Giovanni Attanasio dreamt of becoming a ship’s captain, growing up in a community of seafarers in Sorrento, Italy, where the sea is an intrinsic part of daily life.

At 16 years old he went to sea as a cadet, falling further in love with the idea of life on the ocean and eventually became a 3rd officer on a container ship, before moving to MSC Cruises in 2008.

He was promoted to Captain in 2024.

Living in Germany with his wife and young daughter, Captain Attanasio says becoming a Master makes him feel as though he has arrived home – his dream has become a reality.

Describing himself as a simple person who is approachable and available, Captain Attanasio believes the secret to success is teamwork and respect for everyone. 

In his spare time, he de-stresses at the gym or by spending time with his family, in his garden or cooking – and is a huge Harry Potter fan!

Captain Battinelli graduated from the Nautical institute, Francesco Caracciolo, in 1983 and begin working on cargo ships as rank of Deckhand. He continued to move up in different ranks and in 1996, he was promoted to First Officer.

He joined MSC Cruises after twenty years of experience with the cruise industry. Despite his prestigious career, Stefano underwent a month of training before becoming the Master of MSC Orchestra in December 2017. He has a wide experience in new builds and has been in charge of various classes of ships recently.

After obtaining his Nautical diploma in 1988, Captain Benini commenced his maritime career by serving in the Italian Navy. In 1990, he transitioned to the cruise sector, joining his first cruise ship as a Deck Officer.

He rose through the ranks and assumed his first command in 2006. From 2015 to 2017 he held the role of Fleet Captain of a major cruise company. In February 2024, he brought his wealth of experience to MSC Cruises, assuming the position of Master.

Captain Domenico Calise was born on the beautiful island of Ischia, Italy and was inspired by the ocean that surrounded him to embark on a career at sea. In fact, he learnt to swim before he could walk!

Graduating from Nautical school ITN F.Caracciolo of Forio D'Ischia in 1996, Captain Calise left the island, like so many generations before him, to start a life at sea in 1997.

He joined the cruise industry five years later and joined the MSC Cruises family as a Staff Captain in 2023.

He loves to sail into any Mediterranean port, as they are steeped in centuries of history.

His favourite thing about being a Master with MSC Cruises is the precious times when colleagues are reunited after past years of working together.

Married since 2006 to Silviya, the couple shares two sons and their dog ‘daughter’, Cuba!

When not at sea, Captain Calise loves to travel with his family, take care of his garden and enjoy barbeques at home with friends.

 

Captain Cha graduated at the Nautical Technical Academy Andrea Doria in Imperia, Italy. He began his career in 1997 serving as Deck Cadet on container ships. Following this, he joined the cruise industry as Deck Officer in 2003, building and developing consistent experience at sea. He joined MSC Cruises in 2022 and he was promoted Captain two years later. He is particularly good at leading and ensuring his entire crew provides exceptional guest experiences. He feels lucky to be able to indulge his passion for the Maritime industry, while being able to explore some of the world’s greatest destinations while onboard.

 

Captain Marco Valerio Colonna began his career as a Junior Deck Cadet with MSC Cruises in 2005. Throughout the years, he has sailed the globe and, while doing so, ascended the ranks, reaching the position of Staff Captain in 2016. Captain Colonna was instrumental in launching two vessels and coordinating two world cruises. He was promoted to Master of MSC Musica in June 2024, realising his childhood dream.

Captain Cilento was born and raised in Montechiaro, a small village of the Sorrento Peninsula. His dream as a child was to work at sea and in 2005, after graduating from the Nautical Academy Nino Bixio, in Piano di Sorrento, Italy, he started working on board the container vessel MSC Melissa. In 2010, after gaining the Officer of the Watch License he moved to the cruise ship division and boarded MSC Melody. In 2015 he was promoted to Safety Officer and he was assigned to the role of Fleet Safety Trainer, assisting Captains and Crew during safety inspectios preparations. In 2017 he was promoted to Staff Captain and worked on several ships until 2022 when he was promoted to Captain of MSC Opera.

His professional journey started in 2002 on the MSC Melody, as Junior Deck Cadet. After some time with MSC Medlog in Antwerp, he continued his development on MSC Cruises ships undertaking various responsibilities, until the role of Safety Officer in the 2012. In 2016 he was promoted to the position of Staff Captain, and in 2022 he was in Doha to support the World cup project. In July 2023 he has been promoted Master of MSC Musica.

