Tributes have been paid to “titan of the river cruise community” James Hill, who died last week aged 76

Hill was the owner of The Malvern Hills Company for more than two decades and worked as a franchisee under Fred Olsen Travel as a river cruise specialist with GoRiverCruise.

Andy Harmer, CLIA UK and Ireland managing director, hailed Hill’s passion for the river cruise sector, saying he will be “greatly missed” by all those in the travel industry.

“James was a titan of the river cruise community in the UK – a true advocate and ambassador for the sector with an unmatched passion for sharing his knowledge with colleagues across the CLIA agent community,” said Harmer.

“As a reflection of his commitment to river cruise, he was recognised in 2018 with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Paris RiverView Conference.

“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.”

Chris Townson, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises managing director UK, knew Hill for more than two decades, and said future conferences “won’t be the same without him”.

“It was a real shock to hear of James’ passing,” said Townson. “I’ve known him for over 20 years, he was a huge character and a legend in the river cruise industry.

“I will treasure my many fond memories of a true gentleman who knew everyone at the cruise lines and cared greatly for them all.

“James will be sorely missed and our visits to the CLIA RiverView conferences won’t be the same without him there.”

James Cole, founder and CEO of Panache Cruises, added: “It was so sad to hear about the passing of James Hill. A gentleman and a true legend of cruise, especially river cruising. RIP James.”