Francesco Rosiello, director of itinerary planning and nautical, MSC Cruises, shares his cruise industry firsts.
July 27, 2026
Francesco was captivated when he first encountered a cruise ship in Palma de Mallorca while working as a ferry deck officer PHOTO: MSC CRUISES
Describe the first time you saw a cruise ship.
The first cruise ship I ever saw was in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. At the time, I was working as a deck officer for a ferry company operating routes between Barcelona, Valencia and the Balearic Islands. Seeing that ship alongside for the first time was unforgettable. I was struck not only by its size and elegance, but also by the incredible complexity of the operation behind it. It sparked immediate curiosity about the cruise industry and made me realize that this was a world I wanted to be part of.
What was the first cruise-related company you worked for as a young professional, and what was your role?
My first role in the cruise industry was with Princess Cruises, where I joined as a third officer on my first contract. It was an exciting milestone and my first opportunity to experience the complexity of operating a large cruise ship. The role involved navigational watchkeeping, emergency preparedness and supporting the bridge team. That first contract challenged me professionally, strengthened my leadership skills and confirmed that I had found the career I wanted to pursue.
What was your first cruise experience as a passenger?
My first cruise as a passenger was aboard Holland America Line's Oosterdam, and it remains one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. What made it especially meaningful was that the itinerary had been one I helped design two years earlier in a previous role. I wanted to experience the voyage through the eyes of a guest and see firsthand how the itinerary came to life. Watching guests enjoy the destinations and experiences we had so carefully planned was incredibly rewarding. It reinforced how thoughtful itinerary planning shapes the guest experience and gave me an even greater appreciation for the work behind every voyage.
Name your first cruise industry mentor or inspiration.
One of the people who has had the greatest influence on my career is Ugo Savino, senior director of deployment & itinerary planning at Carnival Cruise Line. During my previous role, Ugo was an exceptional mentor, generously sharing his expertise and strategic approach to itinerary planning and deployment. His passion for the industry, attention to detail and ability to balance commercial objectives with outstanding guest experiences have had a lasting impact on how I approach my own work. His guidance has inspired me to keep learning, think strategically, and continually strive for excellence.
And your first memory of a Seatrade Cruise event?
My first Seatrade Cruise event was Seatrade Cruise Global 2019 in Miami. It was my first opportunity to attend a global event dedicated entirely to cruising and I remember being energised by the atmosphere. One of my favorite memories was listening to industry leaders share their vision for the future of cruising and the innovations shaping the sector. It was inspiring to be surrounded by so many people who shared the same passion for the industry and it reinforced my excitement about building a long-term career in cruising.
Source: sea-trade cruise
