Carnival appoints Daniela Gargiulo as first female Staff Captain

A proud new chapter in Carnival Cruise Line's history was celebrated in Sydney on Aug. 5, as Daniela Gargiulo was appointed the global fleet's first female Staff Captain.

A special ceremony was held onboard Carnival Adventure as Captain Francesco Bencivenga officially welcomed Gargiulo to be his second-in-command, while the ship was returning to Sydney from the beautiful South Pacific.

Gargiulo joined Carnival Adventure last year and started at Carnival Cruise Line as a Deck Cadet in 2013, steadily progressing through the ranks by showcasing 13 years of dedicated service, professionalism and leadership. Her passion for the sea began early in life – at 14 years old she enrolled in a nautical school in Italy, and a lifelong love of the ocean was born.

"This promotion is an incredible honor and I'm extremely proud to be the first woman in Carnival Cruise Line history to be a Staff Captain. Carnival's career pathways allow men and women wonderful opportunities for a life at sea," said Gargiulo. "I love working with people from all over the world, from different cultures, and I'm especially excited to be starting this new chapter in my career onboard Carnival Adventure in Australia."

Captain Francesco Bencivenga said he was delighted to work alongside Gargiulo. "As Staff Captain, Daniela is my second in charge, overseeing marine operations, safety and crew leadership among many other roles. I am incredibly proud to witness this vital step forward for gender diversification in the maritime industry, opening doors for future generations of female leaders."

Carnival Adventure sails year-round from Sydney carrying more than 2,600 guests and 1,100 crew.