Abel M. Dimaano spent more than 30 years at sea with Princess Cruises, building a career defined by resilience, leadership, and purpose. Starting in 1991 with the goal of creating a better future for his family, he rose through the ranks to Restaurant Manager, faced challenges head-on, and left a lasting impact on the crew community. Now retired, he shares his experience through books like Sailing Through Life – My Princess Cruises Journey, Health Is the Real Wealth, Positive Life Begins with a Positive Mind, Rewire Your Mindset, and Believe in Yourself.

We are proud to present an exclusive interview with Mr. Abel, where he reflects on his journey at sea and how his writing continues to inspire and uplift crew members around the world.

Background & Career at Sea

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• - Could you tell us how your career with Princess Cruises began, and what inspired you to pursue a career at sea?

My career with Princess Cruises began on September 23, 1991, a date etched in my heart. I stepped onboard for the first time driven by a quiet but powerful desire: to give my family a brighter future, despite the challenges that lay ahead. I started humbly and grew through the ranks, eventually becoming a Restaurant Manager, a role that allowed me to lead with purpose and mentor countless crew members.

• - Over your three decades onboard, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a restaurant manager?

Over three decades onboard, I faced many challenges, but none more profound than those during times of crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, tested our resilience and unity. Balancing operational demands with emotional support became essential, and I learned that leadership is not just about systems - it’s about heart.

• - How did working with crew members from so many nationalities shape your perspective on teamwork and leadership?

Working with crew from diverse nationalities shaped my understanding of teamwork in powerful ways. I learned that respect, empathy, and shared purpose transcend language and culture. These lessons continue to guide me today.

Life Lessons & Inspiring Moments

• - What is one unforgettable memory from your time onboard that you still carry with you today?

One of the most unforgettable memories of my life at sea occurred on July 18, 2006, aboard the Crown Princess. Shortly after departing Port Canaveral, the ship tilted dramatically due to a steering error. In seconds, calm turned to chaos - furniture toppled, passengers and crew were injured, and fear swept through the decks.

That moment left an indelible mark on me. It served as a powerful reminder that life at sea can change in the blink of an eye. It taught me to lead with calm in crisis, to prioritize safety and empathy, and to never take a single moment for granted.

In the aftermath, I witnessed extraordinary resilience. Crew members supported one another, comforted guests, and restored order with quiet strength. That day reaffirmed my belief that true leadership is forged in adversity and that the human spirit, when united, can weather any storm.

Friendships & Crew Community

• - How important were friendships onboard, and are there any lasting bonds you still keep today?

Friendships onboard were lifelines. We became each other’s family, sharing laughter, tears, and dreams. Many of those bonds remain strong today - I still exchange messages and memories with former colleagues across the globe.

• - Many crew say that ships become a “home away from home.” Did you experience that sense of family with your colleagues?

Yes, the ship truly became a “home away from home.” We celebrated holidays together, supported each other through hardships, and created traditions that made life at sea feel deeply human.

• - What advice would you give to crew members who are struggling with the challenges of long contracts far from loved ones?

To crew members struggling with long contracts far from loved ones, I say: stay anchored to your “why.” Whether it’s family, personal growth, or a dream you’re chasing - hold onto that purpose. And never hesitate to lean on your shipmates; you’re never alone.

Transition to Writing

• - What motivated you to start writing books after your retirement from Princess Cruises?

After retiring, I felt a calling to give back. Writing became my vessel for sharing lessons, honoring the crew community, and inspiring others. My books blend memoir with motivation, offering practical wellness tips and reflections from life at sea.

• - Why did you decide to publish some of your books under the pen name Captain A.?

I chose the pen name Captain A. not to reflect rank, but responsibility. It symbolizes the captaincy we all hold over our own lives, choices, and legacies.

• - How do your books—especially the motivational ones—connect with your own experiences at sea?

My motivational books are deeply rooted in my seafaring experience. They reflect the storms we weather, the anchors we find, and the courage it takes to keep sailing forward.

Advice for the Crew

• - If you could give one piece of advice to today’s crew members, what would it be?

If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be: Lead with kindness and never stop learning. Every contract is a chapter in your growth - embrace it fully.

• - In your view, how can crew better take care of their health and mindset while working onboard?

To care for your health and mindset onboard, create small rituals: morning stretches, journaling, laughter with friends, and moments of quiet. Wellness isn’t just physical, it’s emotional and spiritual too.

• - Looking back at your career, what does “Sailing through life” mean to you personally?

Looking back, “Sailing Through Life” under my name - Abel M. Dimaano,  means navigating with purpose. It’s about steering through calm and chaos with grace, learning from every wave, and leaving a wake of goodness behind.

• - Thank you for the interview Mr. Dimaano

Thank you again for the opportunity to share my story. I hope these reflections uplift and inspire those who continue to serve at sea. May we all keep sailing forward - with courage, compassion, and community.