Assistant Cruise Director
Publication date:
12 September 2024Workload:
100%Contract type:
Unlimited employment- Place of work:Orleans
Viking was founded in 1997 and has grown to be the leading small ship travel company, offering destination-focused river, ocean and expedition voyages on all seven continents. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers guests The Thinking Person’s Cruise® in contrast to mainstream cruises.
With more than 250 awards to its name, the company currently operates a fleet of state-of-the-art ships that have received numerous accolades since their launch from industry experts and travelers alike. For the second year in a row, Viking was voted the #1 River Line and the #1 Ocean Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking was also named #1 for both Rivers and Oceans by Travel + Leisure in the 2022 World’s Best Awards making it the only cruise line to reach the top of its categories in both publications in the same year.
Our major dock is in New Orleans, with other docking locations along the Mississippi. All travel expenses are covered by Viking.Role Overview
As part of our Mississippi Entertainment team you will be responsible for presentation, promotion, supervision, and arrangement of the shore excursions offered in the various ports of call
· You will be reporting to the Cruise Director
· You will be expected to work on a 12/4 rotation (12 weeks on board and 4 weeks off on vacation). Please note that rotation lenghts vary based on staffing and operational needs onboard Viking Mississippi
Role Expectations
· The role requires meticulous planning, effective communication skills, attention to detail, and a focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences throughout the cruise.
· Administrative tasks include preparing manifests, communicating with vendors, resolving issues during excursions. Duties involve updating the MXP program, end-of-cruise tasks include preparing for disembarkation and confirming post-extension plans.
· Liaise with vendors and tour operators, coordinates excursion logistics, ensures quality experiences for guests, and collaborates with the Cruise Director to promote shore programs, and onboard activities.
· Assist onboard activities and enrichment program alongside the Cruise Director
· Develop knowledge of ports and tours provided on Viking Mississippi. You will be the go-to person from the guests perspective to request more information about the activities provided on board
· Create a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere for passengers throughout the cruise journey
· Uphold impeccable grooming standards at all times by complying with Viking’s Image and Uniform Standards
· Demonstrate outstanding flexibility: able to work at different times of the day, under pressure and always reflect a positive can-do attitude and the best image of Viking
· You will be expected to consistently arrive on time and be prepared for work
· Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned at leaders’ discretion based on operational needs
About you
· 3' years' experience on ships with 2+ years' experience in a management position; Tour sales experience is an advantage
· Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, plus Mobile Devices, Point of Sales system (MXP database.)
· Strong management skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work in a multi-cultural environment
· Excellent communication skills and service minded (enjoys guest interaction and has a genuine interest in the guests’ experience)
Mandatory requirements & at will employment:
· U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident (green card) to work onboard the ship, as required by federal regulations
· Ability to satisfactorily pass a pre-employment drug test. Viking Mississippi is a drug-free and alcohol-free workplace
· Must be 21+ years old, physically fit and in good health to meet the demands of an intense shipboard role; must be able to carry heavy items and stand, kneel, and bend for prolonged periods of time
· Viking Cruises is an At-Will Employer. As such your employment with Viking is a voluntary one and is subject to termination with or without cause or notice, at any time by you or Viking. Nothing in
this document or in any oral or written statement shall be interpreted to conflict with or limit the right to terminate employment at will
FLSA (Fair Labor Standards Act) Status: Exempt Nonseamen