Silversea Cruises has named its line-up of experienced senior officers for the maiden voyage of its new ship Silver Nova.
The ultra-luxury cruise ship – the first Nova-class ship in the fleet – will depart on its maiden voyage on Monday (August 14) with a roundtrip from Venice, visiting Slovenia, Croatia and Montenegro.
The cruise line said the launch represents “an important milestone” on (parent company) Royal Caribbean Group’s journey to Destination Net Zero.
Captain Cosimo Pontillo, master of Silver Nova, said: “Having been with Silversea Cruises for almost 30 years, I have witnessed the evolution of the fleet first-hand.
“Silver Nova represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury cruise travel and I am excited to welcome our guests aboard to experience her many innovations.”
Captain Pontillo graduated from the Messina Nautical High School in 1983 then worked on cargo vessels after his time in the navy, before moving into the cruise industry.
In 1994, he joined Silversea Cruises for the launches of Silver Cloud and Silver Wind. He has taken the helm of most ships in the Silversea fleet, including various expedition vessels.
More: Silversea Cruises delays launch of first Nova-class ship
Hotel director for Nova’s maiden season is Lester Woodfall, who was born and raised in southern India.
His international career began in luxury hotels in Bahrain, after which he moved to the United Arab Emirates, where he worked for several five-star resorts.
Woodfall joined the cruise industry in 2001, and will now oversee departments on Nova ranging from food & beverage to housekeeping, shore excursions, and entertainment.
Cruise director is Vicki Van Tassel, whose show business career includes Broadway, national and international tours, and television shows.
She started her career at sea with Silversea in 2011, performing as a vocalist, and she became cruise director in 2015.
She has been cruise director on almost every ship in Silversea’s fleet.
