By
Rebecca Gibson |
Serena Melani has become Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ (RSSC) first-ever female captain and taken on full responsibility for operating Seven Seas Mariner.
A native of Tuscany, Italy, 42-year-old Melani attended nautical school and gained her first shipboard position on oil tankers and gas carriers in 1998. Four years later, Melani switched to the cruise industry and then joined RSSC in 2010. During her time at RSSC, she has served in several officer-level roles, including second officer, safety officer. For the past two years she has served as staff captain on Seven Seas Mariner.
“Our guests expect the highest standard of cruising excellence, both in our ships and those who serve aboard it,” said Jason Montague, president and COO at RSSC. “Captain Melani exemplifies those qualities through her vast experience and leadership abilities. Her promotion to captain is well-earned, and I know she will perform admirably in guiding Seven Seas Mariner as she sails from the Caribbean to Alaska.”
Melani embarked on her maiden voyage as captain of the all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Mariner on 21 February, safely taking more than 700 passengers and 450 crew on a 12-night South American voyage from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
“On cruise ships, you travel to more exotic places and get to meet so many interesting people,” said Melani. “The ship is like a small village, and I take pride in ensuring that all of our guests experience a unique and enjoyable journey. I am a female in a traditional male environment, but when you are onboard, you are part of a team. Regardless of your gender, you have a job to do and you must do it well.”