Simone Maraschi, MD, Cruise Gate Hamburg, shares his cruise industry firsts.
August 3, 2026
Global in scale, intimate in spirit – Maraschi is fond of how the cruise industry's close community continues to bring familiar faces together across continents.
Describe the first time you saw a cruise ship.
In my early career days I worked in Genova for a few months. I remember arriving at the Port of Genoa and seeing not just one, but several cruise ships with the old skyline of the Italian city in the background. It was one of those moments you don't forget.
What was the first cruise-related company you worked for as a young professional, and what was your role?
My first job in the industry was with a cruise and ferry company, Grandi Navi Veloci in 2005. At the time, I thought I was just taking on a new job. Little did I know I was signing up for a career where words like "berthing windows," "shore power" and "port congestion" would eventually become part of my everyday vocabulary.
What was your first cruise experience as a passenger?
My first experience as a cruise guest wasn't on a typical cruise ship. It was in the beautiful Ha Long Bay, on board one of the ships that sail through the bay. There were only around 20 passengers on board, so it felt very personal and exclusive. Not exactly a megaship, but I have to admit, it set the bar pretty high.
Name your first cruise industry mentor or inspiration.
It's difficult to name just one person. I've been lucky to meet many inspiring people throughout my career, from ports, cruise lines and industry associations. I've learned something from all of them.
And your first memory of a Seatrade Cruise event?
My first Seatrade Cruise Global was in Miami in 2009. What I immediately enjoyed most was the small size of the cruise industry. You meet someone at a conference and see them again a few weeks later on the other side of the world. That's one of the things I enjoy most about this industry: it's global, but it still feels like a close community.
