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How to Work on a Cruise Ship as an Entertainer

by Karen Ellen

Overview

Today's megaships need lots of entertainers, and new ships are being built annually. If you are a talented singer, dancer, musician, comedian, disc jockey or specialty act, or you know the ropes of working behind the scenes as a technician, you could get a job on a cruise ship. You'll see the world, and maybe even fatten your savings account because your room and board are paid for, and you don't need a car to commute to work.

Step 1

Get a good head shot taken, preferably by a professional photographer. Keep prints and an electronic version on hand to submit with your application.
Step 2

Compile a detailed résumé of pertinent experience and expertise (such as styles of music you can play or sing, or dance specialties), your work history and education. Don't forget to include detailed contact information.
Step 3

Create a demo DVD of you performing. Record it in front of a live audience if possible to show how you interact. You should also have this material on hand for electronic uploading. Instead of a demo DVD, you may substitute website links if you have enough appropriate samples of your work online.
Step 4

Visit cruise line websites, if you want to work for a particular cruise line. Most lines have a link to career opportunities with an online application and ask you to upload your photo and demo material. Or they will provide an address where you can mail your résumé, head shot and demo material.
Step 5

Consider using entertainment agencies. They supply talent to cruise lines in exchange for 10 to 15 percent of your monthly salary. The cruise line either deducts this fee from your paycheck to pay the agency, or pays your agency directly, then the agency pays you. This may be a good option if you have no cruise line preference.
Step 6

Look into referral agencies, which charge you an upfront, one-time fee to prepare your application and submit it and your demo material to cruise lines.
Step 7

Attend a live audition, if you live in a major city where cruise lines schedule them. Some cruise lines and agencies schedule auditions several times a year.

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Demo DVD Head shots
Demo DVD
Head shots
Make your demo DVD long enough to show your versatility because your talents must appeal to passengers of all ages and backgrounds. If you get the job, the cruise line likely will pay for your transportation to the ship.
Make your demo DVD long enough to show your versatility because your talents must appeal to passengers of all ages and backgrounds.
If you get the job, the cruise line likely will pay for your transportation to the ship.