Wondering who’s running the show on your upcoming Royal Caribbean cruise?
Whether you’re crossing your fingers to sail with your favorite cruise director or just curious about who’s in charge of the fun.
Here’s a breakdown of each ship’s entertainment lead for 2025 — starting with ships from Adventure of the Seas to Wonder of the Seas.
Cruise Director Schedule Tips
- This schedule updates frequently due to contract changes, fleet movements, or personal leave.
- “TBA” just means details haven’t been finalized or published yet.
- If your favorite cruise director isn’t listed — keep checking! New updates come weekly.
Adventure of the Seas
John Blair is bringing his signature energy to Adventure of the Seas this year. He’s been onboard since early July and will be leading entertainment through the end of October 2025. Expect lively pool games, interactive trivia, and a whole lot of laughs.
- Ship Class: Voyager-class
- Gross Tonnage: 137,276
- Max Guests: 3,807
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| JOHN BLAIR | 02/07/2025 | 10/31/2025 |
Allure of the Seas
Mercedes Lafuente is currently lighting up Allure of the Seas with her upbeat style and enthusiasm. She joined in mid-April 2025 and is still onboard. If you’re cruising anytime soon, there’s a good chance she’ll be your entertainment guide.
- Ship Class: Oasis-class
- Gross Tonnage: 225,282
- Max Guests: 6,780
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| MERCEDES LAFUENTE | Mid-April 2025 | TBA |
Anthem of the Seas
Fan favorite Ricky Matthews is hopping aboard Anthem of the Seas in early July and will stay through early September 2025. Known for his hilarious stage presence and warm interactions, Ricky keeps the vibes high from morning to night.
- Ship Class: Quantum-class
- Gross Tonnage: 168,666
- Max Guests: 4,905
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| RICKY MATTHEWS | 07/04/2025 | 09/05/2025 |
Brilliance of the Seas
Katheryn Falcon is currently onboard Brilliance of the Seas, dazzling guests with her charisma and charm. She’ll be hosting events and leading the fun through early October 2025.
- Ship Class: Radiance-class
- Gross Tonnage: 90,090
- Max Guests: 2,543
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| KATHERYN FALCON | Now | 10/05/2025 |
Enchantment of the Seas
Sheenagh Walker has been leading the entertainment on Enchantment of the Seas since December 2024 and will wrap up her stint mid-June 2025. Guests love her fun-loving personality and knack for creating unforgettable cruise moments.
- Ship Class: Vision-class
- Gross Tonnage: 82,910
- Max Guests: 2,730
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| SHEENAGH WALKER | 12/20/2024 | 06/19/2025 |
Explorer of the Seas
Mark Rous boarded Explorer of the Seas in early March 2025 and continues to bring high-energy entertainment and variety to the ship. No sign-off date has been shared yet, so cruisers this year are in luck.
- Ship Class: Voyager-class
- Gross Tonnage: 137,308
- Max Guests: 3,840
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| MARK ROUS | 03/02/2025 | TBA |
Freedom of the Seas
Caroline Peters is currently listed as the cruise director aboard Freedom of the Seas, though her contract dates haven’t been made public. What we do know: her passion for guest interaction and lively show hosting always leaves a lasting impression.
- Ship Class: Freedom-class
- Gross Tonnage: 156,271
- Max Guests: 4,515
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| CAROLINE PETERS | Unknown | TBA |
Grandeur of the Seas
Marvin Wilson is currently steering the fun on Grandeur of the Seas. While the specific dates of his contract aren’t available yet, you can count on his veteran experience and guest-focused energy to keep things lively onboard.
- Ship Class: Vision-class
- Gross Tonnage: 73,817
- Max Guests: 2,440
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| MARVIN WILSON | Unknown | TBA |
Harmony of the Seas
Mario Isla came aboard Harmony of the Seas at the end of March 2025, and he’s been keeping the decks buzzing ever since. Known for his vibrant stage presence and crowd connection, he’s expected to stay on for a while.
- Ship Class: Oasis-class
- Gross Tonnage: 226,963
- Max Guests: 6,687
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| MARIO ISLA | 03/30/2025 | TBA |
Icon of the Seas
Gemma Hugo took the helm as cruise director on Icon of the Seas starting March 1, 2025. With her sparkling personality and magnetic energy, she’s helping lead the entertainment charge aboard Royal Caribbean’s groundbreaking new ship.
