Cruise industry stalwart James Hill, owner of The Malvern Hills Company, passed away last week at the age of 76.
James, who specialised in river cruises, founded the company as a GoCruise & Travel franchisee in January 2006.
He described himself as a ‘niche cruise agent’ specialising in small, luxury, expedition and river cruise itineraries.
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland Managing Director Andy Harmer remembered James as a ‘titan of the river cruise community in the UK’ and ‘a true advocate and ambassador for the sector with an unmatched passion for sharing his knowledge with colleagues across the CLIA agent community’.
“As a reflection of his commitment to river cruise, he was recognised in 2018 with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Paris RiverView Conference,” Andy said.
“He will be greatly missed by the many people in travel who grew to know him over his long career, and we send our thoughts to his family at this difficult time.”
Fred. Olsen Travel Managing Director Julie Berry said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of James Hill, owner of Go River Cruise and a long-standing Fred. Olsen Travel licensee.
“James was a valued colleague, a trusted partner and, above all, a great friend to so many across Fred. Olsen Travel and the wider industry. His warmth, professionalism and passion for the industry left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with James’s family, friends and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.”
