In conversation with Capt. Magone Vitola
Back to newsEvery safe and efficient voyage is made possible by skilled seafarers whose judgement, resilience and teamwork bring Ardmore’s values to life each day. Their experience and leadership are fundamental to maintaining high standards onboard, adapting to a changing industry and delivering operational excellence across the fleet.
Capt. Magone Vitola, Master of the Ardmore Enterprise, reflects on her path into seafaring, the lessons she has learned at sea and the importance of helping others grow. From embracing new technology to leading diverse crews, her story shows how strong teams, mutual support and a commitment to personal development can help people overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
Why did you choose a career in seafaring?
Most probably because I had no idea what it was, and I did not have any relatives or friends connected to the sea. I cannot say I chose a career; I chose to sail, and the career came naturally.
After graduating from 12th grade, I looked into the most interesting options and ended up at a maritime academy. I have never regretted my choice, and I still enjoy being at sea.
Can you describe your career journey?
Interesting, challenging and hard. But when you are doing things you truly like, hardship feels different.
My progression and promotions all happened naturally and at the right time. I was never rushing to be promoted; I enjoyed each position.
Getting through hard times shapes character and makes us stronger, more confident and calmer in stressful situations. I am grateful to all who refused to help me when I needed it, as that taught me to be self-confident and independent.
What has been your most memorable voyage?
It is not one particular voyage, but multiple voyages. It is not about the voyage itself, but about the people. With a good crew and a good team, all difficulties are easier to overcome.
I have had great luck working with a wide variety of nationalities and, in recent years, mostly with female crew. I have learned patience, mindfulness and team building.
People are the essence of seafaring. As a leader, I want my people to grow, get promoted and reach their dreams. I wish to inspire them and remove any doubts that they cannot do something. They can do anything.
What do you miss most when you are at sea?
I cannot say I miss anything. I focus on the present moment and live day by day. I like my job and my life outside it, but in my mind, they are two different things. When I am on the ship, I do not think too much about home; when I am at home, I do not think about the ship.
Be here and now. This is my understanding of life. I don’t live in the past, as it is already gone, nor in the future, because it is not promised. I have today, and I choose to be happy.
What is your favorite part of the world to sail in?
I like all parts of the world, without exception. But it is interesting to pass places that I previously travelled through by land, including the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Finisterre, Skagen and Cape Canaveral. Patagonia is also very beautiful when sailing through the inland waterways.
What is the biggest change you have seen onboard since starting your career?
The generation of people has changed. People today are more sensitive, in a good way. Regulations are stricter and expectations are higher.
Twenty years ago, there was no internet onboard; now it’s a must. We had paper charts; now we have artificial intelligence. Flexibility and the ability to adjust to change are important qualities for today’s seafarers.
Can you share an interesting fact about yourself?
I have been a vegetarian for the majority of my life, and I am a passionate traveler. I plan to visit every country.
I am a wakeboarder, snowboarder, ice skater, birder and hiker. One of my passions is Second World War tourism. I completed the Atlantic Wall from Skagen to the France-Spain border, including the Channel Islands. I have also been inside the tunnels of the Large Hadron Collider.
I am always on the move, so as not to waste the most important thing we have: time.
Capt. Vitola’s reflections show how technical capability and human leadership work hand in hand at sea. As the maritime industry continues to evolve through new technology, higher expectations and changing ways of working, adaptability remains essential. Just as important are the trust, confidence and sense of shared responsibility that enable a crew to perform at its best.
Her story also reflects Ardmore’s One Team culture: a belief that people are at the heart of safe, efficient and sustainable shipping. By supporting colleagues to develop, progress and pursue their ambitions, leaders such as Capt. Vitola help build capable, resilient teams that are ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead.