For the very first time in all of the cruising industry, an American female will take the helm of a cruise ship. The 37 year old Captain, Kate McCue, will command the Celebrity Summit starting in August 2015. The San Francisco native has over 15 years of experience behind her including sailing Europe, Asia, Australia, the Caribbean, the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, and along the Panama Canal. Captain McCue has also served as a maritime leader while sailing several transatlantic and repositioning cruises, and played a role in the revitalization of ships in Singapore. Captain McCue has held numerous roles obtaining more responsibility from a cadet position to her most recent role as Master Mariner for Royal Caribbean.
“From the first time I met Kate, I looked forward to this moment, when I could extend my congratulations to her for being such a dynamic and highly respected leader who will continue to pave the way for women in the maritime industry,” said Lutoff-Perlo, CEO Celebrity Cruises. “Of all the great moments throughout my career, this is at the top of my list. I am both honored that Kate accepted this position, and proud of the way our team continues to transform the way people think about Celebrity, and about cruising in general.”
“Becoming the first female American captain of a cruise ship has been a goal of mine for as long as I can remember,” added McCue. “The honor is amplified by being the first at a company like Celebrity Cruises. The cruise industry is ever-evolving, from the ships and the itineraries, to our guests’ expectations for vacation experiences. Celebrity has a history of delivering on each of these, and I am thrilled to be a part of it. I look forward to working with an amazing team and the exceptional leadership who bring the Celebrity Cruises vision to life every day.”
The Cruise Web, Inc.
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