It has just been revealed that Serena Melani will serve as the master of Seven Seas Splendor, making her cruising’s first woman to helm a new ocean cruise ship at its launch.
Melani, aged 45, became Regent Seven Seas first female captain in 2016 and has commanded Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Navigator since.
“Captain Melani has distinguished herself as a trailblazer in the maritime and cruise industries,” Regent president and CEO Jason Montague said.
“She is an international role model and admired by our guests and crew.”
She joined the line in 2010 as a bridge officer and worked as navigation officer, safety officer and staff captain on Seven Seas Voyager.
Melani began her nautical career at age 16 as a cadet while attending school and working on cargo ships in her hometown of Livorno, Italy.
After graduating from nautical college in 1993, she became one of only a few women to hold roles of increasing responsibilities on oil tankers, cargo and container vessels.
“There is a growing number of very talented female captains emerging in our industry, and we’re proud to be pioneers for those women who aspire to lead the bridge,” Melani said.
“Exploring the world and leading ship teams has been a love of mine and I enjoy sharing this passion with everyone who sails with us.
I’ve always believed in the motto that the cure for everything resides in salt water—sweat, tears and the sea.”
Seven Seas Splendor was named by the public after 2,600 unique passenger suggestions and the 750-guest ship will be all-suite, all-balcony.
Regent fans can expect the vessel to launch in 2020 which will also mark four years after Seven Seas Explorer.
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