Captain Colm Ryan has joined Saga Cruises.

Working alongside Kim Tanner, Darin Bowland and Jason Ikiadis, he will become the latest master to operate the cruise line’s ocean ships, Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery.

Having grown up in Cork, Ireland, an area steeped in maritime traditions, Ryan is a veteran with three-decades of experience at sea.

He started as a cadet in the Merchant Navy, before moving to the cruise industry several years later, joining Holland America Line rising to the rank of captain and later serving as fleet master.

On joining Saga, Ryan said: “My career at sea is now in its 30th year, and over that time I have seen most of the world including amazing, out-of-the-way places rarely witnessed by outsiders.

“I hope that my experience in sailing the planet will benefit Saga as we bring a most unique cruising experience to our guests.”

Captain Ryan now lives in Nova Scotia in Canada with his wife and daughter. 

At home, he is active as a community volunteer, collects rare and antique books and he helps to run the family’s four-acre hobby farm.