http://www.metrocruiseservices.com/

Metro Cruise Services, 231 Windsor Way, Long Beach, CA (2026)

03/23/2026

| Connie Magaña

Operations Manager – Port of Los Angeles

Connie’s 20-year career in cruise and hospitality began as a check-in agent and grew into leadership roles across multiple ports with Disney Cruise Line, including launching West Coast and Alaska sailings. After leading guest operations for major NASA launch events, Connie returned to L.A. to rejoin the cruise industry, where she now leads operations, supporting year-round sailings at the Port of Los Angeles, with more than 220 vessel calls annually.

Q: What does a typical turnaround day look like for your team?
A: We start early as the ship arrives. Our team works closely with shipboard staff, porters, stevedores, security, and CBP to ensure guests disembark safely, retrieve luggage, clear customs, and move through the terminal efficiently.

At the same time, we’re preparing for embarkation, welcoming new guests, guiding them through check-in, and getting them onboard. There are always challenges throughout the day, but it’s rewarding to see everything come together as guests begin their trip.

Q: Tell us more about the customers and guests you serve.
A: We serve a wide range of guests, from first-time cruisers to seasoned travelers, including those on extended and world voyages. No matter their experience level or age, there’s always a shared excitement when they arrive to begin their journey.

Q: How does your team ensure a smooth and welcoming start to each guest’s experience?
A: It starts with the team. They take pride in what they do, and it shows. From warmly greeting guests to guiding them through the terminal and assisting with special needs, they focus on keeping everything organized and moving smoothly while creating a strong first impression.

Q: How has your experience across multiple ports shaped how you lead your team today?
A: It’s given me a broader perspective on operations. Each location is unique, and I share those experiences with my team to help them understand guest expectations and prepare for different scenarios.

Q: Is there a time your team had to quickly adapt to keep operations running smoothly?
A: We recently lost power in one of the terminals during embarkation at peak arrival time, and lines quickly built up inside and outside the terminal.

Our team immediately prepared to transition to manual check-in while keeping guests informed and organized. Fortunately, power returned within about thirty minutes, and the team moved quickly to recover. Despite the disruption, the ship sailed on time.

Q: What qualities make a strong Metro Shore team?
A: A strong work ethic and a commitment to going beyond guest satisfaction. The team takes pride in exceeding expectations every day.

Q: Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time?
A: I enjoy spending time with my family and am grateful to be back in Los Angeles. I also love visiting my daughter in Vancouver, taking my dog for walks, going to Disneyland, and watching the Dodgers. 🛳️

02/24/2026

| Thomas Curry
Senior Operations Manager – San Francisco

Thomas began his waterfront career in 2010 in container operations in Oakland, spending six years building a strong operational foundation. After transitioning to Metro at the Port of Stockton, he gained four years of bulk and breakbulk experience before joining Metro’s HSE team to deepen his safety leadership. Nearly two years ago, he moved into cruise operations. Today, Thomas brings cross-sector experience in containers, bulk, HSE, and cruise to Pier 27, delivering steady leadership at one of the West Coast’s premier cruise terminals.

Q: Tell us about your operation in San Francisco.
A: We operate out of Pier 27 on the Embarcadero, between the Ferry Building and Pier 39. Sailings include Mexico, Hawaii year-round, and Canada and Alaska seasonally. Our primary customers are Princess, Carnival, Holland America, Cunard, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and several world cruise operators.

Q: What defines a successful turnaround day?
A: Zero injuries is always a top priority. Beyond that, smooth luggage operations, timely stores delivery, engaged workforce, satisfied guests, and the vessel sailing on or near its 1600 departure.

Q: How do you manage peak operations while balancing safety and guest experience?
A: Emergencies always come first. From there, it’s about clear prioritization and staying visible. I walk the vessel and terminal before operations begin to identify potential risks, then remain present in luggage halls and guest areas throughout the day. In San Francisco, slips and trips are common, so maintaining clear walkways and proactive communication is essential to keeping operations efficient, safe, and guest-focused.

Q: Tell us about a project you’re most proud of.
A: Completing two full vessel turns in one day, including one at Pier 80, which is not our typical terminal. After weeks of planning and equipment moves, both ships sailed on time with no injuries. It was demanding but incredibly rewarding.