Captain Michele Di Mauro’s passion for the sea came from his father and grandfather, both of whom were fisherman in Lesina, Italy. Having whiled away many school holidays on the boat whilst his father fished, a young Michele was inspired to become a ship’s captain and explore the beauty of the world.

He started his ocean career in 1997 in the cargo division of MSC Group, transferring to MSC Cruises in 2004. He became First Officer for onboard safety in 2007 and transferred to land to train crew members in safety procedures on board.

But the call of the sea was strong, and he returned to as Staff Captain in 2013, becoming a Master in 2018.

Captain Di Mauro leads his crew, always with his favourite quote in mind: “A happy family is but an earlier heaven", by George Bernard Shaw – the goal therefore to make guests feel like part of the MSC family, creating lifelong memories and wonderful vacation experiences.

When not onboard ship, Captain Di Mauro likes to spend time having fun with his family, relaxing or playing soccer.

Raised in the Italian Sorrento peninsula, where seafaring traditions are strong, he attended the Nautical Institute Nino Bixio. During his career, he acquired considerable experience as first Officer, Staff Captain and Master for several shipping lines. For ten years he has been Master on MSC cargo vessels, before moving to the MSC cruise division.

Originally having dreamt of a career in an airplane cockpit, Marco Franza ended up in a career wearing a different Captain’s uniform, as an MSC Cruises Captain!

Born in the beautiful Piano di Sorrento, Captain Franza is a graduate of the Technical Nautical school of Piano di Sorrento, "Nino Bixio". Unsurprisingly, given the beauty of his childhood surroundings, he fell in love with the sea at an early age and vowed to sail the seven seas.

Having swapped his ambition in the skies for the seas, Captain Franza first joined the MSC family in 2000, at MSC Cargo, transfering to MSC Cruises three years later, as third officer on board MSC Lirica.

Captain’s Franza’s constant motivation is to ensure guests can appreciate the beauty of the ocean as he does, fulfilling their spirit of adventure. 

As well as seeing the pleasure amongst guests, his favourite moments on board ship are watching the sun set, listening to the waves crash against the bow and observing dolphins as they play in the ship’s wake. Describing himself as loyal and with a sense of duty to the MSC family and guests alike, his favourite port call is Malaga, Spain, ideally on board his favourite ship, MSC Lirica.

When he is not at sea Captain Franza enjoys healthy living and travelling to places where the seas cannot reach, enjoying nature at its very finest.

Captain Giuseppe Galano has been a proud member of the MSC family since 1981, when he began his career as a young deck boy aboard the MV Juba in the MSC Cargo division. 

His love for the sea developed while working on ferries in his Italian hometown, and he chose a life at sea over his first childhood dream of becoming a doctor!

With over 40 years of experience, Captain Galano is known for his dedication to safety, hospitality, and strong leadership at sea. He considers MSC not just a company, but a family, and takes pride in mentoring his crew and delivering exceptional experiences to guests.

When off ship, he enjoys traveling with his family, including four children and three dogs, embracing the unique lifestyle that comes with being both a ship’s Captain and a family man.

Captain Alex Galotto graduated from the Nautical Academy in 1977. After graduating he undertook his first role on board a cruise ship by serving as a Deck Cadet.

From here he climbed the ranks earning a wealth of experience in many roles. He achieved his first command in 1996. He joined MSC Cruises in January 2024.

Captain Gazzano started his career at sea in 1981. He joined the cruise industry in 1996, where he worked his way to obtain the role of Staff Captain and eventually Captain. All along he kept on training refining his maneuvering/ships handling and management skills alike. He finally joined MSC Cruises in 2021.

After attending the Nautical Academy in Piano di Sorrento, Italy, Captain Guarracino began his career in 2004 with the MSC Container division, before joining the cruise industry four years later. Having spent his entire seafaring career with MSC Cruises, he has visited some of the greatest destinations on earth while onboard our ships. During his career, he enjoyed many responsibilities, including being part of the construction and delivery of two ships in the St Nazaire shipyard. Since he was promoted Staff Captain, he has always enjoyed creating the right atmosphere among his crew and delivering the very best guest experience on board. In 2024 he achieved a lifelong dream with his promotion to Captain.

 

He began his MSC career as a Deck Officer in our Cargo Division in 1996, transferring to the Group’s Cruise Division as Third Officer in 1998. His dedication and professionalism were rewarded with steadily increasing promotions and experience, which took him to the rank of Staff Master in 2006, until 2012 when he became Master.

