This guide is updated weekly with the latest schedule for Carnival Cruise Directors, so you always know who’s set to lead the fun on your next cruise.
Planning your next Carnival cruise and curious about who your cruise director will be? Whether you’re sailing for the first time or you’re a returning Fun Ship fan, knowing who’s running the show can really shape your onboard experience.
Cruise directors are the life of the party, running everything from deck parties and trivia to game shows and late-night comedy.
This updated guide gives you the confirmed cruise director schedules for 2025 and 2026. Schedules can change (life happens, even at sea!), but here’s who’s currently slated to lead the fun on board some of Carnival’s most exciting ships.
Carnival Adventure Directors
Carnival Adventure is the newest member of the Carnival fleet — formerly a P&O Australia ship, she’s now fully Carnival-fied and packed with excitement.
As an Adventure-class ship, she can carry around 2,600 guests and comes in at just under 109,000 gross tons.
Here’s the latest on her cruise director rotation:
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Sophie Gideon | Nov 17, 2025 | Jan 24, 2026 |
| Felipe Do Couto | Jan 24, 2026 | Jun 5, 2026 |
| Lizzie Clough | Jun 1, 2026 | Aug 7, 2026 |
| Felipe Do Couto | Aug 7, 2026 | Nov 30, 2026 |
What to Expect: Michelle and Abbie are both high-energy and beloved by regular Carnival cruisers. Felipe will be onboard for a short but lively stint during the fall. If you’re sailing on Carnival Adventure in 2025 or early 2026, you’re in great hands.
Carnival Celebration Directors
As one of Carnival’s newest Excel-class ships, Celebration is an absolute showstopper with a guest capacity of over 5,200 and all the latest Carnival bells and whistles.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Louie Clare | Nov 2, 2025 | Jan 4, 2026 |
| Joey Boyes | Jan 11, 2026 | May 10, 2026 |
| Rainier Scholtz | May 3, 2026 | Jun 28, 2026 |
| Jacky Tang | Jun 21, 2026 | Nov 7, 2026 |
Insider Tip: Marty Pitts brings charisma and flair — and he’ll be pulling double duty with a break in between. Joseph Boyes takes the wheel for the early summer season, and Louie Clare wraps up the year with high-energy fun.
Carnival Breeze Directors
Carnival Breeze is a Dream-class ship, known for its fun tropical vibes and capacity for nearly 3,700 passengers. It’s been a guest favorite for years, and 2025 brings a packed entertainment schedule with some familiar faces.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Sinclair Hammerbach | Sep 8, 2025 | Jan 12, 2026 |
| Abbie Lockett | Jan 8, 2026 | Mar 14, 2026 |
| Sinclair Hammerbach | Mar 14, 2026 | Jul 13, 2026 |
| Adam Gilbert | Jul 9, 2026 | Sep 12, 2026 |
Cruise Director Insight: Louie Clare is a crowd favorite, known for his humor and energy, so expect a lively atmosphere onboard this summer. Sinclair and Crystal are also great hosts, and Sophie may be overlapping with Louie briefly, possibly for training or co-hosting.
Quick Tip: Why Cruise Directors Matter
Cruise directors do more than just tell you when bingo starts. They’re the heartbeat of your cruise, bringing energy, hosting theme nights, announcing schedule changes, and setting the mood from sail away to farewell.
Knowing who’ll be onboard can help you match your trip with the kind of vibe you’re after — relaxing and chill or wild and hilarious.
Carnival Conquest Directors
Carnival Conquest continues to deliver fun at sea with a blend of classic Carnival charm and vibrant entertainment.
As a Conquest-class ship, she hosts nearly 3,000 guests and cruises out of popular U.S. ports with a stellar team leading the entertainment lineup.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Victor Pastrana | Nov 3, 2025 | Jan 5, 2026 |
| George Cross | Jan 2, 2026 | Feb 6, 2026 |
| Rico Betancourt | May 15, 2026 | Jul 7, 2026 |
What to Expect: Robby Howell brings infectious energy to every sailing, while Dean Pompey is known for his crowd-pleasing humor. Expect game shows, dance-offs, and late-night laughs during your time onboard.
