A Cruise Director is one of the most prominent members of the crew on a ship. They’re the head honchos when it comes to entertainment, managing the whole team responsible for shows and activities, and often hosting the bigger shows themselves.
Cruise Directors are often big personalities, and will have a cult following of their own. Especially on cruise lines like Carnival where some people will look at thew cruise director’s schedule and plan their cruise to make sure they sail with a specific CD.
So I decided to have some fun and ask my Facebook fans who would be their dream Cruise Director, if they could have anyone alive or dead. And here are the suggestions they came back with!
Bear in mind that my Facebook page is followed by people around the world, so you might not recognise some of the suggestions, but maybe you’ll discover someone new to become a fan of!
1. Robin Williams
Known for his quick wit and humour, Robin Williams would keep guests entertained with his improvisational comedy and heartfelt performances.
Robin was tied for the most suggestions, showing just how beloved he was (and how good he would be as a Cruise Director!)
2. Alan Carr
As a popular comedian and chat show host, Alan Carr’s friendly and engaging personality would make passengers feel welcome and amused.
He tied with Robin Williams too for the number of suggestions, so people clearly think highly of him!
3. Ryan Reynolds
With his charm and comedic timing, Ryan Reynolds would bring a mix of humour and Hollywood glamour to any cruise. He’s shown to have a genuine warmth too, which would make everyone feel welcome.
4. Rylan Clark
A lively British TV presenter with a huge personality, Rylan would keep the energy high and the atmosphere fun for all guests. He’s a natural host and would fit right in amongst the cruise scene.
5. Kevin Hart
A top comedian known for his energetic performances, Kevin Hart would ensure the cruise is filled with laughter and excitement. He’s an outstanding standup comedian and actor, and would surely do great at a hosting role on a ship too.
6. Will Ferrell
Famous for his hilarious roles in films, Will Ferrell’s unique brand of comedy would make the cruise unforgettable. Imagine if you booked a Christmas cruise and he hosted events in character as Buddy the elf!
7. Billy Connolly
A legendary comedian with years of experience, Billy Connolly would captivate guests with his storytelling and humour. You’d spend all your time just enjoying his shows that you’d miss half the entertainment on the rest of the ship!
8. Sam Kinison
Known for his loud, intense comedic style, Sam Kinison would bring a unique and unforgettable energy to the role. That famous scream of his would certainly wake you up after a heavy dinner!
9. Benny Hill
His classic slapstick comedy would entertain guests of all ages, making the cruise a fun and nostalgic experience.
10. Shemar Moore
With his charm and charisma, actor Shemar Moore would be a delightful and engaging host for cruise passengers. However, he’s been known to heckle other comedians (for fun) so you’d hope he would let his entertainment team do their jobs!
11. David Walliams
As a comedian and author, David Walliams’ humour and creativity would keep guests thoroughly entertained. Some of his older characters from shows like Little Britain would have to stay retired, though.
12. Elvis Presley
The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll would bring musical excitement and legendary status, creating an iconic cruise experience. Talk about a cruise headliner!
13. RuPaul
Famous for his larger-than-life persona, RuPaul would bring glamour, fun, and fabulousness to the cruise. He’s another that feels like a natural fit for some of the more upmarket cruise lines, though probably a bit too big a star!
14. Peter Kay
Known for his observational comedy, British comedian Peter Kay would relate to and entertain guests with his hilarious insights. As long as cheesecake and garlic bread weren’t on the buffet menu.
15. Adam Sandler
With his comedic talent, Adam Sandler would ensure the cruise is filled with laughter. He’s shown that he has the hosting chops, but if he acted like some of his characters he might have limited patience for the bizarre requests of some cruise guests!
16. Andrew Lincoln
Best known for his dramatic roles, Andrew Lincoln’s presence would add a touch of star quality and intrigue. An interesting suggestion for a Cruise Director but hey, someone asked for him so he’s on the list.
17. George Michael
His iconic music and charismatic personality would make every event on the cruise feel like a special performance. Cruise Directors aren’t necessarily there to be big musical acts but George could certainly wow a crowd with his singing.
18. Mark Wahlberg
With his Hollywood star power and friendly nature, Mark Wahlberg would be a hit with guests looking for both fun and fitness. As well as hosting shows he could be running the wellness classes onboard!
19. Jerry Seinfeld
The master of observational comedy, Jerry Seinfeld would keep guests laughing with his sharp wit. There are a lot of stand-up comics on this list because they tend to be naturals at entertaining a crowd, and Seinfeld could definitely do a job as a CD.
20. Bill Murray
Known for his offbeat humour and charm, Bill Murray would create a quirky and entertaining atmosphere on board.
21. Michael McIntyre
British comic Michael McIntrye is known for his energetic comedy and relatable anecdotes that would keep guests in high spirits throughout the cruise. He’s an established host too now, and a cruise version of his Big Show would certainly work well as a recurring event as a Cruise Director.
22. Matthew McConaughey
With his laid-back charm and famous catchphrases, Matthew McConaughey would bring a touch of Hollywood cool – I’m sure many people would feel alright, alright, alright if he was greeting them onboard.
23. Jim Carrey
Arguably the only person on this list who could rival Robin Williams’ whirlwind energy as a potential Cruise Director, I’m almost surprised Jim didn’t get more mentions. He’d certainly make sure things were never boring.
