Historian & Destination Speaker
About The Position
American Cruise Lines is seeking knowledgeable and engaging Historians & Destination Speakers to enrich the guest experience aboard its small ships. Speakers provide presentations, port previews, underway commentary, shore-excursion context, and informal conversation to help guests understand the history, culture, and natural surroundings of the destinations they visit. Assignments are matched to each candidate’s expertise and itinerary needs; candidates may specialize in one region, and expertise in every region is not required. Relevant subject backgrounds include history, geography, ecology, maritime heritage, literature, music, and other destination-focused fields. This is an onboard working position combining scheduled programming, preparation, and regular interaction with guests. Historians work seven days per week while onboard and must remain aboard for the full duration of each assignment. Assignment lengths depend on candidate availability and regional needs. American Cruise Lines provides travel to and from the assigned vessel, along with room and board. Job sites are across the nation.
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 and attention to detail.
- 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.
- Passion for building relationships and speaking about American history.
- Ability to engage guests throughout each cruise.
- Sense of urgency in responding to guest, crew, and home office requests.
- Positive attitude and receptiveness to continuous performance feedback.
Responsibilities
- Deliver scheduled 45- to 60-minute enrichment presentations, generally one per day, supported by clear and relevant PowerPoint visuals.
- Research each port and deliver 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 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.
- Remain aboard for the full duration of each assignment and work seven days per week while onboard.
Benefits
- Travel to and from the assigned vessel is provided.
- Room and board are provided.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
No Education Listed