Note: There’s a slight overlap between Robby and Dean — this is typical during handovers to ensure smooth transitions and team introductions.
Carnival Elation Directors
The Fantasy-class Carnival Elation may be one of Carnival’s smaller ships (hosting just over 2,100 guests), but it’s full of charm — and backed by cruise directors who know how to throw a great onboard party.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Leo Alexander | Nov 3, 2025 | Jan 15, 2026 |
| Franco Spies | Feb 2, 2026 | Apr 27, 2026 |
| Amber Celen | Sep 5, 2026 | Jan 9, 2027 |
Onboard Energy: Franco is a familiar face with a loyal fan base, known for his smooth hosting and ability to energize even the most chill crowd. Stjepan brings a friendly, relaxed vibe, perfect for Elation’s intimate cruising experience.
Overlapping Contracts: You’ll notice Franco’s sign-off overlaps with Stjepan’s sign-on — this is part of Carnival’s routine onboarding process to ensure continuity for guests and entertainment teams.
Carnival Dream Directors
With over 3,600 guests onboard, the Dream-class Carnival Dream lives up to its name with large-scale productions, lively bars, and top-tier cruise directors. 2025 promises a mix of returning favorites and seasonal switch-ups.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Lawrence West | Feb 1, 2026 | Feb 7, 2026 |
| Filipe Mendes | Feb 1, 2026 | Mar 3, 2026 |
| Filipe Mendes | Mar 16, 2026 | Apr 18, 2026 |
| Lawrence West | Apr 18, 2026 | Aug 16, 2026 |
Cruise Director Insight: Lawrence West is a Carnival regular known for bringing both heart and humor to every cruise. Gabriella Gamboa opens the year with vibrant energy and personal connection, perfect for guests who love engaging, upbeat experiences.
Cruising Tip: Want a quieter stateroom? Choose midship and away from elevators for the best rest between dance parties and trivia marathons.
Cruise Planning Tip
If you’re planning a Carnival cruise and wondering when your favorite director will be onboard, keep this guide bookmarked — but also check closer to your sail date.
Schedules can shift due to personal leave, health, or special projects. And if you’re flexible? Consider picking your sail date based on who’s running the show!
Carnival Firenze Directors
One of Carnival’s newest ships, Carnival Firenze, made waves in 2023 after being converted from the Costa Venezia.
She now blends Italian elegance with Carnival’s laid-back party vibe, carrying up to 4,126 guests as a Venice-class ship.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Keegan Van Zyl | Oct 30, 2025 | Jan 12, 2026 |
| Zack Paiement-Dockrill | Jan 8, 2026 | Mar 9, 2026 |
Cruise Director Insight: Keegan Van Zyl returns in multiple stints throughout the year, which tells you how popular and trusted he is. His energy is infectious, and he’s got a loyal following of cruisers who plan sailings just to catch his shows.
Scheduling Note: While Keegan’s the star for much of the year, Carnival hasn’t yet confirmed who will fill in during his breaks in July and late October, so keep an eye on schedule updates if you’re sailing during those windows.
Carnival Encounter Directors
Joining the Carnival fleet as one of the former P&O Australia ships, Carnival Encounter brings bold adventures and a fresh feel to the fleet.
As an Adventure-class ship, it accommodates up to 2,600 guests, offering an exciting blend of Carnival fun and Aussie spirit.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Lia Stivers | Oct 11, 2025 | Feb 16, 2026 |
| Sophie Gideon | Feb 26, 2026 | May 8, 2026 |
What to Expect: George Cross is known for his sharp humor and ability to turn any trivia night into a comedy show. Ben Kitchen follows up with a guest-focused approach that combines high energy with memorable moments.
Cruise Tip: If you’re cruising in spring or summer 2025, expect non-stop themed parties, games, and surprise performances from two of Carnival’s most personable cruise directors.
