How Much Does a Cruise Ship Entertainer Earn?

Over the years, cruise ships have become a favorite way to enjoy a relaxing and exciting vacation. These hotels on water cater to thousands of guests during each trip and take them to locales across the globe. To ensure that everyone on board has an enjoyable trip, cruise ships hire hundreds of people to address most needs. Entertainers are an important part of every cruise and, from dancers to musicians, they can earn a reasonable pay while sailing the high seas for free.

Cruise ships are sure to hire comedians to keep guests laughing, especially during the evening hours. To qualify for the job, a prospective hire must have plenty of experience and material for up to three 30-minute performances. If selected, a comedian can make between $1,600 to $2,400 per month. Additionally, a special headline comedian with name recognition may be hired for a cruise. This individual will be paid much more than other comedians, and his pay will depend on his negotiated hourly rate, can amount to $18,000 or more per month.

When traveling on cruise ships, guests can take advantage of several activities and performances. In the evenings, dancers make up a significant portion of cruise ship entertainment. These men and women perform on stage, and first-time dancers can earn about $1,600 each month. More experienced dancers can earn $3,000 every month. Specialty dancers -- those who specialize in adagio, ballroom dancing or acrobatic dancing -- can earn even more. These dancers also act as dance instructors, teaching the guests how to perform the flamingo or the two-step, for instance. Dancers can earn even more than the $1,600 to $3,000 salary noted.

Singers and musicians are also an essential part of the entertainment offerings on a cruise. These individuals must be those with extensive experience and the ability to sing a range of musical styles from pop to jazz. They not only sing on stage but also sing in the many lounges, lobbies and dining rooms across the ship. A singer can earn from $1,600 to $3,000 per month. On some ships, a lounge singer will make up to $4,800 per month. If part of a band or duet, they can earn upwards of $7,000 and may be expected to play one or several musical instruments. Singers who are part of a larger production number can make between $2,400 and $3,800, but the pay will depend on the cruise line as some pay more than others.

Regardless of the time of day, disk jockeys are expected to play top tunes and get the guests excited while on the cruise ship. Disc jockeys must be knowledgeable about various musical genres and have experience. They can make between $1,700 and $2,700 per month.