24. Samuel L. Jackson
Sam Jackson’s commanding presence and amazing sense of humour would definitely make for quite the cruise host. As long as there were no mother-flipping snakes on this mother-flipping cruise.
25. Gary Busey
Known for his eccentric personality, Gary Busey would bring a unique and unpredictable fun to the cruise. Things would definitely be interesting with him in charge…
26. Keanu Reeves
With his calm and friendly demeanour, Keanu Reeves would be a gracious and engaging host for a cruise. He tends to be more reserved in public but I think he would do a good job of making everyone feel welcome.
27. Drew Carey
A popular comedian and TV host, Drew Carey would bring humour and a game show vibe to the cruise. He’s well-regarded for his hosting of improv shows, and being quick-thinking on your feet is certainly a good skill for a Cruise Director.
28. Kaleb Cooper
Known from “Clarkson’s Farm,” Kaleb Cooper’s down-to-earth personality and humour would appeal to many passengers, though I’m not sure how much he’d enjoy the limelight of the stage compared to his typical farm environment.
29. Johannes Radebe
Johannes is a professional dancer who’s appeared on both the South African and British versions of Strictly Come Dancing/Dancing with the Stars. His charisma and energy would ensure lively and entertaining events on board.
30. Kevin James
American comic and actor Kevin James would bring a lot of fun to the Cruise Director role. While better known for his movies and TV show The King of Queens, he does have a lot of stand-up comedy history too.
31. George Clooney
With his suave charm and Hollywood status, George Clooney would add a touch of elegance and excitement to any cruise – perhaps too much excitement for some guests onboard, though.
32. Vanessa Kirby
Vanessa Kirby is a stage and screen actress with many credits. Her grace and talent as an actress would bring a sophisticated and engaging presence to the cruise.
33. Paddy McGuinness
Known for his humour and lively hosting skills, British TV host and actor Paddy McGuinness would keep the fun going throughout the trip. He has experience hosting game shows and that would lend itself well to being a Cruise Director.
34. Humphrey Bogart
Here’s a blast from the past – Bogart’s classic Hollywood charm and iconic status would bring a timeless and elegant feel to any cruise. Not sure he’d fit in well on a Carnival ship but you never know.
35. Hugh Jackman
A talented actor and performer, Hugh Jackman’s charisma and musical skills would delight guests every night on a cruise. He would be extremely welcoming too and definitely has all the skills you would need to be a good cruise host.
36. P!nk
Not all musicians would make good Cruise Directors, but P!nk would do a fantastic job I’m sure. The pop star’s vibrant personality and musical talent would create an energetic and unforgettable atmosphere, that’s for sure.
37. Post Malone
With his unique style and musical talent, Post Malone would bring a cool and contemporary vibe to the Cruise Director role and I could see it working!
38. Brad Pitt
Brad Pitt’s star power and charm would make every event on the cruise feel like a Hollywood gala, and would certainly elevate the Cruise Director role.
39. Johnny Depp
Known for his eclectic roles, Johnny Depp’s presence would add a touch of intrigue and excitement to your cruise holiday. He hasn’t really shown off his hosting skills but I bet he could do a good job of entertaining guests in a variety of ways.
40. Wayne Brady
A versatile entertainer, Wayne Brady’s arguably the best choice on this list for a Cruise Director. He can act, he can sing, he’s got an incredible amount of charisma and a ton of experience doing improv comedy and improv acting. A true all-rounder, he’d be one of the best ever if he did decide to go down that route.
41. Gary Barlow
The British singer-songwriter’s musical talent and charm would make for memorable performances and events on a cruise. He already works with P&O Cruises and has his own venue, The 710 Club.
42. Joe Biden
Joe Biden’s not the only president to get a mention (see further below). His experience and stories as a public figure would provide fascinating and inspiring interactions but I’m not sure I see him hosting a “Mr and Mrs” game show on stage…
43. Sylvester Stallone
Sly Stallone is another big Hollywood name that was mentioned, and he would definitely bring the star power onboard. He could even double up as a Chief Security Officer too, which might help the cruise lines to afford him!
44. Luke Bryan
This American country singer’s charm and musical performances would keep the atmosphere lively and fun on a cruise ship. He’s a five-time winner of the ‘Entertainer of the Year’ award and so would probably do a great job!
45. John Cleese
This legendary comedian’s wit and humour would keep guests laughing throughout the trip. Provided the cruise ship wasn’t run in the same way as the Fawlty Towers hotel, anyway…
46. Jason Sudeikis
Known for his comedic roles, Jason Sudeikis’ humour and charm would ensure a fun-filled cruise. Though maybe his character Ted Lasso would be an even better fit for the Cruise Director role – you would leave the ship at the end of your cruise feeling like a changed person (for the better)!
47. Donald Trump
Trump is the other president that someone suggested for the Cruise Director role. His larger-than-life personality and experience in entertainment would make for an unforgettable cruise, that’s definitely true…
48. Shaquille O’Neal
Shaq would certainly be a commanding presence on stage as a Cruise Director. The NBA legend’s charisma and humour would make him a hit with guests of all ages.
He already has a relationship with Carnival, being appointed the Chief Fun Officer in 2018 and his Big Chicken dining venue features on several ships.
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Final word
There you have it – the suggestions of my Facebook fans. Are there any that you think stand out, either as a fantastic choice or a questionable one?
And do you have your own dream Cruise Director in mind? Let me know who (and why) in the comments!
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.