Boris Becker has been named captain of the AIDAperla, which is set to launch in Europe this summer.

The 36-year-old becomes one of the youngest cruise ship captains in the world with the announcement by AIDA. 

AIDAperla is coming off a successful set of seatrials that took place in Japan. The ship will be christened by model and moderator Lena Gercke on June 30, 2017 in Palma.

“It is a great honor and responsibility for a captain to accompany a ship on its first journey. I can barely wait – finally, it’s time to set sail! I look forward to joining my crew and taking AIDAperla to the Mediterranean Sea, where we can welcome aboard the first guests,” said Becker. 

Becker has a history of taking out new vessels, including the AIDAluna and AIDAblu; and has spent time aboard the AIDAprima, which is the sister ship to the AIDAperla. 

Born in North-West Germany, Becker relocated to the coast to study nautical science – to the city of Bremen to be exact. After completing his degree in industrial engineering for navigation, he was hired directly by AIDA. Since 2004, he has had a successful career with the cruise operator, beginning as an officer and later becoming staff captain. In 2010, at the age of 30, Boris Becker was named the youngest captain of AIDA Cruises at the time. Today, his home port is Bremen.