The role of a cruise director has evolved significantly in recent years, adapting to the growing scale and complexity of modern cruise ships. Scott Sanders, who has worked in the cruise industry for 14 years and served as cruise director for Marella Cruises over the past four, offers insight into this multifaceted position aboard the Marella Voyager.
On a typical day early in the Mediterranean summer season, Sanders balances a range of responsibilities, including planning entertainment programmes, coordinating with production teams, and engaging with both passengers and crew. While passengers often recognize him as the face of the cruise—hosting shows in the 600-seat theatre, making announcements over the PA, and appearing on the ship’s Cruise Director TV—much of his work unfolds behind the scenes. This includes administrative duties such as scheduling upcoming sailings, liaising with performers, and managing logistical challenges that arise during daily operations.
Sanders describes the cruise director’s role as a constant balancing act between administrative tasks and visible engagement with guests. He emphasizes the importance of being accessible, noting how passenger feedback plays a critical role in shaping the onboard experience. Rather than assuming surveys are casually reviewed, Sanders personally reviews passenger comments multiple times daily through an onboard app called Navigate. This direct involvement allows him to address negative feedback promptly and recognize positive comments by having crew members send personal thank-you notes to guests.
To assist first-time cruisers, Sanders developed a “New to Cruise” welcome presentation that has since been adopted across the TUI-owned fleet. This session informs passengers about practical tips, such as the ship’s colour-coded carpet system for different areas, helping ease navigation and enhance the holiday experience. He notes that cruising today tends to be more relaxed and family-oriented compared to the formality of the past, with fewer traditional dress codes and more emphasis on a laid-back holiday atmosphere.
Sanders also manages the ship’s diverse entertainment offerings, including 12 theatrical shows produced by RWS Global, performed twice nightly. These shows require daily rehearsals and ongoing coordination with stage managers and technical teams, whom Sanders affectionately calls his “Men in Black” for their behind-the-scenes work with lighting and sound. The performers, likened to West End celebrities, are a major draw for passengers, especially children, who respond enthusiastically to their presence.
Even on port days, when many guests disembark, Sanders oversees alternative activities such as poolside performances, game shows, and quizzes to maintain the onboard atmosphere. Despite the extensive planning and complex logistics involved, his primary focus remains ensuring passengers have an enjoyable and memorable experience throughout their voyage.