- Ship Class: Icon-class
- Gross Tonnage: 250,800
- Max Guests: 7,600
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| GEMMA HUGO | 03/01/2025 | TBA |
Independence of the Seas
Natalie Rosie is currently serving as cruise director on Independence of the Seas. While her official start date isn’t public, she’s already won over guests with her upbeat presence and engaging activity hosting.
- Ship Class: Freedom-class
- Gross Tonnage: 155,889
- Max Guests: 4,560
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| NATALIE ROSIE | Unknown | TBA |
Jewel of the Seas
If you’re sailing on Jewel of the Seas in early 2025, Thiago Motta will be your cruise director. In June, he’ll hand off the mic to Jamie Fentiman, who’s well-known for his upbeat vibe and crowd interaction. Both bring their own style to the Radiance-class ship.
- Ship Class: Radiance-class
- Gross Tonnage: 90,090
- Max Guests: 2,501
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| THIAGO MOTTA | 01/23/2025 | June 2025 |
| JAMIE FENTIMAN | June 2025 | TBA |
Liberty of the Seas
Tornado Tanya kicked off 2025 with a fun-filled stint on Liberty of the Seas, running the show until mid-May. After a short gap, Cory Rogers will take over in July through August. Each brings unique flair and fun, so guests are in for a treat either way.
- Ship Class: Freedom-class
- Gross Tonnage: 154,407
- Max Guests: 4,960
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| TORNADO TANYA | 01/24/2025 | 05/15/2025 |
| CORY ROGERS | 07/07/2025 | August 2025 |
Navigator of the Seas
Daniel Gilham took over entertainment duties on Navigator of the Seas in late April 2025. With his quick wit and upbeat style, he’s been energizing the ship’s entertainment offerings and is expected to stick around for a while.
- Ship Class: Voyager-class
- Gross Tonnage: 139,999
- Max Guests: 4,000
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| DANIEL GILHAM | 04/25/2025 | TBA |
Oasis of the Seas
Elvis Pinto boarded Oasis of the Seas in early March and is now commanding the mic on this massive floating city. His fun-loving style and show-stopping presence make him a great fit for one of the largest ships in the fleet.
- Ship Class: Oasis-class
- Gross Tonnage: 226,838
- Max Guests: 6,780
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| ELVIS PINTO | 03/08/2025 | TBA |
Odyssey of the Seas
Mey Lau stepped into the spotlight on Odyssey of the Seas in mid-March 2025. Known for her connection with guests and commanding event presence, she’s expected to continue delighting cruisers for the foreseeable future.
- Ship Class: Quantum Ultra-class
- Gross Tonnage: 167,704
- Max Guests: 5,510
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| MEY LAU | 03/16/2025 | TBA |
Ovation of the Seas
Ricky Matthews kicked off the year on Ovation of the Seas in March 2025 and will be on deck until mid-May. After that, Brian Leavitt steps in — a seasoned Royal Caribbean talent known for his dynamic energy and guest-focused style.
- Ship Class: Quantum-class
- Gross Tonnage: 168,666
- Max Guests: 4,905
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| RICKY MATTHEWS | 03/15/2025 | 05/15/2025 |
| BRIAN LEAVITT | 05/15/2025 | TBA |
Quantum of the Seas
Bal Gabor joined Quantum of the Seas in early March 2025, bringing a cool mix of humor, enthusiasm, and crowd connection to the entertainment lineup. No word yet on when he’s signing off, so cruisers this year are likely to catch him in action.
- Ship Class: Quantum-class
- Gross Tonnage: 168,666
- Max Guests: 4,905
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| BAL GABOR | 03/07/2025 | TBA |
Radiance of the Seas
Bill Brunkhorst took over as cruise director on Radiance of the Seas in mid-February 2025 and continues to lead the onboard entertainment. Guests love his approachable style and fun-loving attitude.
- Ship Class: Radiance-class
- Gross Tonnage: 90,090
- Max Guests: 2,466
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| BILL BRUNKHORST | 02/15/2025 | TBA |
Rhapsody of the Seas
Michele Scarpato is currently in charge of fun on Rhapsody of the Seas. While the sign-on date hasn’t been revealed, guests onboard now can count on his lively hosting and personable energy.
