Maria Gotor now commands the Disney Wish after leaving a six-year law career in Spain to retrain as a merchant marine officer.
Gotor announced her promotion in June, becoming Disney Cruise Line's first woman captain. She joined the cruise line in 2024 after 15 years in cruise ship operations.
Her career change began with a visit to the bridge of a ferry crossing the Strait of Gibraltar. Gotor earned a master's degree in nautical engineering and maritime navigation while working, then returned to the same ferry company as an officer.
Six years of coastal navigation led to the cruise industry in 2009. She worked her way up to staff captain before moving to Disney Cruise Line.
Gotor described command of the Disney Wish as handling a floating city without brakes. The job covers navigation, safety and the shipboard operation behind each sailing.
Photos of Captain Maria Gotor Aboard the Disney Wish
Source and images: Disney Experiences. Promotion announcement: Maria Gotor on Instagram. Historical first: Cruise Mummy.