He embarked upon his MSC Cruises career as a Second Officer in 1992, gaining promotion to the rank of Staff Captain in 2004 and then to Master in 2009, when he gained command of his first ship at MSC’s Cargo Division. With two seasons’ experience under his belt, he transferred back to MSC Cruises to Master MSC Sinfonia in 2011.

Having been born into island life in Italy, the sea has always been a part of Captain Francesco Iacono's life. 

After starting his maritime journey serving locally on ferries to the mainland, he earned his nautical diploma and began his career as a deck officer cadet on board container ships in 2001. 

He joined MSC Cruises in 2004, becoming Master in 2019. 

With experience in regions like South America, the Mediterranean, and the Norwegian fjords, Captain Iacono’s favourite ports of call are Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Naples, New York, and Rio de Janeiro. 

Known for his professionalism, approachable leadership style and dedication to family values on board, Captain Iacono leads always with respect for teamwork in mind. 

When not on board ship, he enjoys being in nature, peaceful living, and valuable time with his wife and three children.

He graduated from the Nautical institute “Luigi Rizzo” of Catania in 1984 and started his career aboard petrochemical ships in Genoa. In 1988 he joined the cruise industry, rising to the role of Master in 2006. From 2015 to 2017 he took on the prestigious role of Fleet Captain overseeing operations for all lines of a major cruise company. After thirty years of experience, in 2018 he joined MSC Cruises becoming the MSC Sinfonia Master.

He graduated at Nautical Institute Venier in Venice, Italy, to start his career on gas tankers in 1991. After seven years he moved to cruise lines and in 2006 he became Staff Captain of azipod propulsion ships. He was promoted to Master in 2013 and finally joined MSC Cruises in 2021.

Master Giuseppe Maresca started his career with MSC Cargo in 1989 as deck cadet on MSC Ilaria. He demonstrated extraordinary skill and was given his first command of a cargo vessel when he was only 34. He held this rank for eight seasons before moving to his first command of a passenger ship in 2007, on MSC Lirica.

He started his career at MSC in 1995 as a Deck Cadet. His first command came in 2006, on cargo ship MSC Veronique at the age of just 33. Between 2006 and 2012 he commanded 12 ships, including MSC Bettina, one of the largest in the MSC cargo fleet at the time. In 2012 he transferred to cruise ships, firstly as First Officer on board MSC Musica. In September 2016 he took command of his first cruise ship, MSC Lirica in China.

Captain Maresca graduated from the Nautical School in Piano di Sorrento in 1998 and started his maritime career in in the cargo division. After obtaining the Master license in 2006, he moved to the cruise division where he was promoted as Safety Officer. In 2012 he was Staff Captain on the MSC Magnifica, and in 2019 he became Master.

Born in Latina, Italy, and educated at the Nautical Academy School in Torre del Greco, Captain Vincenzo Miele has dedicated over four decades to a career at sea, driven by a lifelong passion for exploration and a deep connection to the ocean. 

Inspired by childhood dreams of discovering the world and influenced by strong family maritime traditions, he has have served in various roles at sea aside from cruise operations, including on board cargo ships, RO-RO vessels and even as a ship pilot.

Having joined MSC Cruises 4 years ago as a Master at Sea, Captain Miele takes pride in leading diverse teams, operating some of the most advanced vessels at sea, and fostering a positive onboard culture rooted in collaboration, respect, and mentorship. He values empathy, cultural understanding, and making a positive impact—both professionally and through his volunteer work with charities local to his home, fostering a sense of support within the community.

When not on board ship, he enjoys spending time with his wife Patrizia and their children, Luigi and Elena, relaxing, fishing and reading. 

Originally from Genoa, Italy, Captain Alessandro Paparo was captivated by the vastness of the ocean and the power of ships, from an early age, especially after a memorable visit to a cargo vessel with his father at the age of seven. This experience sparked a deep connection to the sea and inspired him to pursue a career that combined adventure and responsibility.

After attending a maritime high school in Naples, Captain Paparo’s dreams of becoming a sailor became a reality. He has been a Master for MSC Cruises since 2022.

Captain Paparo’s dedication to continuous learning, teamwork, and safety is evident in his approach to leadership, with a personal standout moment being the successful navigation through a challenging storm, ensuring the safety of everyone aboard. He strives to be remembered as a reliable and approachable leader who always prioritizes the welfare of others.

