Captain Serena made history in 2020 as the first female Captain to bring a cruise ship out of a shipyard. Starting as a Bridge Officer in 2010, she became Master by 2016, also becoming the first Italian-born female cruise ship Captain. Born in Livorno, Italy, Serena studied at the Nautical Technical School and gained experience on cargo ships. She now divides her time between Italy and Croatia, where she lives with her husband.

Captain Pietro’s maritime career began at Italy's Acciaiuoli Nautical Technical School and the Italian Navy. Joining the cruise industry in 1995, he rose to command by 2008. With over 30 years of experience, he’s renowned for his commitment to safety, earning the Navy Bronze Medal of Merit in 2022. Off-duty, he enjoys family time, boating and exploring in the great outdoors. 

Starting his seafaring career with MSC Cargo in 2005, Captain Francesco completed his nautical studies in Piano di Sorrento, Italy, and moved to MSC Cruises in 2010 – a highlight of which was overseeing the health protocols of MSC Grandiosa, the first cruise ship globally to resume after the Covid pandemic. After contributing to the delivery of MSC’s first LNG-powered ship as Second in Command, he led the EXPLORA II startup and delivery in September 2024, culminating in his promotion to Captain in 2026. When not onboard, he enjoys life in Varna on the Black Sea with his young family.

Captain Aureliano brings more than two decades of seafaring experience to Explora Journeys. Trained at the Colonna Maritime College in Rome, he has built his career across tankers and passenger ships, completing over a dozen world voyages. Promoted to Master at 37, he leads with the values of integrity, calm assurance, and a strong commitment to safety, team cohesion, and operational excellence—upholding Explora Journeys’ standards of effortless ocean travel. Captain Aureliano enjoys spending his free time with his loved ones, between the UK and the Italian island of Ponza where he has a rich family heritage.

Captain Arma has spent nearly 30 years at sea, leading ships and crews worldwide. After beginning his career on merchant vessels following his studies in Piano di Sorrento, he joined the cruise industry as a Deck Officer in 1998. Appointed Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic by President Sergio Mattarella, he joined Explora Journeys as Master in September 2026. Captain Arma believes true luxury lies in creating experiences and connections that make guests feel at home wherever the sea may lead them. Ashore, he enjoys cooking and spending time with his family and two Labradors.

Captain Cuccaro grew up in Sorrento, Italy, where his father's maritime career sparked a lifelong connection to the sea. After graduating from the Nautical School in Piano di Sorrento in 2002, he began his career as a Junior Deck Cadet aboard MSC Melody. Rising through the ranks before being appointed Master in 2023, a career highlight was serving as Staff Captain during the first MSC World Cruise. A firm believer in the human factor, he credits Explora Journeys' Hosts with creating exceptional guest experiences – together they bring the Ocean State of Mind to life through genuine hospitality and a deep connection to the sea. Captain Cuccaro is married to Rosa, whom he met at sea, and together they are raising their young family.