Breaking barriers at sea: Female captains leading the way
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Apr 6
- 6 min read
The maritime industry has long been a male-dominated field, but in recent years, more women have risen to command some of the world's most prestigious vessels.
These trailblazing female captains are not only navigating vast oceans but also reshaping the industry and inspiring future generations.
Captain Kate McCue: A trailblazer in maritime leadership
Celebrity Cruises captain and social media sensation Kate McCue, known for breaking barriers as the first American woman to command a major cruise ship, is set to take on a new challenge. She will captain Four Seasons I, the debut vessel in Four Seasons Yachts' highly anticipated fleet.
McCue's maritime journey is both inspiring and groundbreaking. A graduate of the California Maritime Academy, she has amassed nearly three decades of experience, progressing from cadet to deck officer before ascending to the rank of captain. In 2015, she made history by becoming the first American woman to captain a mega-ton cruise ship, a testament to her dedication and expertise.
Beyond her professional achievements, Captain McCue has cultivated a significant presence on social media platforms. She is a social media sensation because she has built a massive online following by sharing her life as a cruise ship captain in an engaging and relatable way. With over 1 million followers on Instagram and a strong presence on TikTok and YouTube, she gives an insider’s look into the maritime world—something that was previously seen as a mystery to most people.
Her content includes:
Behind-the-scenes glimpses of life on the bridge and ship operations.
Inspirational career advice, especially for women in male-dominated industries.
Humorous responses to internet trolls, including her famous clapback to a comment about "letting a woman drive a ship."
Personal moments with her crew and pet Sphynx cat, Bug Naked, adding a human touch to her role.
By demystifying the cruise industry and engaging with audiences in an authentic, entertaining way, McCue has become a trailblazer both at sea and online.
Now, she is set to break new ground again as the captain of the Four Seasons I, the first vessel in Four Seasons' foray into ultra-luxury yachting. Scheduled to launch in early 2026, the yacht is expected to set a new standard in high-end maritime experiences. Captain McCue’s appointment aligns seamlessly with the brand’s commitment to excellence, blending her vast maritime expertise with an innate understanding of luxury hospitality.
The 95-suite Four Seasons I is expected to begin sailing in January 2026. The ship will sail in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.
McCue said it would be an honor to shape the Four Seasons Yachts experience, adding that she is looking forward to connecting with guests, leading the crew, and engaging with local communities.
Four Seasons president of global hotel operations, Rainer Stampfer, called McCue «the ideal leader to helm Four Seasons I as we embark on this exciting new chapter in luxury yachting. Her passion for hospitality, commitment to excellence and trailblazing leadership align perfectly with our vision to reimagine the yachting experience.»
Female captains making history
Captain Inger Klein Thorhauge: A Cunard Pioneer
Captain Inger Klein Thorhauge became Cunard Line’s first female captain in 2010 and now commands the Queen Anne, one of the fleet’s most luxurious ships. Her career is a testament to perseverance and skill, proving that women can rise to the top ranks of one of the world's most prestigious cruise lines.
Being a captain is about leading a team and creating an environment where everyone can succeed. Captain Inger Klein Thorhauge
Captain Belinda Bennett: Breaking barriers in diversity
Captain Belinda Bennett of St. Helena became the first black female cruise ship captain when she took command of Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend. Her rise in the industry serves as a beacon of inspiration for young women and underrepresented groups in maritime careers.
Hard work, dedication, and passion will take you anywhere you want to go. Captain Belinda Bennett
Captain Serena Melani: Leading a new era in luxury Cruising
Captain Serena Melani made history as the first woman to captain a brand-new ocean cruise ship when she took the helm of Regent Seven Seas’ Seven Seas Splendor. Her appointment marked a significant step forward for gender diversity in high-end cruising.
Leadership is not about gender; it’s about capability, responsibility, and passion for the job. Captain Serena Melani
Captain Margrith Ettlin: Commanding scenic eclipse
Captain Margrith Ettlin became the first female captain of a luxury expedition yacht when she took command of the Scenic Eclipse. Her expertise in handling cutting-edge vessels in some of the world’s most challenging waters is proof that women excel in all facets of maritime leadership.
No matter where you come from, if you have the will to succeed, the ocean will always have a place for you. Captain Margrith Ettlin
Deborah Doane Dempsey: Master mariner and hero
Deborah Doane Dempsey holds the distinction of being the first American woman to achieve the rank of Master Mariner, allowing her to command cargo ships on international voyages. Her career is highlighted by a daring rescue in 1993, where she and her crew saved a 634-foot freighter adrift near North Carolina's Frying Pan Shoals, preventing a potential environmental disaster.
Þuríður Einarsdóttir: Iceland's formidable sea captain
In the early 19th century, Þuríður Einarsdóttir defied societal norms to become one of Iceland's most renowned sea captains. Leading male-dominated fishing crews, she was celebrated for her navigation skills and unwavering leadership, embodying resilience and courage in an era when female captains were virtually unheard of.
Mary Read and Anne Bonny: Fearsome Pirates of the Caribbean
Mary Read and Anne Bonny were infamous pirates in the early 18th century. Both disguised themselves as men to join pirate crews and became known for their ruthlessness and bravery.
Their stories highlight the lengths to which women had to go to break into male-dominated spheres during their time.
Captain Lindsay M. Price: From SpaceX to Maritime Advocacy
Captain Lindsay M. Price's career spans over 18 years in the maritime industry, including commanding a SpaceX vessel. As the Director of Advocacy at the Women Offshore Foundation, she champions the advancement of women in maritime professions, reflecting her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry.
Captain Leigh Love: Navigating the Yachting World
Captain Leigh Love has carved out a distinguished career in yachting, serving as an inspiration for women in the industry. Her experiences shed light on the challenges and triumphs of female captains in a traditionally male-dominated field, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and resilience.
These stories underscore the remarkable journeys of female captains who have navigated challenges and paved the way for future generations in the maritime industry.
The future of women in maritime
Although female captains remain a minority, their numbers are steadily increasing as more shipping and cruise companies recognize the importance of diversity in leadership. Programs aimed at encouraging women to pursue maritime careers are gaining traction, and the industry is gradually becoming more inclusive.
With pioneers like Kate McCue, Inger Klein Thorhauge, Belinda Bennett, Serena Melani and Margrith Ettlin leading the way, the future of maritime leadership is on a new course—one where skill, determination, and passion define success, regardless of gender.