Q: What excites you about the future of Metro Cruise?
A: The expansion into new terminals is a major opportunity. As cruise operations evolve with AI integration, sustainability initiatives like Green Marine, and an increased focus on safety and security. Supporting new locations allows us to apply those best practices in real time. I’m especially excited about traveling to new sites, learning from different operations, and bringing those insights back to our port to continuously strengthen our performance.

Q: How do you spend time outside of work, and what might people be surprised to learn about you?
A: I enjoy traveling, sports, concerts, and spending time with friends and family. I recharge a few hours north at our family ranch, with off-roading, wood cutting, s***t shooting, and enjoying the outdoors. I played college football at junior college and the University of Nevada, Reno, and was inducted into the Mendocino College Sports Hall of Fame. 🏈⚓

02/10/2026

🛳️🎉 Celebrating Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 as she called in Long Beach, Los Angeles, and San Francisco during her 108‑night world voyage.

Her call in Long Beach marked a rare and memorable moment — a reunion with her legendary namesake, the original Queen Mary, for the first time in 20 years.

Our operations teams take great pride in supporting iconic vessels and trusted cruise partners, bringing genuine enthusiasm, precision, and reliability to every call across the West Coast and beyond. ⚓🌊

Cunard

11/20/2025

Wonderful to give a behind-the-scenes tour of the Pier 27 James R. Herman Cruise Terminal to D3 Supervisor Danny Sauter and SF Port Commission President Gail Gilman, MNA during last week's turnaround of the Ruby Princess before it headed down to Mexico with over 3,000 passengers.

Cruise is a vital part of San Francisco's tourism industry and the Metro team, their staff, and so many talented ILWU union members work tirelessly to make every call run smoothly and on time. Thank you for all that you do!

Pictured: Jordan Taylor, Supervisor Sauter, President Gilman, Boris Delepine, and Metro's own Anthony Newman, Michael DePietropaolo, Thomas Curry, Matthew Holl and Itzel Monzon.

11/04/2025

Now | Seattle Cruise Terminal
📢 Metro Cruise Services is expanding our Seattle team! From guest services to cruise cargo stevedoring, site security, and traffic control, our operations keep the cruise terminal running smoothly all season long.

If you or someone you know is ready to lead in a fast-paced maritime environment and be part of a company known for precision and reliability, explore our openings today: 👉 https://nautilus.rec.pro.ukg.net/NAU1500NAUT/JobBoard/77694d84-df31-4a8b-8015-6eed0b68f2d9/?q=&o=postedDateDesc&w=&wc=&we=&wpst=

10/14/2025

| Robert Van Leeuwen
National Director of Cruise Operations 🛳️

For Robert Van Leeuwen, a maritime career was more than a choice—it was a calling. Raised in Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port, and the son of a Sea Captain turned Port Captain, Robert grew up immersed in stories of ships, storms, and cargo. After graduating from the Maritime Academy in Rotterdam and building a 25-year career across the Netherlands and Southern California, he joined Metro in 2024—drawn by the company’s energy, momentum, and long-term vision for growth.

Here’s more from Robert:

Q: What first drew you to Metro—and what are you most proud of so far?
A: Joining Metro in April 2024 was the best decision I’ve made. In just over a year, we’ve advanced operational efficiency, improved customer satisfaction, and launched a new business in Port Everglades. Being part of building something from the ground up has been incredibly rewarding.

Q: What sets Metro apart in the maritime industry?
A: It’s our people, flexibility, and strong values of integrity and trust. As a family-owned company for more than 100 years, Metro has built lasting relationships with unions and customers nationwide. We adapt quickly to changing regulations and customer needs, but our focus remains on true partnerships—not transactions. That long-term commitment is what keeps us steady and on course.

Q: What keeps you excited to come to work each day?
A: The people and the variety. No two days are the same, and the challenges keep me sharp. I enjoy visiting different cruise terminals, sharing best practices, and driving continuous improvement around safety and efficiency. Above all, I value making a positive impact on our customers while collaborating closely with our ILA/ILWU partners.

Q: How would you describe Metro’s culture to someone considering joining the team?
A: Collaborative, fast-paced, and grounded in integrity. Metro encourages growth through strong leadership, support, and trust. We work hard, stay adaptable, and value balance—and yes, we have fun along the way. It’s a culture built on people, progress, and positivity.

