Guest Experience Director — Cruise & Excursions

Socket.dev; Saint Elmo (LA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 129,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision

401(k) with match

Travel, room and board provided

Uniforms and training

Job summary

American Cruise Lines seeks a Cruise & Excursions Director to lead guest experiences aboard our ships and in port. The role blends lively programming with destination exploration, requiring polished presentations, teamwork with hotel management, and a commitment to sharing America’s story on the Finest American Ships.

You will schedule activities, manage excursions, coordinate logistics with vendors, and ensure guest satisfaction through proactive communication and brand loyalty initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in hospitality, tourism, or event management preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Enthusiasm, confidence, and a can-do attitude.
• Strong public speaking skills.
• Strong social skills.
• Strong critical thinking and presentation abilities.
• Basic knowledge of audio/visual equipment.
• Excellent time management and attention to detail.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. geography preferred.
• TWIC credential.

Responsibilities

• Schedule and execute entertainment and activity programs for guests.
• Create the Ship to Shore.
• Communicate to guests via the shipboard daily program and PA system.
• Be knowledgeable about cruising region, ports and excursions.
• Confirm and adjust shore excursions, explorations and transfers.
• Greet guests on departures and returns from shore excursions.
• Accompany guests on daily excursions as brand ambassador.
• Coordinate logistics with vendors, coaches, guides and operators.
• Accommodate guest requests, including personalized arrangements.
• Socialize with guests during meals and cocktail hour.
• Make PA announcements as the voice of the cruise.
• Present Officer’s Introduction and Excursions Briefing.
• Assist in Safety Briefing with the Captain.
• Ensure lounges are prepared for activities and shows.
• Meet and greet entertainers; conduct sound checks.
• Oversee excursion inventory and invoicing system.
• Manage launch boat operations with the Mate.
• Purchase morning newspapers in port.
• Oversee port information collateral and maps for guests.
• Ensure background music in lounges.
• Create and update bulletin boards daily.
• Coordinate weekly office inventory.
• Prepare folders/materials for turnaround day.
• Inform crew of daily excursion offerings.
• Monitor vendor performance and take corrective action.
• Represent the company at pre-cruise hotels when applicable.
• Meet with speakers to review scheduling.
• Promote onboard sales and brand loyalty.
• Communicate with Home Office about cruise status and issues.
• Perform other duties as assigned and bartending as needed.

Skills

Public speaking

Social skills

Critical thinking

Microsoft Office

A/V knowledge

Time management

Geography knowledge

TWIC credential

Enthusiasm

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in hospitality or related

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

American Cruise Lines seeks a Cruise & Excursions Director to lead guest experiences aboard our ships and in port. The role blends lively programming with destination exploration, requiring polished presentations, teamwork with hotel management, and a commitment to sharing America’s story on the Finest American Ships.

You will schedule activities, manage excursions, coordinate logistics with vendors, and ensure guest satisfaction through proactive communication and brand loyalty initiatives.