Celebrity Cruises' Captain Kate McCue departs amid personal life changes

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Celebrity Cruises' Captain Kate McCue departs amid personal life changes

Research

Becky Blaine Senior editor | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Feb 24, 2025

Captain Kate McCue, recognized as the first American woman to captain a cruise ship, has announced her departure from Celebrity Cruises. McCue shared the news through an Instagram post on Monday, citing significant life changes as a reason for her decision. "You might be wondering why am I leaving," she wrote. "Simply put, life has an incredible way of reminding us what's important and changing up priorities."

The announcement follows closely after the loss of her cat, Bug Naked, who was known for its adventures at sea with McCue and gained popularity on Instagram.

McCue's tenure at Celebrity Cruises included hosting an International Women's Day cruise in 2020 aboard Celebrity Edge with an all-female bridge crew. Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, expressed admiration for McCue's impact: "Captain Kate inspires so many with the passion she puts into everything she touches." She extended well wishes on behalf of the company.

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Although details about McCue's future plans remain undisclosed, she hinted at continuing her series "The Captain's Log," which provides insights into life at sea. Despite leaving her current role, McCue assured followers that she will continue sailing: "I've got too much salt in my veins to leave the sea behind," she stated.