Metro Cruise Services

12/06/2024

Celebrating the holiday season with our incredible Metro Ports and Metro Cruise teams in Galveston! For over two decades, this operational hub has been a cornerstone of excellence, thanks to the dedication of the folks in these photos.

Here’s to the hardworking team that keeps it all moving—happy holidays to all!

Michael Nelson Anthony Newman Lee Swietlikowski Robert Van Leeuwen Amy Nelson Bobby Oberlechner, BS, MEd, CSP Teri Buller Doug Petersen-Bava, SPHR Christopher Cornwell

PORT OF GALVESTON

10/28/2024

Meet Sabrina Edwards, our Sr. Director of Operations. Sabrina's journey with us began through a combination of fate and opportunity. She started as a part-time check-in agent for Holland America in 2002, drawn by the fast-paced environment and unique daily challenges. In 2019, after reconnecting with cruise operations in Miami, Sabrina was approached by Metro’s leadership with an exciting West Coast role. Aligned with Metro’s culture and vision, Sabrina has spent over two decades bringing her special brand of collaborative leadership to every aspect of our operations.

Let’s hear more from Sabrina:

Q: Describe your current role and the locations you oversee.
A: My role centers on bringing together the people, tools, and resources to meet and exceed customer expectations. I oversee operations across Galveston, Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego, San Francisco, and Seattle. This includes managing staffing, transport, client interactions, and the financial planning for each location. Additionally, I work with the team managing terminals 27 & 35 in San Francisco and support our sister company, Terminal Security Solutions, Inc., with system rollouts and procedural updates.

Q: How do you manage a demanding travel schedule?
A: Honestly, it’s a balance, and no one truly “manages it all.” Living by my calendar helps, as does saying “no” when needed. My team and family keep me connected while I’m on the road, and I’m lucky to work with a brilliant group that communicates well and steps up whenever necessary.

Q: What’s notable about the team you work with?
A: I’m part of a team that loves the industry and our organization. We bring together diverse experiences, from seasoned veterans to newcomers exploring their career paths, all focused on delivering exceptional service. It takes substantial behind-the-scenes effort to ensure that we’re staffed with individuals who are as committed to excellence as we are.

Q: What achievements are you most proud of at MSS?
A: I’m incredibly proud of our team’s resilience and growth during the cruise pause and restart. We used that time to strengthen our processes, resulting in more self-sufficient teams at each port. Their dedication has led to higher client satisfaction and a stronger, more united operation.

Q: Can you share a personal philosophy that guides your work?
A: A mentor once told me, “Teach yourself out of a job.” Initially, it sounded odd, but I’ve come to see it as embracing a mindset that values continuous growth and development. This perspective has shaped how I approach leadership and support my team and their individual success.

Q: Any advice for those considering this industry as a career?
A: You’ll meet amazing people and gain unique experiences. Embrace the work, make connections, be kind and remember people’s names. Remember it’s a process—Our industry can be rewarding in different ways and the adrenaline rush you get from a successful and hectic ship day in cruise is inexplicably addictive!

10/11/2024

Celebrating 10 Years of Partnership at the Pier 27 James R. Herman Cruise Terminal!

For a decade, Metro and the The Port of San Francisco have worked hand-in-hand to make Pier 27 a world-class gateway to the city. Since its opening in 2014, this terminal has welcomed millions of passengers, hosted hundreds of events, driven economic growth, and created hundreds of jobs.

Special thanks to Speaker Emerita Pelosi, City Attorney David Chu, Board President Aaron Peskin, Port Leadership, including, Commissioner and ILWU President Willie Adams, Executive Director Elaine Forbes and Maritime Director Andre Coleman and our very own team members Itzel Monzon, Thomas Curry, Robert Owens, Brian Johnson, Lee Swietlikowski, Anthony Newman, Michael DePietropaolo, Michael San Gaspar, John Millacci and Vivian Perez, CMP for making it a momentous event.

We look forward to many more years of partnership, growth, and shared success at Pier 27!

10/02/2024

We’re excited to expand our partnership with Princess Cruises and welcome their ships back-to-back to the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro.

Our Metro Shore Services team was thrilled to kick off our first weekend with the Royal Princess on September 28th, sending off guests on a spectacular 29-night Transpacific cruise. And then on Sunday, September 29th supporting the Grand Princess on a 16-night Hawaiian cruise. A total of approximately 6,500 embarking guests!

Thank you to Miles, Cindy and the Princess team for your support this weekend. And a big thanks to our fabulous LA team for setting the pace for what we hope are many more successful sailings and exceptional service ahead!