Carnival Freedom Directors
The Conquest-class Carnival Freedom carries just under 3,000 passengers and delivers exactly what her name promises — the freedom to relax, party, and soak up endless entertainment across sea days and port adventures.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Todd Evans | Nov 8, 2025 | Mar 14, 2026 |
| Rico Betancourt | Mar 9, 2026 | May 14, 2026 |
| Todd Evans | May 14, 2026 | Sep 1, 2026 |
Carnival Glory Directors
Carnival Glory is a Conquest-class ship that combines Carnival’s classic charm with a festive, colorful personality. She sails with up to 2,980 passengers, and in 2025, she’s got a fan-favorite cruise director at the helm.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Rico Betancourt | Sep 8, 2025 | Jan 9, 2026 |
| John Loney | Jan 5, 2026 | Mar 2, 2026 |
| Andy Mercer | Feb 27, 2026 | Mar 25, 2026 |
Cruise Director Insight: Ricardo is returning for multiple contracts in 2025, which is great news for guests who love his fun, high-energy vibe. He has a way of making everyone feel like part of the Carnival family — from deck parties to farewell shows.
Note: His July–September break hasn’t been filled (yet), so stay tuned if you’re cruising during that period.
Carnival Jubilee Directors
As one of Carnival’s newest Excel-class ships, Jubilee is a massive floating resort, welcoming over 5,200 guests with state-of-the-art amenities. She’s drawing some of the biggest names in Carnival’s cruise director team in 2025–2026.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Andy Mercer | Aug 9, 2025 | Jan 10, 2026 |
| Kyndall Fire | Jan 8, 2026 | May 9, 2026 |
| Louie Clare | May 9, 2026 | Jul 11, 2026 |
| Kyndall Fire | Jul 11, 2026 | Nov 14, 2026 |
Cruise Director Highlights:
- Kyndall Fire brings non-stop energy and is one of Carnival’s most beloved cruise directors.
- Louie Clare and Gabby Gamboa bring their own flair before and after Kyndall’s stint.
- Andrew Mercer finishes out the year into early 2026 — he’s known for his engaging personality and love of themed nights.
- Sophie Gideon’s short overlap may be a handoff or special engagement.
Expect big events, high-octane shows, and deck parties that go late into the night.
Carnival Horizon Directors
One of the Vista-class ships, Carnival Horizon, is a big, bold beauty that holds over 4,000 passengers and comes loaded with attractions, from a skyride to the IMAX theatre. In 2025, she’ll feature several well-known cruise directors rotating throughout the year.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Tyler Meehan | Sep 27, 2025 | Feb 22, 2026 |
| Deon Williams | Feb 14, 2026 | May 23, 2026 |
| Marq Anthony | May 17, 2026 | Sep 20, 2026 |
| Zack Paiement-Dockrill | Sep 12, 2026 | Jan 16, 2027 |
Who’s Who:
- Tyler Meehan returns for two major stretches, bringing his infectious energy and quick wit to the main stage.
- Sophie Gideon is scheduled for a brief two-week appearance (possibly training or assisting).
- George Cross steps in for a couple of months to keep the fun going before Tyler returns again.
Pro Tip: For cruisers who love back-to-back cruises, Horizon’s consistent rotation of familiar cruise directors makes it a great pick.
Guest Tip
Jubilee and Horizon are great picks if you want that mega-ship, high-energy experience, while Glory delivers a slightly more laid-back vibe with familiar cruise director favorites. Either way, you’re guaranteed memorable entertainment across the board.
Carnival Legend Directors
Carnival Legend is a Spirit-class ship carrying just over 2,100 guests, making her a great choice for cruisers who prefer a more intimate experience — without sacrificing fun. In 2025, the cruise director lineup is a dynamic duo of Carnival personalities.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Filipe Mendes | Nov 6, 2025 | Jan 15, 2026 |
| Adam Gilbert | Jan 15, 2026 | Apr 29, 2026 |
| Simon London | May 15, 2026 | Nov 16, 2026 |
Director Vibes:
- Adam Gilbert is hilarious and theatrical — expect big laughs at comedy nights and plenty of audience interaction.
