Both vocalists
Both performers must sing — not one lead and one backing, but two credible vocalists sharing the front of stage.
The Duo.
Two musicians, both vocalists, at least one instrumentalist. An intimate, versatile format on a number of ships — from quiet evening sets to singalongs that fill the bar.
2 MusiciansNon-ReadingBoth Must Sing
[ 01 ] — What the Duo Involves
The Duo is a two-person act, non-reading format built around strong vocals and an instrumentalist — a product that sits between the Guitar Vocalist's solo intimacy and a full band's scale, occupying that space with its own distinct energy.
Both performers must sing. At least one must play an instrument. Beyond those requirements, the format rewards creativity: the best Duos bring their own musical personality to the gig, blending acoustic performance with backing tracks to give sets more dynamic range when the room calls for it.
If you're a strong performer who thrives in a flexible, creative context and wants to be part of a wider team delivering exceptional entertainment, this job could be for you.
[ 03 ] — The Format
Two performers, performing together as a unit. There are no fixed gender requirements — Male/Female, Female/Female, and Male/Male configurations are all placed depending on available talent and ship requirements.
At least one instrumentalist
The acoustic guitar or keyboards are the primary instrument. If both performers play, that's an asset; one strong player is the minimum.
Backing tracks
The ability to perform to backing tracks for more uptempo and danceable material gives the act wider dynamic range and makes it more versatile across different room types and times of day.
Additional instruments
Second guitar, cajon, keys — additional instrumental ability gives the act more texture and flexibility. Not a requirement, but a genuine advantage.
[ 04 ] — What We're Looking For
Both Performers
- Strong, confident vocalists. This is a vocals-forward format. Both performers need genuine vocal quality and the ability to blend.
- Versatile repertoire across pop, folk, acoustic covers, and singalong material.
- The ability to perform to backing tracks for uptempo sets — experience with click tracks or live track playback is valuable here.
- Strong two-part harmony. A Duo that harmonises well is significantly more compelling than one where both performers sing in unison.
- Natural stage chemistry between the two performers. Genuine rapport translates directly to the audience.
- Self-sufficient, self-motivated performers. As a Duo you manage your own set, schedule, and standard.
- Professionalism and conduct appropriate for a the client at all times.
- Confident instrumental ability from at least one performer — and ideally both.
Due to the nature of these contract assignments, we are only looking for established Duo acts. Duos need a strong repertoire list of songs that cross styles and genres. The ability to have you own "take" on songs and the ability to perform mash-ups is also desirable.
[ 05 ] — The Deal
Duo performers are employed directly by the client under a Seafarers' Employment Agreement — the same employed structure as all other Sonic Artistes placements.
Assignment Length
Typically 4 or 6 months onboard, followed by a rest period. Length depends on ship scheduling and availability.
Pay
Monthly consolidated salary, per performer, via PAYE. Tax handled automatically by the client.
Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation, all meals, and laundry included throughout the assignment — for each performer independently.
Travel
International flights and port hotels arranged and covered. Travel allowance provided to and from the gateway airport.
The Ships
Arcadia, Azura, and Ventura — three established P&O ships with a mix of itineraries including the Mediterranean, Atlantic Islands, and British Isles. Expansion to additional ships is planned.
Medical
ENG1 seafarer's medical certificate required before joining for each performer. Company covers the cost of pre-employment medicals.
[ 06 ] — Detail
Honest About the Format
As with the Guitar Vocalist role, you're largely managing your own schedule and standard. That creative freedom is one of the most attractive things about this format. The expectation is that you're professional, self-directed, and capable of delivering a consistently high-quality performance without close supervision.
Chemistry between the two performers matters enormously. We take that seriously at the assessment stage, and we're honest with applicants when we don't think a pairing will work.
[ 07 ] — How the Process Works
- 01
Apply — together or individually
Established Duos apply together with a joint showreel. Individual performers apply separately and note their interest in the Duo format.
- 02
Discovery call (optional)
A conversation with our team about your background, your repertoire, and how you currently perform together if you're an existing Duo.
- 03
Audition
We need to see and hear you performing together. A live or live-feel video is the most valuable submission. Presence, chemistry, and vocal harmony are all assessed.
- 04
Roster approval and compliance
Once approved, we'll guide both performers through the seafarer documentation process independently — ENG1, Bermuda ID, Seaman's Discharge Book, vaccinations, and more.
- 05
Assignment
When a position opens on one of the three ships, we'll be in touch. Roster approval is the prerequisite; assignment timing depends on ship scheduling.
[ APPLY ] — Next stage
Ready to Apply?
Show us what you sound like together — or tell us about yourself as an individual performer. Either way, we'd like to hear from you.