Dozens of tributes have been paid online following the death of former Silversea senior vice-president Aris Zarpanely, who has died aged 78.
His son Petros Zarpanely, who has also worked at Silversea, announced his father’s passing on LinkedIn and Facebook in a post which said: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the death of Aris, a father, a grandfather, mentor and friend, who passed away today.
“Aris had suffered with prolonged medical issues in recent years and peacefully went to sleep, he has moved on to a better place.”
The post was written on behalf of Petros, also known as Petch, his sister Renee and their family.
Aris Zarpanely with his son Petros
Travel industry marketer Mark Lewsey, who worked with Zarpanely as director of marketing at Silversea from 1995 to 2000, paid a heartfelt tribute to him.
“He was my absolute mentor and a legend of a man…he was instrumental in changing the luxury cruise market in the UK, Europe and beyond and was a true stalwart of the industry,” said Lewsey.
“Such a kind and passionate person. I have so many memories of him from my time at Silversea.
“Aris also had an incredible kind heart – when he heard that I had severe car troubles and was struggling because of this with the family, he bought me a car.
“I will never forget that kindness – he didn’t want thanks, he just wanted to know I/we were ok.
“Another warm memory of Aris was his pure style – from speaking and changing effortlessly from English, to French, to Italian to Greek, but also how he called everyone ‘darling’ and his pure flair for all things luxury.
“At my son’s christening, Aris turned up with a lovely pressie for him in a green Tiffany bag. That was Aris.”
Ian Buckeridge, commercial director at The Cruise Line, sent condolences on Facebook, adding: “He was a great friend, mentor and inspiration.”
Ralph de Klijn, owner of iStrive, described Zarpanely as “an icon in the cruise industry” while Mike Bonner, brand and commercial services senior vice-president at Independenty Yours and Small Luxury Hotels of the World, said he had “so many memories” of working with him.
Helen Peters, travel and tourism consultant at Monkey Business, said on LinkedIn: “Such sad news. Aris was a true legend of the cruise industry, known and respected by all. I have so many memories of working both with him and for him stretching back to the early 90s.”
Aris Zarpanely