by Lucy Huxley and Josie Klein
Cruise118 has paid tribute to sales concierge Greg Hill, who died at the age of 37 last weekend.
Managing director of parent company World Travel Holdings UK, Alison Earnshaw, confirmed Hill had been in hospital with a serious condition for a number of weeks, but his death had still come as a shock as they had been expecting him to make a full recovery.
She said the company was supporting its colleagues through such a difficult time.
“Greg was a big personality in the business and in the office and will be hugely missed by everyone. A lot of our employees would have called him a friend as well as a colleague,” said Earnshaw, adding that the team had already come up with a number of ways to honour Greg’s memory.
She said a newsletter had already been sent out this week featuring stories about Hill from his colleagues, which had “raised a laugh as well as a tear”.
Earnshaw also explained that Hill had been the first – and only – recipient of a new Quarterly Captains award, launched earlier this year, and so a decision had been made to rename the award in his honour.
Hill first joined Cruise118 in 2017 but left during the pandemic to work in a children’s home, before rejoining the cruise specialist agency in December 2022.
In 2020, he was a Carnival Cruise Line Fun Ambassador, and took part in several activities with the line before the pandemic hit.
Gemma Ashworth, senior account manager at Carnival Cruise Line, said Hill “embodied the spirit of fun and adventure” the brand represents, adding: “His vibrant personality and infectious energy were always accompanied by his warmth and genuine care for others.”
She added: “Greg was an exceptional asset to the cruise industry, known for his remarkable ability to connect with customers and his passion for cruising. His dedication ensured that customers rarely ended a call without booking a cruise, a testament to his outstanding skills and enthusiasm.
“On a personal note, I had the privilege of knowing Greg beyond our professional relationship. He was one of the most caring and considerate individuals I have ever met. Throughout the challenging times of the pandemic, Greg consistently checked in with me to ensure my wellbeing.
“Greg’s absence will be deeply felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His kindness, passion, and commitment to making others feel valued and supported are qualities that will forever be remembered.”
Tributes also poured in on Facebook.
Amber Eastwood, retail store manager at Hays Travel, wrote: “[Greg] was taken too soon. I’ll miss you brightening our mornings on the team brief and you taking the p*** out of me. Our friendship had just begun, but you’ll be a soul that I treasure forever. Shine bright up there, as bright as you did with us.”
Cruise118 concierge Barry Jenkinson wrote: “I only got to know you in such a very short time, but you were such a fun and kind person to be around. RIP Greg, taken far too soon. You’ll be missed by all your friends and colleagues.”
Fellow Cruise118 concierge Sian Halliwell added: “Life really is too short. Will miss your help, your laugh, your swearing and the all round adrenaline shot you were to us all. Live every second like it’s your last. Love ya pal.”