Miami, Fla. (04. März 2016) – Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the world’s most inclusive luxury cruise line, announced the promotion of Serena Melani to Captain of Seven Seas Mariner, the world's first all-suite, all-balcony ship.
The first female Captain in the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet, Captain Melani -- age 42-- is one of just a handful of women to ascend to the rank of captain in the history of the cruise industry. Overseeing 700 passengers and a crew of 450, she embarked 21. Februar on her maiden voyage as captain – a 12-night South American sojourn, from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro.
“Our guests expect the highest standard of cruising excellence, both in our ships and those who serve aboard it. Captain Melani exemplifies those qualities through her vast experience and leadership abilities,” said Jason Montague, president and chief operating officer for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “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.”
A native of the Tuscany region of Italy, Captain Melani became enamored with the sea at a young age and prepared for her career by attending nautical school. She attained her first shipboard position in 1998, serving on a roll-on/roll-off ship carrying cars and general cargo. Later, after four years working on oil tankers and gas carriers, she made a career switch to the cruise ship industry.
“On cruise ships, you travel to more exotic places and get to meet so many interesting people,” said Captain Melani, whose favorite cruise destination is West Africa. “The ship is like a small village, and I take pride in ensuring that all of our guests experience a unique and enjoyable journey.”
While excited to be commanding a ship for the first time, Captain Melani downplayed the significance of her gender. “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.”
After seven years with another cruise line, Captain Melani joined Regent Seven Seas in 2010. She has served in several increasingly-responsible officer-level roles, including 2nd officer and safety officer. She most recently served a two-year stint as Staff Captain aboard Seven Seas Mariner, which she now captains.
When not at sea, Captain Melani lives with her husband in Croatia and her native Italy.
About Seven Seas Mariner
The world's first all-suite, all-balcony ship, Seven Seas Mariner caters to only 700 guests, offering its guests absolutely the highest level of personal service. A multi-million dollar refurbishment in 2014 added breathtaking new décor to the lounges and suites, and refreshed the palatial pool decks. In spring of 2017, Seven Seas Mariner will undergo additional renovations as part of Regent Seven Seas Cruises $125 million fleet-wide refurbishment effort. This refurbishment will touch the gourmet restaurants, lounges, library and remaining suites.
For more specific itinerary details or for general information about Regent Seven Seas Cruises, guests can visit http://www.RSSC.com, call 1.844.4REGENT (1.844.473.4368) or contact a professional travel agent.
Über Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises ist die Luxus-Kreuzfahrtgesellschaft, bei der es weltweit die meisten Inklusivangebote gibt. The line's fares include all-suite accommodations, round-trip air, highly personalized service, acclaimed cuisine, fine wines and spirits, Wi-Fi, sightseeing excursions in every port, all gratuities, and a pre-cruise luxury hotel package for those guests staying in concierge and higher suites. Three award-winning, all-suite vessels, Seven Seas Navigator, Seven Seas Mariner, and Seven Seas Voyager, are among the most spacious at sea and visit nearly 350 destinations around the globe. The line is currently building the 750-guest Seven Seas Explorer, which will be delivered in summer of 2016.
KONTAKT:
Jason Lasecki
Prestige Cruise Holdings
+1 305 514 3912
jlasecki@prestigecruiseholdings.com
Kelsey Walker
Ketchum Public Relations
+1 404 879 9294
kelsey.walker@ketchum.com
