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Manager, Recreation & Attractions at Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line No longer available

Job Description

Every day at Disney Cruise Line we take pride in bringing the magic of Disney to life. We find joy in creating cherished memories and form genuine connections with our guests. We hold each other to the highest degree and always act responsibly while ensuring the safety of fellow cast, crew and guests. United by our Disney values, we work toward excellence in all we do. As a part of our team, you can work in a diverse and inclusive environment amidst a professional and supportive community. If you are ready to create unforgettable experiences and grow as a person and as a professional, apply today. The Manager, Recreation and Attractions Operations is a leadership role based in Celebration, FL, with regular travel to ships and island destinations such as Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay. The manager supports and optimizes daily operations of shipboard and island recreation teams, ensuring seamless, safe, and innovative guest experiences aligned with Disney's values and standards. This position reports to the Senior Manager of Port Adventures, Recreation & Attractions Operations. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Oversee all recreation and attractions activities onboard ships and at island destinations to maintain consistency, safety, and operational excellence. Collaborate with leadership teams on ships and islands to implement best practices, resolve operational challenges, and drive continuous improvement. Act as the primary communication link between shoreside, shipboard, and island teams for recreation and attractions operations. Guest Experience & Safety Ensure recreation and attractions offerings deliver exceptional guest experiences, championing the Disney Difference. Enforce safety and security protocols, including compliance with Safety Management System (SMS) and Lifeguard Operations Guidelines (LOGs). Lead incident response and risk mitigation in partnership with island and shipboard teams. Staffing & Talent Development Support recruitment, onboarding, scheduling, and rotation of staff for both shipboard and island operations. Mentor and develop leaders and frontline cast members, fostering teamwork, inclusion, and professional growth. Participate in succession planning and talent management to ensure operational continuity. Operational Integration & Innovation Partner with cross-functional teams such as Commercial/Port Strategy, Risk Management, and Product Development to integrate new products, technologies, and processes. Provide feedback for change management and continuous improvement of offerings. Contribute to annual operating plans and budgets for recreation and attractions. Island Recreation Operations (Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point & Castaway Cay) Support unique operational needs including staffing, training, vendor management, and guest flow optimization at island destinations. Collaborate with island leadership to prepare for high-volume days, special events, and new product launches. Oversee sustainability, accessibility, and cultural integration initiatives at the islands. Basic Qualifications Minimum of 5+ years leadership experience in recreation, attractions, hospitality, or related environments, preferably in cruise line, resort, or theme park settings. Proven ability to lead diverse teams in high-volume, fast-paced environments. Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills. Experience with safety management, guest service, and operational integration. Bachelor's degree in hospitality, tourism, business, or equivalent experience. The role requires regular travel to ships and island destinations. Flexibility to work varied hours, including weekends and holidays, as operational needs dictate. Desired Qualification Experience in shipboard or island recreation is strongly preferred. Demonstrated ability to collaborate across departments and with external partners. Passion for delivering magical guest experiences and developing future leaders.

Typical mid-level pay: $77k for Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling nationally

National salary averages
Expected mid-level
$77k
Entry
Mid
Senior
Expected
$45k Market range (10th-90th percentile) $135k

Senior roles pay 74% more than entry—experience is well rewarded.

Slight candidate advantage

Strong hiring activity gives you options. Use competing offers strategically.

Hiring leverage
Candidate-favored
Wage leverage
Balanced
Mobility
Moderate

Who this leverage applies to

Stronger for: Senior candidates with options

Where to negotiate

Base salary
Sign-on bonus
Title / level
Remote flexibility
Scope & responsibility
Start date / PTO

Likely Possible Unlikely

Use competing offers and timing to your advantage.

Does this path compound?

Job Growth →
High churn
Growth, flat pay
🚀 Compound
Growth + pay upside
⚠️ Plateau
Limited growth
Specialize
Experts earn more
Pay Upside →
Growth + pay upside

Both the field and your earnings can grow significantly.

+8%
10yr growth
A bachelor's degree is typically expected.
Typical: Bachelor's degree

Openings come from turnover, not new growth. Differentiate to advance.

Labor data: BLS 2024