Historian & Destination Speaker

American Cruise Lines•Lewiston, ID

11d

About The Position

American Cruise Lines is seeking knowledgeable, engaging Historians & Destination Speakers to enrich the guest experience aboard its small ships. Speakers use presentations, port previews, underway commentary, shore excursions, and informal conversations to help guests understand the history, culture, and natural surroundings of destinations they visit. Assignments are matched to the candidate’s expertise and the needs of individual itineraries; candidates may specialize in a particular region, and expertise in every region is not required. Relevant backgrounds may include history, geography, ecology, maritime heritage, literature, music, and other destination-focused subjects. This is an onboard working position combining scheduled programming, preparation, and regular guest interaction. Historians work seven days per week while onboard and must remain aboard for the full duration of each assignment. Assignment lengths vary based on candidate availability and regional needs. American Cruise Lines provides travel to and from the assigned vessel, along with room and board. The company identifies Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit as its guiding values, and describes its work as sharing America’s story on American ships.

Requirements

Demonstrated expertise in subjects directly relevant to the assigned itinerary.
Polished public speaking skills and the ability to make complex subjects accessible and engaging for a general audience.
Sufficient presentation material to provide varied programming throughout an entire cruise without excessive repetition.
Strong research skills, sound factual accuracy, and the ability to prepare useful port-specific information.
Strong interpersonal skills, a friendly and confident manner, and a commitment to guest service.
Excellent time management, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of PowerPoint and audio/visual equipment.
A collaborative approach and willingness to respond to direction and performance feedback.
Substantial knowledge of the proposed region.

Responsibilities

Deliver engaging 45- to 60-minute enrichment presentations, generally one per day as scheduled, supported by clear and relevant PowerPoint visuals.
Research each port and present daily 15- to 20-minute Port Previews, including time for questions and covering the destination and what guests can expect ashore.
Provide brief periods of live underway commentary during daylight hours, as appropriate to the itinerary, highlighting relevant landmarks, scenery, history, and points of interest over the ship’s public address system; coordinate timing with the onboard team.
Participate in select shore excursions when requested, providing coach commentary or additional destination context as appropriate.
Dine with guests each evening and contribute to welcoming, engaging conversation.
Be available for informal discussions and questions throughout the day and evening.
Coordinate programming with the Cruise Director and onboard team, adapting to sailing schedules and itinerary changes.
Work seven days per week while onboard and remain aboard for the full duration of each assignment.