Upon the successful completion of our shoreside training program, you will be eligible for a ship assignment. While we cannot guarantee a specific vessel for your employment, we make every effort to ensure the best possible fit. We carefully consider all requests during this process. Once assigned, we will coordinate your flights and transportation to the ship. During your first day aboard, you will be introduced to your fellow crew members, given a comprehensive tour of the ship, and assisted in settling into your stateroom.

Each of our ships is carefully designed to make both the crew and the guests comfortable as we sail the U.S. waterways. The living quarters resemble a dormitory environment in which you can quickly make new friends. Crew members can be assigned up to twelve roommates, depending on the ship, while Senior Officers (Hotel General Managers, Executive Chefs, and Captains) have a private stateroom and bath.

Our ships operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In order to provide our guests with the best service possible throughout their cruise, crew members are required to work during the hours that the ship operates. Your schedule will vary each day depending on where we are and what is planned for our guests during that itinerary. Yes this is hard work, but it is a truly rewarding experience for those who are able to understand the value of what we offer our employees. 

During your time off, we encourage you to take a break from your hard work and reward yourself. Immerse yourself in the unique culture of each port. Our dining room is available when it does not interfere with guest meal services. To keep in contact with family and friends, we offer free WiFi access while on board as available based on service quality. In order to assure that you are well rested enough to work the following day, we have implemented a strict 11 pm curfew for all crew members. Alcohol is prohibited at all times on the ship, even when at port. When on the ship, your top priority should be our guests. Therefore, you must always be ready to take action in the event of an emergency.

Not only do you travel expense-free, but you also get to dine on chef-inspired cuisine daily. One of the chefs on board will prepare food for all crew members at times that do not interfere with guest dining. Breakfast is made to order, while lunch and dinner are served buffet style. If at any point,you have a dietary request, we will do our best to accommodate you. Nutrition is important during your time with American Cruise Lines. Being on your feet for a majority of the day, our meals are created to supply you with all the essential nutrients needed to keep you healthy. If at any point you wanted to change your food choices, there is always the opportunity to eat on shore while we are in port.

Servers, Housekeepers, Deckhands, and Dishwashers can work for us up to 28 weeks. Managers and officers work a schedule of several weeks on, several weeks off, with longer shifts during the busy season (summer and fall). After accepting a position, we will work with you to schedule your start date and organize your travel to the ship. Breaks can be prearranged with advance notice, as we need to make sure that our staffing needs are continually met. Once you have completed your time with us, we will help you with your travel arrangements to get you back home safely.