On most ships, the cruise director is responsible for hiring all of the musical acts, comedians and other guest performers. He emcees all evening entertainment, designs and hosts talent shows and other passenger participation events, and oversees the Broadway-style productions.
The cruise director is the passengers' liaison with the cruise line and shipboard crew. In conjunction with the Guest Services department, the cruise director manages passenger complaints and concerns. He is also the public face of the crew, mingling with passengers throughout the day.
Throughout each day, the cruise director makes public announcements of activities going on around the ship. During emergency situations, the cruise director works with the captain to provide essential information to passengers.
Although not always required, most cruise directors perform in at least one show during the cruise. Always a good sport, the cruise director may be asked to play a silly character or be gently teased during a show.
In many ways, the cruise director acts as a parent to young crew members who may be away from home for the first time. Drying tears, administering first aid and calming fears are common duties.