- Frankie Portera fills the gap with his own signature energy — upbeat, friendly, and always engaging with guests on deck or in the atrium.
Fun Fact: Spirit-class ships like Legend are great for scenic cruising thanks to their narrower design, ideal for Alaska or European itineraries.
Carnival Liberty Directors
As another Conquest-class ship, Carnival Liberty hosts around 2,980 guests and delivers a fun mix of activities, entertainment, and food, perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers. In 2025, it’s all about Gabriel Coppolla.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Paully Munhollon | Nov 9, 2025 | Mar 7, 2026 |
| Gabe Coppolla | May 3, 2026 | Aug 30, 2026 |
Director’s Insight: Gabriel’s vibrant, fun-loving style makes him a favorite for family cruises and social travelers alike. His return in late June suggests Carnival guests asked for more — and got it!
Schedule Note: There’s a short break in between his contracts, and Carnival hasn’t announced who’s filling in just yet — but it’s worth checking back if you’re cruising in May or June.
Carnival Luminosa Directors
Carnival Luminosa is a Spirit-class ship that once sailed for Costa Cruises. Now part of Carnival’s fleet, she offers elegant décor, global itineraries, and can carry up to 2,260 passengers.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Michelle O’Callaghan | Oct 26, 2025 | Jan 11, 2026 |
| Louie Clare | Jan 8, 2026 | Mar 9, 2026 |
| Keegan Van Zyl | Feb 26, 2026 | Jun 22, 2026 |
What to Expect:
- Zack Paiement-Dockrill is making multiple appearances in 2025 — which speaks volumes about his popularity.
- William “Paully” Munhollon brings his signature Southern charm and humor for a spring run.
- Michelle O’Callaghan joins to close out the year with warmth, energy, and a loyal following of guests.
Cruising Insight: Luminosa often sails longer itineraries and unique routes — perfect for seasoned cruisers looking to explore beyond the basics.
Cruise Tip of the Day
If you’re cruising in 2025 and want to sail with a specific cruise director, it’s worth matching your vacation window with their schedule. Many of these directors have loyal fans who sail just to catch their favorite host again — and it’s easy to see why!
Carnival Magic Directors
The aptly named Carnival Magic is a Dream-class ship hosting nearly 3,700 guests, offering a fantastic mix of activities, entertainment, and space to relax. With a strong lineup of cruise directors in 2025, Magic promises non-stop fun.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Rainier Scholtz | Nov 9, 2025 | Mar 15, 2026 |
Onboard Energy:
- Todd Evans delivers a lively, interactive style that guests love, especially for poolside games and theme nights.
- Sophie Gideon continues her Carnival rise with back-to-back roles, bringing a fun, high-spirited vibe.
- Rainier Scholtz brings international flair and polish, making the fall/winter cruises on Magic extra memorable.
Planning Note: If you’re cruising between October and November, there’s a brief gap in published CD schedules, so stay tuned for updates.
Mardi Gras Directors
As one of Carnival’s Excel-class flagships, Mardi Gras sets the standard for next-gen cruising. With over 5,200 guests, six themed zones, and Bolt — the first roller coaster at sea — it’s only fitting that her cruise director lineup is stacked with talent.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Jacky Tang | Dec 6, 2025 | Apr 18, 2026 |
| Andy Mercer | Apr 4, 2026 | Jul 11, 2026 |
| Joey Boyes | Jul 4, 2026 | Nov 7, 2026 |
Cruise Director Highlights:
- Rainier Scholtz starts off the season with energetic hosting and international flair.
- Jacky Tang, a fan-favorite, returns for a long stretch in summer.
- Deon Williams comes in for two separate stints — short and sweet in July, and a longer holiday run starting in October.
Expect vibrant deck parties, immersive shows, and surprises throughout — Mardi Gras doesn’t do boring.
