On March 8, 2020, Celebrity Cruises set sail with its first all-female crew and bridge, making history. Today, on International Women's Day 2021, one year after this milestone, the women who led this maritime first come together to reflect on the historic voyage, discuss the challenging year that followed, and share their experiences.
The team will convene virtually from their homes around the world and even directly from the Celebrity Edge docked in the Bahamas. Among the powerful voices contributing to this unique and industry-leading conversation are Captain Kate McCue, the first American woman to captain a cruise ship; Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, the first female president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises; and Chief Officer Rachel Arnold, from Bristol, UK.
They will be joined by 2nd Officer Elizabeth Marami (Kenya), Chief of Security Mor “Mia” Segev (Israel), Hotel Director Niina Huataniemi, Deputy Hotel Director Milana Dortangs, Passenger Relations Director Julie Sherrington (UK) and Cruise Director Sue Denning (UK).
“Making history with these women was extraordinary for our industry and an honor for me. It was a dream come true for all of us,” said Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. “Our mantra has been to use this time of pause to come back stronger than ever, and bringing these incredible pioneers together is a testament to that. Together, we will continue to sail beyond conventional thinking and wisdom into a new world of opportunity.”
Worldwide, only 2% of seafarers are women. Celebrity Cruises catalyzed the maritime industry, guiding it toward a more diverse future and growing the number of women on its bridge teams from 3% to 28%, ultimately making possible the historic WOMANned sailing of 2020 aboard the award-winning Celebrity Edge. Now, as the company prepares to return to service this year, it is once again looking to set new standards on the seven seas.
Join the conversation with these incredible leaders on International Women's Day at the Celebrity Cruises Watch Party on Facebook at 6:00 p.m. (CET) on Monday, March 8, 2021. During the broadcast, Captain Kate will answer questions from the audience.
