A Swedish woman has been named master of the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Monarch of the Seas, becoming the first female captain to command a major cruise ship.

Karin Stahre-Janson, who previously served as staff captain, the No. 2 position on Brilliance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, and Majesty of the Seas, will assume her new position in August.

Captain Stahre-Janson has been an officer on Royal Caribbean’s ships since 1997. Prior to joining Royal Caribbean, Captain Stahre-Janson worked for nine years in cargo shipping, primarily on petroleum and chemical tankers.

“We are tremendously proud and pleased by Captain Stahre-Janson’s promotion,” said Adam Goldstein, president of Royal Caribbean International.  “This is historic news – for our company and the entire cruise industry – and a tremendous inspiration for women in any line of work, particularly a maritime career.”  

The Los Angeles-based Monarch of the Seas sails three- and four-night cruises out of Los Angeles to San Diego, Catalina and Ensenada, Mexico.