Carnival Miracle Directors
The Spirit-class Carnival Miracle may be a bit smaller (around 2,100 guests), but she delivers big personality, especially with the cruise directors Carnival has planned for late 2025 and early 2026.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Frankie Portera | Nov 20, 2025 | Jan 17, 2026 |
| Gary Blair | Jan 17, 2026 | May 21, 2026 |
| Frankie Portera | May 21, 2026 | Jul 23, 2026 |
| Gary Blair | Jul 23, 2026 | Nov 23, 2026 |
What to Expect:
- Gary Blair is witty, fast-paced, and great with all ages. His long stint on Miracle means you’ll likely catch him if you’re cruising in the summer or fall.
- Frankie Portera takes over just in time for holiday sailings, ensuring your cruise season ends with a bang (and probably a few costume changes).
Miracle Tip: This ship often sails to less-traveled ports, so pair that quieter itinerary with a cruise director known for keeping guests engaged and energized.
Carnival Panorama Directors
As one of Carnival’s Vista-class ships, Panorama delivers a big-ship experience with sleek design, a sky ride, and plenty of family fun. She carries just over 4,000 guests and sails the West Coast with a rotating cast of cruise director favorites.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Simon London | Aug 30, 2025 | Feb 8, 2026 |
| George Cross | Feb 8, 2026 | May 3, 2026 |
| Zack Paiement-Dockrill | Apr 28, 2026 | Jul 18, 2026 |
| George Cross | Jul 18, 2026 | Nov 15, 2026 |
Entertainment Rundown:
- Andrew Mercer is a guest favorite known for his high energy and ability to make everyone feel like part of the Carnival family.
- Rainier Scholtz brings a refined touch with plenty of personality to keep the fun rolling all summer long.
- Simon London wraps up the year, bringing a blend of British wit and showmanship just in time for the holiday and winter cruises.
Pro Tip: If you’re booking for late August or early September, you might catch a brief overlap — always a fun bonus when two cruise directors are onboard!
Carnival Paradise Directors
The Fantasy-class Paradise may be one of Carnival’s smaller ships with just over 2,100 guests, but she’s packed with personality and sails short, value-packed itineraries that are perfect for a quick getaway.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Edgar Toscano Murillo | Oct 9, 2025 | Jan 10, 2026 |
| Sofia Tosches | Jan 5, 2026 | Mar 7, 2026 |
Cruise Director Vibe:
- John Loney is warm, fun, and personable — exactly what you want when you’re squeezing maximum fun into a short cruise.
- Paully brings Southern charm, laid-back humor, and guest engagement that makes every sea day feel like a party.
Paradise Tip: This ship often sails shorter itineraries from Florida, so it’s great for cruisers looking for a fun weekend or budget-friendly escape.
Carnival Pride Directors
Carnival Pride is a Spirit-class ship that balances elegance and fun, with room for 2,124 guests and beautifully themed spaces. She’s known for scenic sailings and a strong lineup of cruise directors in 2025.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Kieran Wilson | Oct 26, 2025 | Mar 15, 2026 |
| Frankie Portera | Apr 4, 2026 | May 17, 2026 |
Carnival Radiance Directors
Carnival Radiance is a Sunshine-class ship with room for just under 3,000 guests, and she’s the perfect choice for short, energetic getaways. With a focus on fun and fast-paced entertainment, Radiance’s cruise directors help pack a punch even on shorter itineraries.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Vanessa Fredrich | Oct 3, 2025 | Nov 17, 2025 |
| Gabe Coppolla | Nov 17, 2025 | Feb 26, 2026 |
Director Vibes:
- Kieran Wilson brings an energetic stage presence and cruise veteran leadership — great for first-timers and repeat guests alike.
- Lia Stivers returns later in the year with her lively, welcoming style and strong rapport with guests.
Note: Carnival hasn’t yet confirmed who will be sailing between May and August, so if you’re cruising mid-year, check back closer to your sail date for updates.
