In an industry first, Celebrity Cruises President & CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo revealed that Greek brothers Dimitrios and Tasos Kafetzis had been named co-captains of Celebrity Ascent, the company’s 4th ship in its industry-transforming Edge Series, scheduled to debut in winter 2023.
The maritime brothers are taking the helm of the company’s newest vessel, brought to life by modern lifestyle icons like multi-award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE, American designer Nate Berkus, and Michelin-starred chef/restaurateur Daniel Boulud.
Lutoff-Perlo said Captain Dimitrios and Captain Tasos were their star-powered siblings, "a maritime dream team" given so much to the Celebrity family over the years that they were like a second family.
"This ship represents a monumental milestone for our brand, taking our innovative outward-facing design further than ever, and creating a whole new class of relaxed luxury resorts at sea. I am so proud to leave her in the hands of these expert mariners.”
Captain Dimitrios dedicated his maritime career, spanning 3+ decades, to Celebrity, having started as an Apprentice Officer on the line’s very first ship, the Horizon, back in 1990. Now, he reaches the pinnacle of the industry, being named take-out captain of the trailblazing ship. Born in Piraeus (Athens, Greece), Capt. Dimitrios has sailed aboard every different class of ship in the fleet and was also part of the start-up teams for Millennium, Infinity, Silhouette, and Apex.
Captain Tasos grew up watching his brother Dimitrios making a career on cruise ships, and followed in his footsteps. After graduating from the Merchant Marine College, he joined Celebrity in 1998, and over his 20+ year career with the brand, has been involved in the opening of Summit, Solstice, Equinox, and Reflection. Most recently, he has served as Celebrity Edge's captain.
The brothers are expected to alternate their time aboard Celebrity Ascent in a 3-months on-and-off rotation.