Q: What keeps you going during a busy day?
A: Coffee—strong and on repeat. Non-negotiable. My go-to snack is a granola bar (though there’s always temptation nearby). When I need to reset, I take a quick walk, stretch, and clear my head before diving back in.

Q: What values guide your work and life?
A: Integrity and respect. Doing the right thing, even when no one’s watching. Staying open-minded, listening, and earning trust every day. Looking out for others is central to how I lead and live.

Thank you, Robert, for bringing your global perspective, operational expertise, and steady leadership to Metro and the Nautilus group of companies. ⚓

10/04/2025

Meet Metro Events | Vivian Perez
Senior Manager, Event Services | Metro Events – San Francisco, CA

Vivian Perez found her calling in events during a college internship at a local TV station, where she helped organize community gatherings—one of which featured the cast of Malcolm in the Middle. That early experience sparked a passion for events and a deep appreciation for the joy they bring to people’s lives.

Today, Vivian leads sales for Metro Events’ landmark venues in San Francisco, including Pier 27, Pier 35, and the historic Rotunda Building. With deep roots in the Bay Area’s close-knit events industry, Vivian brings a mix of insight, strategy, and heartfelt hospitality to every client and every occasion.

Here’s more from Vivian:

Q: What first drew you to Metro Events?
A: I already knew many of the people here—San Francisco’s event industry is very tight-knit. I felt I’d fit in with the culture, and I was ready for a new challenge. I’ve managed venues before, but nothing as large or complex as what we handle at Metro Events. Pier 27 and Pier 35 are truly one-of-a-kind.

Q: How do you bring a client’s vision to life?
A: I ask a lot of questions. Understanding every detail is key—not only for success, but for safety, which is a major priority for us. Every event is different, and we tailor our approach each time.

Q: What makes your venues so special?
A: Each one has its own personality. Pier 27 offers sweeping views, indoor/outdoor flexibility, and a world-class location. Pier 35 is one of the city’s largest event spaces, just steps from major tourist spots. And the Rotunda Building—our newest addition—is elegant, historic, and absolutely breathtaking. We may be a small team, but we take pride in offering white-glove service. That’s why so many clients return year after year.

Q: Favorite event or theme you’ve hosted?
A: I always look forward to the Common Sense Media Summit at Pier 27. It’s an inspiring event that draws top thought leaders. This year, we heard from Hillary Clinton, YouTube CEO Neal Mohan, Pinterest CEO Bill Ready, and Sal Khan from Khan Academy. It feels like a privilege just to be in the room.

Q: What might people be surprised to learn about you?
A: I’m a serial joiner! I’m the Director of Education for the Northern California chapter of Meeting Professionals International and an active PTA mom—even though I’m an introvert at heart.

Q: What brings you joy outside of work?
A: Spending time with family and friends. And, like many San Franciscans, I love exploring new restaurants around the city.

Q: What’s next for San Francisco—and for Metro Events?
A: I’m incredibly excited for 2026, when San Francisco will host events around both the NFL Super Bowl and the FIFA World Cup. The City will be buzzing, and we’re already booking around the Super Bowl. It’s going to be a phenomenal year for events—and for our venues.

09/12/2025

😎 We’re closing out our summer series by celebrating our San Francisco team for their reliability, professionalism, and guest-focused service from ship to shore. 🌉

👫 With 38 cruise calls and over 100,000 passengers served, the team brought their hallmark organization and care to every operation. They also completed more than 7,000 transfers to and from the airport, helping guests connect with sailings to Alaska and Ensenada, Mexico with ease.

🚢 🚢 While the schedule remained steady, the team rose to the occasion during two rare double turnaround days, successfully operating out of Pier 80 in partnership with Carnival Cruise Line. We also had the pleasure of hosting Tatiana Perez, Senior Director of Guest Port Services at Carnival for an operational visit, affirming our partnership and commitment to collaboration.

👏 To our San Francisco crew: thank you for providing your special brand of excellence with dependability, teamwork, and delivering smooth, seamless service time and again.

