director: Guest Experience Leader

American Cruise Lines; Alaska; On-site; USD 166,000 - 221,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

401(k) with match

Travel & lodging covered

Uniforms provided

Job summary

American Cruise Lines is seeking a Cruise & Excursions Director to lead onboard activities and shore programs during the 2026 season. The role emphasizes guest engagement, production of events, and coordination with vendors, guides and home office to ensure premium experiences.

This full-time, exempt position requires strong presentation skills, extensive guest interaction and the ability to manage complex schedules across shipboard and shore activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, tourism, or event management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications.
• Enthusiasm, confidence, and a can-do attitude.
• Strong public speaking skills.
• Strong social skills.
• Strong critical thinking skills.
• Strong sense of production and presentation.
• Basic knowledge of audio/visual equipment.
• Excellent time management and attention to detail.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. geography.
• TWIC credential.
• Ability to perform the essential functions with or without accommodation.

Responsibilities

• Schedule and execute engaging entertainment, enrichment and activity programs that enhance the guest experience.
• Communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program, PA system and one-on-one interactions.
• Be extraordinarily well-versed in the cruising region, ports of call and excursions offered.
• Coordinate, communicate and confirm all logistics with vendors, coach companies, guides, and operators.
• Greet guests departing for and returning from shore excursions.
• Accompany guests on daily excursions as a company representative and brand ambassador.
• Oversee excursion inventory and invoicing system; manage system hardware.
• Promote onboard sales and brand loyalty programs.
• Inform crew members of daily excursion offerings.
• Prepare folders and materials for turnaround day.
• Meet with Guest Speakers and Instructors to review scheduling.
• Assist in the delivery of Safety Briefings with the Captain.
• Ensure lounges are prepared for activities and AV requirements.
• Report regularly to the Home Office on cruise status, excursions and guest issues.

Skills

Public speaking

Social skills

Critical thinking

Production & presentation

Time management

Geography knowledge

TWIC

Attitude & initiative

Office proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s in Hospitality, Tourism or Event Management

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

American Cruise Lines is seeking a Cruise & Excursions Director to lead onboard activities and shore programs during the 2026 season. The role emphasizes guest engagement, production of events, and coordination with vendors, guides and home office to ensure premium experiences.

This full-time, exempt position requires strong presentation skills, extensive guest interaction and the ability to manage complex schedules across shipboard and shore activities.