Captain Kate McCue, widely regarded as the most recognized cruise ship captain globally, has revealed she is leaving Celebrity Cruises. Known for breaking barriers as the first American woman to command a major cruise ship, McCue shared the news with her nearly one million Instagram followers, leaving fans stunned yet intrigued about her next chapter.
Captain Kate McCue
In an emotional social media post, McCue reflected on her remarkable journey: “Today, I bid goodbye to Celebrity. Over the past 22 years, I’ve served on 11 ships within the Royal Caribbean Group, rising from 2nd Officer to Captain. I’ve explored breathtaking destinations, connected with incredible people, and lived out the dream I had since I was 12.” While stepping away from Celebrity, she hinted that her seafaring days might not be over just yet.
Celebrity Cruises Response
Celebrity Cruises responded warmly, acknowledging her impact: “Our journey together has been extraordinary. Your passion and spirit inspired countless individuals and left an indelible mark on our industry. We wish you smooth sailing ahead.” Fans and passengers echoed this gratitude, praising her as a trailblazer and thanking her for sharing her adventures so openly.
Though McCue didn’t disclose specific plans, she offered a heartfelt reason for her departure: “Life has a way of reshuffling what matters most, prompting us to realign our priorities.” Her most recent command was aboard Celebrity Beyond, an Edge-class ship she christened in 2022. From there, she gained fame for moments like aiding refugees, hosting lively onboard events, and even baking a quirky fish-flavored cake for her cat—a clip that went viral.
With a massive online following, McCue plans to keep her audience updated on what’s next. Her tenure with Celebrity, part of the Royal Caribbean Group, began over two decades ago, and her departure marks the end of an era for the cruise line. Fans are eager to see where this iconic captain steers her career next.