Outside of work, Alessandro values his family life and time spent with his wife and child.

In common with his job on board ship, he enjoys exploring new places, hiking, swimming, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A firm believer in balancing mental and physical health, he makes sure to prioritize rest and self-care.

He graduated from the Maritime University in Gdynia, Poland 1989, when he started his career on cargo vessels. In 1995 he moved to passenger ships and served in few cruising companies up to the position of Staff Captain. In 2019 he joined MSC Cruises and took command of MSC Armonia. Captain Piotr has experience also on azimuthal propulsion.

He joined MSC Cargo as an experienced First Officer in 1993. Immediately recognized for his abilities and character over two sailing periods, he was promoted to the rank of Master and given his first command of a cargo ship in 1994. He then continued to captain MSC Cargo ships for a total of thirteen sailing periods.
In 2007, he was given the command of MSC Melody, his first cruise ship, and is now in his sixth sailing period with MSC Cruises. Master Pinto has commanded various ships in the Lirica Class as well as MSC Melody, including the voyage of her attack by pirates, when his prompt skills secured the safety of all guests and crew.

Master Pontecorvo started his career with MSC Cargo in 1982 when he embarked on board MSC Corinna as deck cadet. In 1990 he embarked for the first time on a passenger ship as 2nd Officer and from 1995 to 2000 he held the rank of Staff Captain.
In 2000 he was promoted to Master of MSC Monterey and after MSC Cargo ships, where he remained until 2004 after a total of 6 embarks. In 2004 he chose to permanently command passenger ships and in 2010 he was given the command of MSC Splendida.
He has commanded all classes of the MSC Cruises' fleet.

He joined MSC Cruises as a Second Officer in 1994, having already acquired substantial experience in the cruise industry. In 2001, he was promoted to Staff Master on MSC Monterey and then to Master in 2005.
Captain Romano has led ships in the Lirica and Musica classes as well as MSC Melody.

Captain Rossi graduated from the Nautical Institute Leon Pancaldo in Savona, Italy. He started his career in 1992 on oil tankers, to move to ferries and subsequently to cruise lines in the year 2000, where he gained the role of Safety Officer first and ultimately of Staff Captain in 2010. He finally joined MSC Cruises where he was promoted Master in 2019.

Graduated from the Nautical Institute Nino Bixio, Piano di Sorrento, Captain Ruggiero started his career in 1995, on MSC cargo ships until 2000. He then joined the cruise industry where he was promoted to the rank of Staff Captain in 2012, and subsequently Master in 2017. Captain Ruggiero joined MSC Cruises in July 2023, after twenty-eight years of experience at sea.

He started his career on 1999 in MSC cargo ships while he was still studying at Nautical Institute in Piano di Sorrento, Italy. Since then, he continued to work for MSC cargo division until reaching the rank of Chief Officer. In 2010, he then moved to the MSC cruise division as Second Officer on the MSC Orchestra. Since then, he continued his career as First Officer, Safety Officer, Staff Captain roles and then promoted to Captain on MSC Divina in 2022.

He started his career as Deck Boy in 1987 on cargo vessel and continued until the position of 2nd Deck Officer. On 1993 he has been transferred from the cargo to the cruise division, on board the SS Monterey as 3rd Officer and continued his career on the same ship up the rank of Safety Officer. He then moved to MSCCTD at the Safety and New Building Division, where he served from 1995 until 1997. He was promoted to the position of Staff Captain on 1998.
From 2003 until 2008 he was involved in the Mega Yacht Industry. In 2012 he came back to the Cruise Industry.

Captain Sagani is a fourth generation ship captain. On completion of his studies at the Nautical Institute in his hometown Trieste, he joined the Italian Navy and served on a Mine-Hunter during the first Gulf War in 1990. After the Navy, he started his career on cargo vessels and in 1995 he joined the cruise industry. He quickly climbed the ranks and was promoted to Captain in 2007, since then he has been in command of many different classes of passengers ships, cruising many different itineraries around the world. Most recently, he was assigned to the newbuilding team and took delivery as Master of some new constructions from the Fincantieri shipyard. He has joined the MSC Cruises family after 27 years of experience in the Cruise industry.

Captain Antonino Sammartano began his maritime journey at the "Marino Torre" maritime school in Trapani. 

His passion for the sea was sparked during summer work aboard a small tanker where he quickly learned that life at sea demands both dedication and passion for the job. 

Since joining MSC Cruises in 2022, Captain Sammartano has become known for his humility, approachability, and strong team spirit.