Clark Love Alfaro

09/26/2024

Michael Nelson has been a cornerstone of cruise stevedoring operations in Galveston since 2000. Joining Metro Cruise in 2011, he has managed operations for major lines like Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Princess. Mike’s dedication to seamless operations, safety, and building strong partnerships has made him an invaluable leader in the region.

Let’s hear more about Mike:

Q: We know you and your team are highly accomplished. What does a typical day on the job look like for you?
A: My responsibilities include the loading of all cruise ship provisions, supplies, and luggage on board as well as the discharging of guest luggage and offloads. I work closely alongside the cruise lines, crew members, vessel and port personnel, shoreside security, CBP, and cruise lines' embarkation teams.

Q: What are some of your favorite projects you’ve worked on?
A: Drydock loadings are always challenging but rewarding knowing that we are working to improve and upgrade the vessels.

Q: What achievements are you most proud of during your time at MCS?
A: There are times when vessels arrive late for various reasons. Being able to step up the operation and still sail on time in an effort to get the ships back on schedule is paramount. Safety projects are always at the forefront of the Metro culture. Getting the vessels to sail on time while doing what we can to ensure that our workers return home safely is especially rewarding.

Q: How do you approach challenges and problem-solving in your work? Can you give a recent example?
A: The only constant is change. We operate in an ever-changing dynamic industry. Being able to adapt to these opportunities is not only important, but also expected. With the recent arrival of the Carnival Jubilee with over 6,500 guests cruising, we had to adjust for the increased amount of luggage and provisions to load on board.

Q: What is a personal philosophy that guides your work?
A: I feel that our efforts are not judged by what we do under normal circumstances. We are judged by how we react and perform when conditions are less than ideal. By sticking to a critical path, and following a mostly linear thought process, I am able to satisfy our customers' needs. I understand that in my efforts to succeed, my decisions are not going to always appease everyone. I tell my team, "If you want to make everybody happy, go sell ice cream."

Q: What do you love about working at the Ports of Galveston and Mobile?
A: The relationships. I consider my network and partnerships with these ports to be a strength and accomplishment. Seeing everyone work to achieve an ultimate goal is rewarding.

Q: Who would you like to acknowledge as contributors or role models to your success at MCS?
A: Metro has always provided top-down support to my operations to ensure success. The entire Metro culture permeates throughout the organization and continues to make us a highly respected company. ⚓

07/29/2024

and help us welcome Michael DePietropaolo, our newest Operations Manager at MSS! With a lengthy career in San Francisco's events industry, including producing countless events at Pier 27 and serving as Event Venue Manager at Metro Events, Michael brings a unique and valuable experience to our San Francisco team.

Let’s hear more about Michael’s journey and vision for the future:

Q: What were your first impressions of MSS and our Port of San Francisco location?

A: The view from my office window overlooking the San Francisco Bay never gets old! Our team is a terrific, small, close-knit group, and my first impressions of MSS came in the form of a question that I asked myself: How lucky would I be to work here?

Q: Can you share some of the key projects you’ve worked on since joining MSS?

A: I continually examine our terminal operations to maximize efficiencies without compromising the Guest Experience. It's a constant work in progress. Whenever we change a passenger flow or check-in procedure, I always ask, "How can we make this even better?"

Q: What achievements are you most proud of so far?

A: Planning our irregular turn with Grand Princess at Pier 80 took months of effort and coordination with the city. Bringing together so many people and organizations was a massive task, but in the end, I couldn’t have been prouder of our team for pulling off such a monumental event.

Q: How do you see your role evolving, and what impact do you hope to have on the company’s strategic initiatives?

A: When I joined last October, I learned about the challenges and inefficiencies at the San Francisco terminal. I'm working to make it as systematic and organized as possible, ensuring passengers experience the smoothest and friendliest embarkation or debarkation in the world. As a high-profile city, I want our terminal to always live up to its reputation.

Q: Can you share a personal philosophy that guides your work?

A: As a manager, I believe in providing my employees with everything they need to be successful at their jobs—information, training, equipment, guidance, and leadership—so they can focus on providing excellent customer service and a superior terminal experience.

Q: Can you share something personal that people would be surprised to learn about you?

A: Growing up outside Philadelphia, I always knew I'd move to California to escape the winters. At 19, I bought a one-way ticket to San Francisco and have lived here ever since. Though my family wasn’t thrilled about my move, their support made it easier for me to stay and call this city home.

Q: What advice would you give to new employees at MSS?

A: Most of our ground agents have had long, successful careers and now work a few times a month to stay connected with colleagues and friends. Most importantly, because it's fun! Whether they prefer check-in, wheelchair pushing, or directional roles, we have a position for everyone and welcome them onboard! ⚓

06/25/2024

Happy Day of the Seafarer!

