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Hey BobI have worked across 2 different lines and a real variety of ship sizes.I’d agree that the role has changed and most definitely changes as your ships get bigger, because you are still just 1 person but have more guests to get around.At CCL the role of CD was changed to give us more opportunity to be with our guests.I can only talk for myself but I think there is a very delicate balance to be struck between not being overbearing and everywhere vs being accessible and seen. As far as needing to manage more - the CDs for us were freed from a lot of the previous meetings and clerical obligations when the role of Entertainment Director was introduced. As Cruise Director we now only directly manage the Fun Squad. Previously, CDs were responsible for overseeing the entire department. Which is still the case with other lines.The good old days are referred to by many as being like the Wild West. Where people were able to be spontaneous and often took liberties with the entertainment. There wasn’t as much involvement from head office. Nowadays, with a focus on protecting the integrity of our guest experience and “product” ... quality control if you will - as well as minimizing risks of insult and injury. A lot of the entertainment is heavily prescribed and monitored. Perhaps the sense of personality you’re missing is a knock on from some of these measure. Though I am a firm believer that it is possible to perform within the current framework and still have a personality.
Hey Bob
I have worked across 2 different lines and a real variety of ship sizes.
I’d agree that the role has changed and most definitely changes as your ships get bigger, because you are still just 1 person but have more guests to get around.
At CCL the role of CD was changed to give us more opportunity to be with our guests.
I can only talk for myself but I think there is a very delicate balance to be struck between not being overbearing and everywhere vs being accessible and seen. As far as needing to manage more - the CDs for us were freed from a lot of the previous meetings and clerical obligations when the role of Entertainment Director was introduced. As Cruise Director we now only directly manage the Fun Squad. Previously, CDs were responsible for overseeing the entire department. Which is still the case with other lines.
The good old days are referred to by many as being like the Wild West. Where people were able to be spontaneous and often took liberties with the entertainment. There wasn’t as much involvement from head office. Nowadays, with a focus on protecting the integrity of our guest experience and “product” ... quality control if you will - as well as minimizing risks of insult and injury. A lot of the entertainment is heavily prescribed and monitored. Perhaps the sense of personality you’re missing is a knock on from some of these measure. Though I am a firm believer that it is possible to perform within the current framework and still have a personality.