- Ship Class: Vision-class
- Gross Tonnage: 78,878
- Max Guests: 2,416
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| MICHELE SCARPATO | Unknown | TBA |
Serenade of the Seas
Talita Leoni is bringing her vibrant flair to Serenade of the Seas this season. Her official dates may be under wraps, but her presence onboard is unmistakable — keeping events smooth and crowds engaged.
- Ship Class: Radiance-class
- Gross Tonnage: 90,090
- Max Guests: 2,476
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| TALITA LEONI | Unknown | TBA |
Spectrum of the Seas
Bonnie Bai has been the cruise director on Spectrum of the Seas since February 2024 — and yes, she’s still going strong well into 2025. With deep experience and guest-centered charm, she’s a favorite in Asia-Pacific itineraries.
- Ship Class: Quantum Ultra-class
- Gross Tonnage: 169,379
- Max Guests: 4,905
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| BONNIE BAI | 02/12/2024 | TBA |
Star of the Seas
Mike Szwajkowski will become the first cruise director for Star of the Seas as she debuts in August 2025. Joining in May to prepare for launch, Mike will be at the helm of fun as this Icon-class megaship enters service.
- Ship Class: Icon-class
- Gross Tonnage: ~250,800
- Max Guests: ~7,600
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| MIKE SZWAJKOWSKI | May 2025 | TBA |
Symphony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas kicked off 2025 with John Grantham as cruise director, who will hand off the mic in late May to Steve Knisley. Both are known for their dynamic personalities and stage presence, so either way, guests are in good hands.
- Ship Class: Oasis-class
- Gross Tonnage: 228,081
- Max Guests: 6,680
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| JOHN GRANTHAM | 01/26/2025 | 05/30/2025 |
| STEVE KNISLEY | 05/30/2025 | TBA |
Utopia of the Seas
Utopia’s cruise director schedule is stacked! Marc Walker kicks things off in mid-March through early July, then hands things off to Dan Whitney until October.
After that, Marc returns through January 2026 — so if you love consistency (and killer pool parties), Utopia delivers.
- Ship Class: Oasis-class
- Gross Tonnage: ~236,860
- Max Guests: ~6,700
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| MARC WALKER | 03/17/2025 | 07/07/2025 |
| DAN WHITNEY | 06/30/2025 | 10/03/2025 |
| MARC WALKER | 10/03/2025 | 01/30/2026 |
Vision of the Seas
Dominic Richard signed on in late March and is currently heading up the entertainment scene aboard Vision of the Seas. With an easygoing vibe and solid leadership, he’s a great match for this intimate, classic-style ship.
- Ship Class: Vision-class
- Gross Tonnage: 78,717
- Max Guests: 2,514
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| DOMINIC RICHARD | 03/29/2025 | TBA |
Voyager of the Seas
Eric Rodas joined Voyager of the Seas in late April and is currently leading the onboard fun. Known for his magnetic stage presence, Eric ensures guests stay entertained from dawn till dance party.
- Ship Class: Voyager-class
- Gross Tonnage: 138,194
- Max Guests: 4,269
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| ERIC RODAS | 04/28/2025 | TBA |
Wonder of the Seas
Dan Whitney opens the year on Wonder of the Seas, staying until mid-September when Ricky Matthews takes over through late November. Both bring charisma and cruise director magic to this record-breaking megaship.
- Ship Class: Oasis-class
- Gross Tonnage: 236,857
- Max Guests: 6,988
| Cruise Director | Sign On | Sign Off |
|---|---|---|
| DAN WHITNEY | 01/12/2025 | 09/12/2025 |
| RICKY MATTHEWS | 09/12/2025 | 11/28/2025 |
What Exactly Does a Cruise Director Do?
Think of your cruise director as the master of ceremonies for your vacation. From the moment you board, they’re the ones orchestrating your onboard entertainment — whether it’s poolside competitions, game shows, karaoke nights, or that all-important sailaway party.
Cruise directors work closely with the entertainment team and hotel leadership to make sure everything runs smoothly — and most importantly, that you’re having a blast.
They’re also the ones keeping you in the loop with daily announcements and updates on must-see events.
🛳 Fun Fact: Royal Caribbean cruise directors often rotate across ships or jump in temporarily to cover leaves. Sometimes, you might even see two directors overlap briefly to allow a smooth handoff.
So if you’ve got a favorite cruise director? Bookmark this guide and plan your sailing accordingly!