Today, we honor our seafaring customers and colleagues whose work at sea connects families, commerce and nations. Thank you for your dedication. We at Metro Cruise stand proudly by and ready to be of service pier side.

06/18/2024

and our very own Jerry Ward! As our Transportation Manager in Seattle, Jerry oversees transportation for nearly 4,000 cruise guests weekly, ensuring seamless and comfortable journeys from airport arrivals to pier departures.

Let’s learn more about Jerry:

Q: What led you to your current role at MSS?

A: I have been in the Transportation and Logistics industry for over 30 years as well as the Service/Hospitality industry for 20 years. With Metro, I saw the combination of both industries where I have been able to combine these skills successfully.

We are there at the beginning of every passenger's journey and can help set the tone for them. I love that I can contribute to a memorable experience for them.

Q: Tell us about your home port of Seattle?

A: The Seattle area has some of the most beautiful natural surroundings. From the Pier you can view the Olympic Mountain range, Mount Rainier, the Puget Sound. The early morning sights and sounds, before debarkation, is very calming and helps me relax and clear my mind.

Q: Tell us about a time at work that's brought you a great sense of accomplishment?

A: Last year, an older couple got separated from their family at the airport. One of them had dementia and the other Alzheimer’s. I was asked to help find them.

I first contacted our airport staff who searched the airport to no avail. My hope was that they boarded one of our shuttles. I waited at the pier and checked every arriving bus, finally finding them on the second-to-last one. They were frightened and disoriented, but I assured them I would take care of them. With some coordination, our staff reunited them with their grateful family. It feels wonderful to support our guests when they need us most.

Q: Tell us about your team members?

A: They are compassionate and committed to the highest level of service to our guests. From pushing wheelchairs across the airport to recovering delayed flight luggage, the willingness they have to help in challenging circumstances is inspiring.

Q: Can you describe a recent situation where your team had to overcome a challenge?

A: Last year we had to provide transport (both embark and debark) for the entire Celebrity Solstice ship on the same day we had Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Sea in port. It was an incredibly long day and the most transfers we have ever had. The Pier and Airport staff did an incredible job. On the day of debarkation, the Pier staff transferred close to 3,000 passengers in 3.5 hours.

Q: What is something personal people would be surprised to learn about you?

A: I come from a long line of Marine Corp veterans, my father, myself, my brother, my daughter and my stepson.

Q: What would you want people who are considering a job at MSS to know?

A: I have never felt as appreciated as I do at Metro. The management and staff genuinely care about providing the best service while ensuring a fun, safe, and happy work environment for employees.

06/12/2024

A Celebration for a Cause at Havana Night's Gala!
Metro was proud to be a Rumba Sponsor at the Family Service Center of Galveston County's 's Gala!

Our team, alongside ILA Local 20, was honored for our community efforts. It was a festive night, all in support of a great cause. Together, we’re committed to making a positive impact in our community.

06/03/2024

Thank you Family Service Center of Galveston County! We are honored to be a part of such an important cause.

🎉 We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Metro Cruise Services for their incredible support as a Rumba sponsor of our upcoming Havana Nights Gala! 🌟 Your contribution helps us continue our mission of serving the community. See you on Saturday, June 8th at the Galveston Island Convention Center! 💫

05/21/2024

Our Long Beach team bid a heartfelt farewell to the Carnival Miracle as she sets sail for her summer home in San Francisco. Best wishes to our San Francisco team as they warmly welcome her back for her third summer vacation in the Bay Area.

The Port of San Francisco
Carnival Cruise Line

05/08/2024

Captains Meeting: Our Metro agency head, Amy Nelson, working together with Carnival captains dock side in Galveston, TX.

One crucial role as agents is to support our cruise ship captains, ensuring an on-time arrival and celebrating a seamless operation.

Carnival Cruise Line



Captain Andrea Catalani
Captain Stefano Bonica
Captain Niccolo' De Ranieri
Staff Captain Francesco Rivano
Staff Captain Gerardo Esposito
Bridge Officer Giacomo Carrodano
Bridge 2nd Officer Mirko Orlandi
Bridge 2nd Officer Eugenio Serpa
CBP Chief North

Michael Nelson
Amy Hervin Nelson aka The Captain

05/04/2024

Celebrating milestones: Welcome to Long Beach, Carnival Firenze! Launched on April 25, 2024, with 4,274 guests, she joins an exciting Carnival fleet alongside Radiance and Panorama, all based in Long Beach, CA!

