TUI Cruises has named Kira Schikorr as the first female captain in the Mein Schiff fleet, placing her in command of the cruise ship Mein Schiff 6, a first for German cruise line. Schikorr’s promotion stands out in an industry where senior bridge roles have long been dominated by men. For TUI Cruises, the appointment signals both a major personal step for Schikorr and a visible shift in leadership across a large, established European cruise brand.

According to the cruise line, Schikorr joined the Mein Schiff fleet in 2018 as Second Officer and steadily moved up through the ranks.

In 2022, she advanced to Staff Captain, serving in the position on ships including Mein Schiff 7. Now, in her debut as captain, Schikorr is leading Mein Schiff 6 while the ship operates in Asia.

Onboard reputation

While official statements focus on her professional progression, guest and crew commentary has also pointed to her on-the-ship presence. She has been described by passengers as approachable and easy to speak with during onboard interactions, an impression that often matters as much as technical leadership when commanding a modern cruise ship community.

For TUI Cruises and the Mein Schiff fleet, the announcement is already drawing attention across German cruise media as a “first,” and a sign of a new generation stepping into top roles at sea.

Congratulations and best wishes to Captain Kira Schikorr on her first command.