With 18 years of maritime industry experience under her belt, Serena Melani is the first woman to captain a ship on behalf of the iconic luxury line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Sailing with Serena
Overseeing Seven Seas Mariner, Melani will be responsible for 700 passengers and 450 crew. Hailing from Tuscany, she kicked off her career in 1998 working on a car and cargo vessel. After years steering oil and gas tankers she switched to the luxury cruise industry, and is now making history with the Miami based line.
With perks such as travelling to far flung destinations and liaising with a kaleidoscope of passengers, it’s no surprise that Melani is thrilled to be sailing with Regent Seven Seas.
“On cruise ships, you travel to more exotic places and get to meet so many interesting people,” explained 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.”
Women take to the wheel
Despite being an ‘equal opportunity’ industry led by a host of female CEOs, presidents and executives, female captains are a rarity. Over the past decade only a handful of leading lines have appointed a woman for the chief role, with Royal Caribbean, Silversea Cruises, Cunard, Celebrity and P&O Cruises leading the way. For Melani, her new role is an opportunity to prove herself in a male dominated industry, and stress that gender has nothing to do with the ability to steer a ship.
“Yes, I am a female in a traditional male environment. But when you are on board, you are part of a team. Regardless of your gender, you have a job to do. And you must do it well.”
A warm welcome for the leading lady
Jason Montague, the line’s president and chief operating officer congratulated Melani on her new role, and is confident that her experience and leadership skills will ensure her ship a safe and successful passage. “I know she will perform admirably in guiding Seven Seas Mariner as [it]sails from the Caribbean to Alaska,” he released in a statement.
With Melani on-board, Regent Seven Seas is not only one of the world’s most luxurious lines, but also one of the most progressive. For the latest sailings to over 250 destinations across the globe, connect with a Cruise 1st customer service agent and start exploring the incredible Regent Seven Seas network today. Alternatively, give our friendly sales team a call on 0808 2746 777.
