Hotel General Manager

American Cruise Lines is recognized as the largest USA-flagged cruise line in the United States, specializing in small ship experiences with vessels accommodating no more than 200 passengers. The company operates exclusively within the United States, offering unique travel experiences that highlight the beauty and culture of American destinations. With an expanding fleet that includes newly constructed ships, American Cruise Lines is experiencing a dynamic growth phase, making it an exciting time for professionals to join the shipboard management team. The company values optimism, commitment, patriotism, and merit, which are deeply ingrained in its corporate culture and reflected through the superior guest service it consistently delivers. American Cruise Lines is dedicated to sharing America’s story through their outstanding service and hospitality aboard their fine American ships.

The position of Hotel General Manager aboard these vessels is a senior leadership role that holds significant responsibility for managing the overall guest experience on the ship. This full-time, exempt role is critical to ensuring that every guest encounter is characterized by gracious hospitality, professionalism, and exceptional service quality. As the Hotel General Manager, you will oversee daily hospitality operations, including customer service, housekeeping, and food and beverage service, while guaranteeing that all crew members meet company standards. This position entails supervising and evaluating key hotel management team members such as the Assistant Hotel Manager, Housekeeping Manager, Restaurant Manager, Cruise Director, Excursions Director, Executive Chef, and Guest Service Coordinator.

You will be the primary representative of American Cruise Lines to passengers, embodying the company’s service ethos and setting the tone for the entire onboard experience. The Hotel General Manager is accountable for maintaining superior guest satisfaction, which is a vital metric driving overall success. This role requires a strong leadership presence, effective communication skills, and the ability to swiftly address and resolve any guest or crew issues. Executives in this position must also manage housekeeping standards, ensure impeccable cleanliness in passenger areas, oversee food quality and service, and coordinate all hotel and food inventory management. Their responsibility extends to overseeing crew orientation, scheduling, enforcement of appearance and uniform policies, and discipline where necessary.

In addition, Hotel General Managers are tasked with maintaining compliance with the American Cruise Lines’ operational manuals, service standards, and safety procedures. The role demands a dynamic manager who can anticipate guest and crew needs, respond quickly to requests, and provide immediate corrective feedback when managing the team. As the face of hospitality on the ship, the General Manager must be comfortable speaking and presenting to guests, including during meals, cocktail hours, and onboard events. The physically demanding work environment requires candidates to adapt to the ship’s constant motion and be capable of standing for prolonged periods and performing tasks such as climbing, bending, and lifting.

The position offers a competitive daily rate of pay, comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision insurance, and a 401(k) plan with company match. American Cruise Lines also provides covered expenses such as travel, room and board, uniforms, and training. The work schedule typically involves working 7 days a week onboard for 6 to 8 weeks, followed by 1 to 2 weeks off, requiring flexibility and a commitment to a rigorous schedule. This opportunity is ideal for experienced hospitality professionals seeking a challenging and rewarding career in the cruise industry, especially those with a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences while working aboard some of the finest American ships.