Activity Coordinator – Organize Events and Guest Engagement Programs
cruise ship jobs
Available Locations:
cape town, Western Cape
Job Description
Job Summary
Cruise Ship Jobs is seeking a high‑energy, guest-obsessed Activity Coordinator to plan, host, and execute an engaging, safe, and diverse program of daily activities for guests of all ages on board our vessels. You will be on the microphone, on the dance floor, running quizzes, crafting tournaments, fitness/wellness sessions, theme nights, and destination-focused experiences—while ensuring flawless logistics, impeccable service, and full compliance with maritime safety standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Program Design & Delivery
- Plan and deliver a 7‑day rolling calendar of daytime and evening activities (games, trivia, parties, workshops, fitness, enrichment lectures, family activities).
- Host events with confidence on stage and over the PA system; act as MC/emcee for large audiences.
- Adapt programming to guest demographics, itinerary, weather, and operational changes.
- Guest Engagement & Service
- Build strong guest relationships, proactively gather feedback, and resolve concerns on the spot.
- Encourage participation through energetic promotion, announcements, and 1:1 interactions.
- Operations & Administration
- Create run sheets, tech cues, and equipment checklists; coordinate with AV/Entertainment, Housekeeping, F&B, Shorex, and Safety teams.
- Track attendance, costs, satisfaction scores, and engagement KPIs; report insights to the Entertainment/Activities Manager.
- Safety, Compliance & Risk Management
- Participate in muster drills, crowd control, and all required safety trainings.
- Ensure all activities meet shipboard safety, security, and public health (e.g., USPH) standards.
- Teamwork & Leadership
- Mentor junior activity staff and volunteers; support cross-departmental initiatives and shipwide events.
- Step in to cover other entertainment roles when required (e.g., hosting theater pre-shows).
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Exceptional public speaking, stage presence, and microphone hosting skills.
- Strong event planning & coordination abilities with meticulous attention to detail.
- High emotional intelligence; able to engage multicultural, multi-generational audiences.
- Comfortable working long, irregular hours in a fast-paced, live-event environment.
- Proficient with MS Office / Google Workspace; familiarity with shipboard PMS/CRM tools (e.g., Fidelio, MXP) is a plus.
- Physically fit; able to lift equipment (up to ~20 kg), stand for extended periods, and work on a moving vessel.
- Fluency in English is required; additional languages (Spanish, Italian, German, French, Mandarin, etc.) are a distinct advantage.
- Willing and able to live and work onboard for extended contracts (typically 6–8 months).
Experience
- 2+ years in any combination of: activities/recreation management, events, hospitality, entertainment, cruise/ resort programming, camp leadership, or guest experience.
- Prior onboard cruise, resort, theme park, or large-scale hospitality experience preferred.
- Experience hosting large groups, running interactive games/competitions, or managing AV cues is highly desirable.
Working Hours
- Contract-based shipboard role: typically 6–8 months on board, followed by 6–10 weeks off.
- 7-day work week, averaging 70–84 hours (split shifts; mornings, afternoons, evenings, late nights).
- Must be flexible for port days, sea days, and emergency drills.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)
- Knowledge
- Basic crowd management, customer service best practices, and event safety.
- Understanding of shipboard hygiene/public health protocols (e.g., USPH, HACCP).
- Awareness of global cultures and international guest expectations.
- Skills
- Hosting & facilitation, time management, conflict resolution, creative programming, copywriting for daily programs/app notifications.
- Data tracking & reporting for engagement metrics and satisfaction scores.
- Abilities
- Think on your feet, pivot plans quickly, and maintain composure under pressure.
- Collaborate effectively with multi-functional, multicultural teams.
- Inspire participation and create memorable guest moments.
Benefits
- Competitive tax-free salary with potential for performance bonuses and gratuities.
- Free accommodation, meals, laundry, and medical care on board.
- Paid travel to/from the ship at the start and end of contract (per company policy).
- Access to crew recreation facilities, shore leave (where permitted), and global itineraries.
- Career growth pathways to Senior Activity Coordinator, Activities Manager, Assistant Cruise Director, and Cruise Director.
- Crew discounts on onboard services and sister brands (where applicable).
Why Join Cruise Ship Jobs?
- Deliver unforgettable experiences to thousands of guests while traveling the world.
- Join a diverse, international crew with a strong culture of safety, inclusion, and professional development.
- Fast-track your hospitality/entertainment career with clear progression and structured training.
- Work in a live, dynamic environment where no two days are the same.
How to Apply
- Submit your CV/Resume highlighting hosting/event experience and languages spoken.
- Include a 90–120 second hosting/showreel video link (if available) demonstrating your stage and microphone presence.
- Provide availability dates, passport validity, and any current maritime (STCW, Crowd Management) or public health certifications.
- Apply via our careers portal or email: careers@cruiseshipjobs.example (replace with the actual address provided in the job post).
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Pre-employment medical, background checks, and safety certifications may be required as per maritime regulations.