How does one become a Marine Superintendent LSA/FFE? For many, the path is not always straightforward, but for Christian Di Mauro, it has been a journey of dedication, hands-on experience, and an unwavering passion for maritime safety.
“My maritime journey began in 2005 after graduating from Nautical School,” Christian Di Mauro recalls. “I started as a Deck Cadet on chemical tankers, which laid the foundation for my career at sea. Over the years, I had the opportunity to work on various vessel types, including Ro-Ro container ships and sailing ships, each offering unique challenges and learning experiences.” In 2010, Christian joined AIDA Cruises, where a new chapter in his career unfolded. “It was during my time with AIDA that I truly developed my expertise in safety operations, compliance, and emergency response,” he shares. “Over the years, I worked my way up through the ranks, eventually reaching the position of Chief Officer. My focus on safety became stronger, as I understood its critical role in the smooth and secure operation of any vessel.”
After nearly a decade on board, he transitioned ashore in 2019, stepping into a new role as a Safety Superintendent at Carnival Maritime in Hamburg. “Moving to a shore-based position was a significant shift, but it allowed me to broaden my knowledge of fleet safety management, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence across multiple vessels,” he explains, adding, “I was no longer just ensuring safety on a single ship—I was now responsible for an entire fleet.”
Building on this extensive experience, he embraced an exciting new opportunity: joining Columbia Cruise Services (CCS) as an LSA/FFA Superintendent. “Now, my role is to ensure compliance with industry safety standards, oversee life-saving appliances (LSA) and firefighting equipment (FFA), and continuously work on enhancing safety operations across the CCS fleet,” he says. “It’s a role that requires attention to detail, a proactive approach, and a commitment to excellence in maritime safety.”
For Christian, safety is more than just a job—it’s a mission. “Maritime safety is something I’m deeply passionate about,” he states. “Whether on board or ashore, my goal has always been to uphold the highest standards and ensure that crews, vessels, and passengers are always protected. At COLUMBIA cruise services, I have the opportunity to contribute to a culture of safety and continuous improvement every single day.”
For those looking to build a career in maritime safety, Christian’s advice is: “Be eager to learn, embrace challenges, and always put safety first. The industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires both experience and continuous education. Most importantly, find a company that values and prioritises safety—because that’s where you’ll truly make an impact.”