09/05/2025

🌞 This summer, we made waves—and history—at the Port of Los Angeles! Our Los Angeles and San Pedro operations teams delivered exceptional service during our busiest summer in over five years, welcoming record-breaking traffic and unforgettable voyages.

🛳️ 89 ship calls
👫 321,000+ guests served
🚍 34,600 transfers completed

Every turnaround was seamless, every guest greeted with warmth and precision.

⭐ A major highlight: the arrival of Quantum of the Seas, the largest ship ever to berth at the Port of LA. Her presence marked a new chapter in our growth and capability.

🙌 Charter season brought the energy—from Shondaland at Sea aboard Ovation of the Seas, to the throwback vibes of Old School Music and BYU Charters on Navigator of the Seas.

🏝️ At the end of August, we happily welcomed back Princess Cruises first vessel for the Fall season, the Grand Princess, which will sail away to dream destinations like Hawaii, Mexico, and the Panama Canal.

🚧 Despite the dust, detours, and daily adjustments, our team has continued to deliver exceptional results throughout the ongoing construction upgrades at Pier 92 and office renovations.

👏 Huge thanks to our LA crew for their flexibility, consistency, and above-and-beyond service. You didn’t just rise to the occasion—you set a new standard.

08/29/2025

🌞 Metro Shore Services | Summer Wrap-Up Series: Seattle Edition 🌲

This summer, our Seattle team did more than just deliver excellence at every turn — they celebrated 10 years of outstanding operations at the Port of Seattle

With over 45 sailings, 152,416 guests, and 84,800 transfers completed by mid-season, the team continued to uphold the precision, professionalism, and warmth that define Metro Shore Services. Notably, for the first time in three years, Seattle saw multiple double ship days each week, and our team met the moment with smooth coordination and high spirits.

And while the numbers speak volumes, this summer also brought unforgettable moments on the pier — from Shondaland at Sea, featuring the creator of Grey’s Anatomy and Bridgerton, to the Bluegrass Society and a Sewing Club charter complete with banjos and sewing machines. No two cruise days are ever the same—and in Seattle, everyone is met with care and customer service.

🎉 A Decade of Dedication

From humble beginnings with a single cruise line, our Seattle operation has grown into a dynamic, multi-ship terminal recognized for service excellence and top-tier guest satisfaction. Our dedicated team—from greeters and pier agents to transportation staff—has built a culture of quality and reliability that keeps cruise days running smoothly year after year.

👏 Congratulations to our Metro Shore Seattle crew for 10 incredible years of delivering smooth turnarounds and unforgettable guest experiences. Here’s to the next decade of excellence!

08/23/2025

As part of our summer wrap-up series, we're turning the spotlight to our incredible Long Beach team - where we provide ground and stevedoring services for three Carnival vessels year round!

This summer 😎 (June & July) the team:

- Welcomed 342,000 guests 👨‍👨‍👧‍👦
- Completed 38,000+ transfers 🚍
- Completed 40 sailings 🛳️ of the Carnival Firenze, Panorama & Radiance

And that’s not all! We also partnered with Carnival Cruise Line and their Fun-ternship Program, giving high school students a 6-week paid, hands-on experience in cruise terminal operations. From greeting guests to handling check-in and traffic flow, these future leaders got a behind-the-scenes look and made waves 🌊 of impact!

👏 Hats off to our Long Beach crew for delivering precision, efficiency, and FUN 🎉 every single day.

08/15/2025

Metro Shore Services | Summer Wrap-Up Series: Galveston Edition

Summer may be winding down, but things are still heating up at the Port of Galveston! 🔥😎

As part of our summer wrap-up series spotlighting each of our ports, we’re kicking things off deep in the heart of Texas. In June and July alone, our incredible port agency team supported 30 ship calls and welcomed over 153,000 cruise guests through the terminals we proudly serve.

From the shores of Cozumel and Key West to the exciting debut of Carnival’s Celebration Key, our ships have been sailing to unforgettable destinations. And we even had a Texas legend aboard—Nolan Ryan joined us on the Regal Princess! ⚾

Now, as we cruise into August, we’re gearing up for Disney’s arrival this fall by recruiting fresh talent and preparing for a busy second half of the year. Smooth ops, smiling guests, and more magical moments ahead!

Stay tuned as we spotlight more ports in the coming weeks!

Metro Cruise Services

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