Captain Serena Melani was honored with the Capperuccio 2023 Award by Lions Club Livorno Porto Mediceo for her unwavering determination and dedication in pursuing her maritime dream and achieving remarkable milestones in her career.
As the first female Italian cruise ship Captain, Serena Melani has shattered gender barriers and overcome prejudices, accomplishing what was once considered impossible. Serena Melani, humbled and honored to receive the award from her beloved city Livorno,, emphasized the significance of embracing the feminine aspect of her role.
The esteemed recognition, presented by Marina Marenna, President of Lions Club Livorno Porto Mediceo, and Mayor Luca Salvetti, celebrates individuals or organizations that have brought immense honor to Livorno and made significant contributions to its development.
Mayor Luca Salvetti remarked, "This award perfectly aligns with Livorno's ongoing efforts to promote female empowerment, particularly in the maritime industry. Our collaborative project, 'Il Porto delle donne' (The Port of Women), with Port Councilor Barbara Bonciani, has garnered national attention. It is the first time a port city has critically examined and acknowledged the indispensable role of women in the maritime sector. Serena Melani's work takes her worldwide, commanding a delicate yet highly visible position, and we are delighted to recognize her achievements. On behalf of the city, I wholeheartedly support the Lions Club Porto Mediceo's initiative and view it as a collective effort to honor Captain Melani."
After graduating from the nautical institute in 1993, Serena Melani embarked on a remarkable career, starting on merchant ships and later transitioning to cruise ships.
In 2010, she joined Regent Seven Seas Cruises and held various roles, eventually becoming the company's first female captain. Since 2016, she has commanded prestigious ships such as the Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Mariner, and Seven Seas Splendor.
In April 2022, Serena Melani's exceptional expertise led her to be chosen as the Captain of the inaugural vessel, 'Explora I,' for Explora Journeys, a new luxury cruise brand under MSC Cruises.
Photo credit: Marina Marenna