Carnival Spirit Directors
Carnival Spirit, another Spirit-class ship, accommodates just over 2,100 passengers and often sails unique itineraries. With a flexible rotation of experienced cruise directors, Spirit offers a warm, personal atmosphere even on long sailings.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| James Love | Nov 2, 2025 | Mar 8, 2026 |
| Michelle O’Callaghan | Mar 1, 2026 | May 5, 2026 |
| James Love | May 5, 2026 | Sep 8, 2026 |
Onboard Energy:
- Alex Siegler is back twice in 2025, and cruisers love his blend of humor, quick wit, and energy.
- Sinclair Hammerbach covers summer sailings and adds his own flavor with relaxed charm and great crowd work.
- Frankie Portera closes out the fall with his signature cruise director charisma and crowd-pleasing antics.
Scheduling Note: Some overlap exists between Alex and Frankie — a common hand-off technique that ensures smooth transitions for entertainment teams.
Carnival Splendor Directors
Carnival Splendor is the only ship in her class, boasting 113,573 gross tons and space for over 3,000 guests. She’s a unique experience, and 2025 brings a mix of seasoned entertainers to take the stage.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Lizzie Clough | Sep 17, 2025 | Jan 24, 2026 |
| Ben Kitchen | Jan 16, 2026 | Apr 2, 2026 |
| Lizzie Clough | Apr 2, 2026 | May 30, 2026 |
| Ben Kitchen | May 30, 2026 | Oct 1, 2026 |
Who’s Onboard:
- Elizabeth Clough adds a fresh, friendly presence to spring cruises and has quickly built a fan base of her own.
- Michelle O’Callaghan brings warmth and cruise expertise, especially for longer, immersive itineraries.
Splendor Tip: With some overlapping dates, guests may get lucky and experience a two-director cruise — always a treat for entertainment lovers.
Insider Take
Splendor offers big-stage entertainment with polished cruise directors across the board
Radiance is ideal for quick, high-energy sailings, with Kieran and Lia keeping things exciting
Spirit boasts a rotating lineup of fan-favorites like Alex, Sinclair, and Frankie
Carnival Sunrise Directors
Carnival Sunrise, part of the Sunshine-class, hosts nearly 3,000 guests and sails popular short and mid-length itineraries. The 2025 cruise director schedule is filled with charisma and crowd favorites.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| John Loney | Sep 29, 2025 | Nov 24, 2025 |
| Abbie Lockett | Nov 24, 2025 | Jan 5, 2026 |
| Cryssi St Cyr | Dec 31, 2025 | Mar 2026 |
Who’s Hosting:
- Christian “Deon” Williams brings unmatched energy and warmth — a top pick for cruisers who love personality-driven entertainment.
Cruise Tip: Deon’s dual contracts give fans more opportunities to sail with him — and trust us, he’s worth it.
Carnival Sunshine Directors
Carnival Sunshine is another Sunshine-class ship known for vibrant sailings and lively cruise directors. With space for 3,000+ guests, she offers the full Carnival experience on a slightly smaller scale.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Amber Celen | Sep 6, 2025 | Jan 10, 2026 |
| Sara Taskoski | Jan 4, 2026 | Mar 7, 2026 |
| Amber Celen | Mar 7, 2026 | Jul 5, 2026 |
| Alex Siegler | Jun 28, 2026 | Nov 8, 2026 |
Highlights:
- Sam Thurgood makes his debut and is expected to bring fresh energy and great guest interaction.
- James Love returns with charm, humor, and crowd control — ideal for families and social cruisers.
Did You Know? Sunshine often sails from Charleston, a hidden gem of a port with southern charm and easy access.
Carnival Valor Directors
Carnival Valor, a Conquest-class ship, hosts nearly 3,000 passengers and keeps the fun rolling year-round. For 2025, guests will be treated to some of Carnival’s most charismatic hosts.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Dean Pompey | Sep 15, 2025 | Jan 15, 2026 |
| Alex Siegler | Jan 10, 2026 | May 11, 2026 |
Onboard Vibe:
- Felipe brings humor, professionalism, and international flair. He’s on board for most of the year.