As the Carnival Miracle departs for San Francisco on May 8, we're proud to continue our tradition of vibrant beginnings, reminiscent of Carnival Panorama's debut in 2019 and Carnival Radiance's introduction in 2021.

Here’s to continued successful sailings and wonderful guest experiences courtesy of our talented ground services team!

Carnival Cruise Line
Port of Long Beach



Clarisa Stollenwerck
Tatiana Perez
Carlos Estrada
Leon Sutcliff
Yerandys Martell
Steven Rosado
Nicolette Lazar
Jennifer Marie Davies
Marcus Davies

Paul Ramirez
Maribel Garcia
Sabrina Edwards
Janet Griffiths
Ernie Chavez II

05/01/2024

and the talented Marti Collier who has had an extensive career in almost all aspects of cruise line operations, holding various management roles across major U.S. cities as well as international work. She has been managing our Los Angeles and San Diego airport transportation and pier operations with much success since 2020.

Let’s learn more about Martina:

Q: You’ve been making a huge impact since you arrived at Metro, what do you attribute to your success?

A: I feel my experience working in several facets of the industry, including onboard ships, provides me with a unique insight and understanding of the entire operation. Having worked in numerous cruise terminals around the country and in Europe has given me invaluable experience.

Q: You’ve worked in many different locations, what do you like most about your current port?

A: I love working at the Port of Los Angeles. It’s my hometown. I was born and raised in San Pedro and have several family members and friends who work in the port. I had the opportunity to watch the cruise terminal at Berth 92 be constructed and worked there when it was new. It’s a very special place.

Q: Is there a recent highlight in your work that has brought you a great sense of accomplishment?

A: Getting through all of the pandemic restrictions, while maintaining high client ratings and keeping our team healthy, was definitely a huge accomplishment.

Q: That’s quite a success for you and your team. Tell us more about being on Team Los Angeles?

A: Our team culture is inclusive and fun. I try to foster an environment where my team feels appreciated and connected to our daily operations and accomplishments. We’re all about business, but we do manage to have a lot of fun while we are getting the job done.

Q: Is there a time when your team had to collaborate to overcome a challenge?

A: We recently had a ship arrive late and with a high volume of GI cases. The ship had to be decontaminated, which delayed boarding. Additionally, the terminal’s escalators were not functioning. We encountered several early arrivals and the terminal filled up to capacity. Our team managed to keep smiles on their faces and a positive attitude, while moving thousands of guests onboard very smoothly and with minimal complaints. It was challenging but a proud moment.

Q: What would you want people who are considering a job at Metro to know?

A: Metro Shore Services provides a great balance between work and home life and a flexible schedule. It’s a fast-paced, action-packed environment, where no day is the same.

04/30/2024

We are incredibly proud of our San Francisco team for their successful operation for Grand Princess’ unique sailing out of Pier 80 on Saturday. It took creativity and meticulous planning to manage the turnaround of the nearly 949 ft vessel capable of housing 2600 guests from a RoRo terminal.

Over at Pier 27 our team was also managing the full turnaround of Crown Princess. Special thanks to the The Port of San Francisco and Princess Cruises, San Francisco Police Department and USCG for their partnership and ILWU locals whose proactivity and teamwork made this unique double operation possible.

Sabrina Edwards
Paul Ramirez
Itzel Monzon
Michael DePietropaolo
Robert van Leeuwen

04/24/2024

Teamwork in action! Our dedicated Metro team along with our Port of Galveston colleagues lending a hand on for a cleaner, greener environment along Harborside Drive. Keeping our beloved port and planet pristine, one clean-up at a time!

PORT OF GALVESTON
Michael Nelson

04/18/2024

Exciting Management Opportunity at Metro Cruise’s esteemed Port of San Francisco location!

Join our San Francisco operations team serving some of the world's leading cruise lines in this active port. We’re looking for top talent to fill this role. Click to apply or share with someone you know.

https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/6ab042d6-9866-4245-8085-eabd6b45dcc1/Metro-Cruise

04/12/2024

Thanks to for another fantastic event this week. Our team came away with valuable take-aways, new connections with potential partners and very complimentary feedback from our customers; inspiring us to keep doing what we’re doing.

There continues to be exciting opportunities in the cruise industry for all of our teams from ground services, stevedoring, logistics and security. The overriding message that is we are only as good as our people, and we are blessed with having some exceptional talent leading the way into another tremendous season for Metro.

Terminal Security Solutions, Inc.
Seatrade Maritime
Nautilus International Holding Corporation
Robert Van Leeuwen
Brian Johnson
Alex A.
Robert Owens
Mike Lee
Sabrina Edwards
Jonathan Tulier
Jose Serrano