Regent Seven Seas Cruises has announced the promotion of Serena Melani to Captain 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 — will oversee 700 passengers and a crew of 450.

She embarked February 21 on her maiden voyage as captain – a 12-night South American cruise, 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 enamoured 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 favourite 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.”

After seven years with another cruise line, Captain Melani joined Regent Seven Seas in 2010. She has served in several 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.