- Dean Pompey offers a fantastic mid-year fill-in that’s anything but a placeholder — he’s dynamic and beloved.
Tip: Watch for announcements on who may take over post-September — schedules can change or extend.
Carnival Vista Directors
Carnival Vista is a Vista-class ship with a guest capacity of 3,934 and features like SkyRide and the Havana Bar. Her 2025 cruise director lineup is filled with familiar faces.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Marq Anthony | Nov 9, 2025 | Mar 15, 2026 |
| Mike D’Auria | Mar 7, 2026 | May 2, 2026 |
| Tyler Meehan | Apr 26, 2026 | Aug 30, 2026 |
What to Expect:
- Frankie Portera is back for spring and always delivers with humor and crowd engagement.
- Marq Anthony keeps things lively throughout the summer with themed parties, big-stage presence, and fantastic voiceovers.
Vista Tip: Vista tends to attract younger crowds and active families — these two directors keep up with the pace perfectly.
Carnival Venezia Directors
Carnival Venezia is a Venice-class ship formerly operated by Costa Cruises. With 4,208 guests, she blends European style with Carnival’s signature energy — and she’s got an exciting CD lineup in 2025.
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| Mike D’Auria | Oct 6, 2025 | Jan 11, 2026 |
| Robby Howell | Jan 4, 2026 | May 3, 2026 |
| Mike D’Auria | May 3, 2026 | Jul 1, 2026 |
Entertainment Style:
- Michael D’Auria brings heartfelt humor and connection — guests often rave about his ability to make every activity feel special.
- Joey Boyes keeps the energy high and is well-known among repeat cruisers.
Cruise Tip: Venezia’s unique layout and European-inspired design pair beautifully with a personable cruise director. Pick your sailing based on who fits your vibe!
FAQs About Carnival Cruise Directors
Q: Is the cruise director’s schedule final?
Not always. Schedules can shift last-minute due to illness, family emergencies, or internal reshuffling. Carnival does its best to maintain consistency but flexibility is key.
Q: How many cruise directors does Carnival have?
Carnival rotates approximately 30–40 cruise directors among its 27+ ships. Some cruise directors specialize in launches, holidays, or certain guest demographics.
Q: How long do cruise directors stay onboard?
Contracts vary — some stay 6–8 weeks, others for 3–4 months. Overlaps are common for smoother transitions.
Q: How much do Carnival cruise directors earn?
Salaries vary based on experience and ship size, but on average, they make around $60,000 per year, plus free travel, room, food, and benefits like discounted family cruises.
Follow Your Favorite Cruise Directors on Social Media
Many Carnival cruise directors are super active online! Follow them to get updates, behind-the-scenes content, and maybe even say hi before your cruise:
- Erin Weigand Facebook Page
- Adam Gilbert Facebook Page
- Alex Siegler Facebook Page
- Chris (Donkey) Salazar Facebook Page
- Andy Mercer Facebook Page
- Cam Chavis Facebook Page
- Chris Williams (The Flying Scotsman) Instagram
- Christian Deon Williams Instagram
- Georgia Craig Facebook Page
- Jacky Tang Facebook Page
- James Love Facebook Page
- Christian De La Rosa Instagram
- Jasper Wade Facebook Page
- Jonathan Adams (Cookie) Facebook Page
- Kyndall Fire Facebook Page
- Lawrence West Facebook Page
- Lee Mason (Lee Your Cruise Director) Facebook Page
- Ryan Rose Instagram
- Leon Smith Facebook Page
- Marq Anthony Facebook Page
- Savannah Mitchell Facebook Page
- Simon London Facebook Page
- TJ Partida Facebook
- Melessa Durrant Instagram
Final Thoughts
From Carnival Magic to Jubilee, and from Vista to Venezia, every cruise director brings something different to the party. Whether you’re sailing with a fan-favorite or meeting someone new, you’re in for non-stop fun, themed nights, and unforgettable entertainment.
Bookmark this guide, and check back often — schedules get updated weekly and your next favorite CD might be announced soon!
