Server - Portland, ME
Posted on October 24, 2025
American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise company specializing in unique experiences exploring America’s rivers and coasts. The company is renowned for offering travelers an unparalleled opportunity to see the country’s most beautiful and historic sites aboard elegant small ships that combine intimate, personalized service with the finest American hospitality. With over 50 itineraries that span more than 35 states, American Cruise Lines allows passengers to share America’s story while enjoying luxury accommodations and immersive shore excursions.
American Cruise Lines embodies core values of optimism, commitment, patriotism, and merit, which guide their operational and service standards. These values foster a positive work environment and encourage employees to take pride in their role as ambassadors representing the company’s distinguished brand.
The Server role for the 2026 cruising season is an exciting opportunity to join the shipboard hotel and restaurant team, where you will be responsible for delivering outstanding hospitality to guests. This temporary position spans 28 weeks, during which you will engage in providing an elegant and memorable dining experience on board one of the finest American ships. As a Server, you will play a crucial role in ensuring that passengers receive attentive and courteous service that enhances their overall cruise experience.
Your responsibilities will include efficiently setting up and breaking down meal periods including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktail hour. This involves arranging tables with linens, silverware, china, and glassware to present a polished and inviting dining atmosphere. You will cater to the culinary requests of guests, presenting food and beverage menus, suggesting courses and wines, and answering any inquiries in a professional and friendly manner.
Additionally, you will be responsible for accurately relaying orders to the galley, serving courses and drinks with care, ensuring that all items are attractively presented and properly garnished. Beyond regular dining service, you may also be involved in other duties such as greeting guests upon embarkation, serving afternoon teas and snacks, and supporting evening entertainment events. These varied tasks require adaptability, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction.
The Server position is ideal for individuals seeking an entry point into the cruise hospitality industry and offers a solid foundation for building a career with American Cruise Lines or other hospitality organizations. The company provides comprehensive support including travel to and from your assigned vessel, room and board aboard the ship, uniforms, and paid training, making it easier for new employees to focus on developing their skills and delivering exceptional service.
The pay ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per week with the opportunity to earn additional bonuses, and since major living expenses are covered while onboard, there is an extraordinary chance for employees to save their earnings. Furthermore, working with American Cruise Lines provides the unique advantage of traveling extensively across the U.S., creating lifelong memories and connections with fellow crew members and guests. This seasonal employment also serves as a stepping stone toward potential advancement within the company, although such promotions are not guaranteed.
American Cruise Lines has strict policies to maintain operational safety and professionalism, including pre-employment drug testing, prohibitions on alcohol consumption during shifts, and grooming standards concerning visible tattoos and piercings. Candidates must be able to meet moderate physical demands such as lifting, bending, climbing, and standing or walking for extended periods. The company is committed to equal employment opportunities, considering all applicants without discrimination.
Overall, this Server position offers a rewarding chance to work in a dynamic, customer-focused environment aboard some of America’s finest vessels, contributing to an unforgettable guest experience while growing your hospitality career with a respected industry leader.
- Be at least eighteen years of age
- Be an American citizen or Green Card holder
- Willing and able to work a minimum of 12 hours per day, 7 days a week, for up to 28 weeks
- Able to meet moderate physical demands including lifting, bending, climbing, and extended periods of standing or walking
- Successfully pass a pre-employment drug test including testing for marijuana and other controlled substances
- Abstain from alcohol consumption while on duty
- Adhere to grooming standards including limitations on visible tattoos and piercings
- This is a temporary employment position not to extend beyond 28 weeks
- Able to perform emergency and safety functions essential to ship operation
- Demonstrate ability to work well under pressure and maintain composure