Behind every crew member and officer, there is a remarkable story shaped by dreams, sacrifices and years of hard work. Before Captain Ivan Mladina took command of Carnival cruise ships, he represented Croatia at two Olympic Games and won two medals at the Mediterranean Games.

Born in Split, Croatia, Mladina made his Olympic debut at Sydney 2000, competing in the 100-meter butterfly and the 4x100-meter freestyle relay. Four years later, he returned to the Olympics in Athens as a member of Croatia’s 4x100-meter freestyle relay team. 

At the 2001 Mediterranean Games in Tunis, Mladina helped Croatia win silver in the 4x100-meter medley relay and bronze in the 4x100-meter freestyle relay. He also reached the individual 100-meter freestyle final, finishing sixth. 

After his swimming career, Mladina began a new journey at sea. He joined Carnival Cruise Line and worked his way through the deck department, later serving as staff captain aboard Carnival Splendor before becoming a ship’s master.

In September 2024, he celebrated 15 years with Carnival. He has now been with the cruise line for approximately 17 years and currently serves as one of the captains of Carnival Encounter.

He once stood on an Olympic starting block representing Croatia. Today, he stands on the bridge of Carnival Encounter, leading an international crew and safely guiding thousands of people across the sea.