Michael Braathen

Michael Braathen is a skilled leader in the travel industry. His background—born in the UK to a Norwegian father and Portuguese mother—gave him a love of exploring. As a child, he lived in many countries, including Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Brazil, the United States, and South Africa. Family trips to different places helped him appreciate other cultures.

He started his career in cruises in 1997, joining the Shorex department and becoming manager within a year. He also became a certified PADI Scuba Instructor, which helped him work in the Caribbean. His work has taken him all over the world, fueling his passion for learning about other cultures and working with people from different countries.

After more than sixteen years at sea, Mr. Braathen moved to a land-based job to focus on his family. He now lives in Portugal and works as Director of Itinerary Planning, Port Operations, and Land Programs for Mystic Cruises. He manages operations for both Nicko Cruises—a popular German brand—and Atlas Ocean Voyages, which offers luxury expeditions. His job is to create custom itineraries and programs for each brand, combining operational skill with his lifelong passion for travel.