I've never worked for a big cruise line...but have taken many cruises over the last 40 years and ALWAYS get to know the English speaking musicians and entertainers. For the most part they seem to like the work and the pay. But there are a lot of different types of musicians on the ships. There are the OMBs, mostly guitar and piano guys doing anything from R&R to Sing-Along lounges. Then comes the lounge acts, usually 4-6 pieces that play in dance lounges doing standards or R&R or Country. The "house" musicians usually work the main theater for the production shows and individually move around the ship for cocktail and happy hour gatherings.

One couple I met worked for two of the big lines for 13 years straight and did not set foot on US soil which meant their salaries were free and clear on any US taxes. For 13 years their job provided salaries, room, board and, on some ships, they got additional duties supplementing their income.

When they finally retired from cruising, they had a nice nest egg and bought a house near me and have built a very nice music business that includes a recording studio, repping other players and still performing in a variety of different bands and as a duo. I really admire this couple. They also started a non-profit music camp for teens interested in Jazz and Standards and provide a venue for these youngsters to play with pros at public venues.

There was one band I sat in with on the NCL line over several cruises in the 70's & early 80's. The leader and I become good friends. He called me once and asked if I would like to join the band but there was no way I could drop my commitments to do it. Come December, we'll be going out on the Princess Line ...and I hope to make some more musician friends on that cruise.

Eddie