Kate McCue, the primary American girl to captain a mega cruise vessel, introduced on Monday that she’s leaving Movie star Cruises after greater than twenty years of service.
The web-famous captain revealed on Instagram, “As we speak, I say farewell to Movie star. I’ve spent the final 22 years on 11 ships within the Royal Caribbean Group, from 2nd Officer to Captain. I’ve seen a few of the most lovely locations, met inspiring and great folks, and had alternatives to stay my 12-year-old dream out loud!”
A Trailblazing Profession at Sea
Captain Kate started working within the cruise business in 2002 as a Third Mate for Disney Cruise Line earlier than becoming a member of Royal Caribbean and ultimately Movie star Cruises.
Her groundbreaking achievement got here in 2015 when, at age 37, she turned the primary American feminine captain of Movie star Summit. She later commanded Movie star Edge and Equinox and was a spokesperson for Movie star’s Edge-class vessels.
Followers and Colleagues Specific Help
With a million Instagram followers and over 84,000 YouTube subscribers, Captain Kate has constructed a faithful on-line group. Information of her departure prompted an outpouring of appreciation from colleagues, followers, and former passengers.
“A pacesetter who will endlessly be an instance all through my profession at sea! Within the eight years we labored collectively, I can’t recall a single second when she wasn’t totally current, demonstrating unwavering love, care, and keenness for her occupation,” wrote one co-worker.
One other mentioned, “You’re an inspiration for women all around the world to have the ability to turn into a captain of a serious cruise ship at some point.”
A New Chapter Awaits
Whereas Captain Kate didn’t elaborate on her causes for leaving, she talked about experiencing “large life modifications” not too long ago. “Merely put, life has an unbelievable manner of reminding us what’s essential and altering up priorities,” she defined.
Nonetheless, she reassured followers that her maritime journey is way from over. “Are my crusing days over? Completely not! I’ve acquired an excessive amount of salt in my veins to go away the ocean behind,” she added.
All through her distinguished profession, Captain Kate has been a fearless and galvanizing presence. She has led rescue missions at sea and stood as much as on-line critics—all whereas crusing together with her beloved Sphynx cat, Bug, who sadly handed away in December 2024.
For the numerous younger girls impressed by her groundbreaking profession, Captain Kate’s story reminds them that even probably the most difficult seas might be navigated with willpower, ability, and maybe a shipboard cat named Bug.