A defining moment in his career was his first night as Captain, when he led a successful man-overboard rescue within his first twenty minutes!

Happily married with four children, Antonino enjoys sailing his small boat, promoting inclusivity onboard, and dancing to Latin music in his free time.

Captain Lorenzo Sapetti has a passion for the sea that runs deep in his family roots. 

Born on the Italian coast he always felt a natural connection to the ocean, inspired by his father - a Captain himself. 

Following in his father's footsteps, he attended nautical school and pursued his calling from a young age, knowing the sea was his destiny.

Captain Sapetti joined MSC Cruises as a Staff Captain in 2021, promoted to Captain a few contracts later. 

He is proud to be part of the MSC family, drawn to the company's strong sense of teamwork and commitment to continuous improvement. He believes true leadership is about growing together, sharing both success and setbacks as a unified crew.

Known for his human-centered approach and approachable nature, Captain Sapetti emphasizes mental well-being as key to overall health. 

Outside of work, he enjoys returning to his hometown to relax by the sea, visit family and friends, travel, and indulge in his enduring love of video games.

He joined MSC as a Third Officer in our Cargo Division in 1994. Immediately distinguished by his diligence and professionalism, he achieved steady progress with a transfer to the Cruise Fleet in 1999, promotion to the rank of Staff Captain in 2006 and his first command as Master in 2012.

As a child, Captain Federico Scotto Lavina would gaze out over the bay of his home island of Procida, Italy, dreaming of exploring the world and experiencing. different cultures – so what better company to work for than MSC Cruises!

A school trip on board MSC Sinfonia confirmed his ambitions, as he watched the sea, full of challenges and rewards, inspiring him to sail forwards with courage and curiosity.

Captain Scotto began his maritime career on cargo ships in 2005, moving to the cruise industry as a Deck Officer two years later. He became a Deputy Captain in 2018 and was promoted to Captain in 2025, having joined MSC Cruises in 2022.

Captain Scotto’s favourite port is Rotterdam and his favourite ship is MSC Virtuosa.

His favourite thing about being a Captain on board an MSC Cruises ship is having the chance to lead our incredible crew and see guests enjoy their journeys, creating memories to last a lifetime.

He would like to be remembered by crew and guests alike as someone who always has a smile on his face, who is approachable, actively listens and is always willing to go the extra mile to make the journey special for everyone on board.

Captain Scotto lives with his wife Kristina, who he met on board ship and their young daughter Dora, in Trieste.

He began his career as a deck cadet in 1992 on board the M/N Achille LAURO. In the following years he worked on MSC Symphony, MSC Rhapsody, MSC Melody and MSC Monterey.
From 2003 to 2005 he followed the construction projects in the Saint Nazaire shipyard. In 2009 he was promoted to Staff Captain, and finally Master in 2018.

Captain Tuvo hails from the beachside town of Levanto, La Spezia in Italy . He started his career onboard cargo ships just after graduating from The Nautical Institute Nazario Sauro. In 1999, he decided to make the transition to passenger ships and worked his way up the ranks, being promoted to Captain in 2016. While he has many years of sea-time experience under his belt, he always looks forward to the next adventure. His greatest joys are his family, cooking and outdoor sports such as cycling and hiking. Captain Tuvo is honoured to be a part of the MSC family.

A Genuine Welcome

At MSC Cruises it is our aim to provide you with a service full of warmth and friendliness. Our staff training programs ensure we know how to look after our guests with the right amount of respect and discretion. Whether we are bringing you drinks, preparing your food, or answering any questions you may have, we will do our best to be helpful. You will find our staff to be spontaneous and natural so you can relax and enjoy every single moment of your vacation, safe in the knowledge you are in good hands.

Comfort first

• A high staff per guest ratio, ensures an effective high quality service on board
• Our multilingual staff deliver information in languages most widely-recognized by our guests
• Our problem solving attitude, provides attentive and quick solutions to any request


Maintaining the highest standards

• Each of our highly qualified masters draws on the company’s experience to navigate our fleet of ships
• Dedicated staff operating procedures and ongoing staff training
• Thorough onboard familiarization takes place for each new crew member during their first two weeks
• We provide motivating welfare programs for personnel, such as the “Employee of the Month” award
• Healthy, well equipped and well trained crew: our crew undergoes extensive screening and medical checks, is thoroughly trained and strictly follows the measures of our Health & Safety Protocol