Ambassador Cruise Line has paid tribute to Head of Destination Management Michelle Lupino, who died on Wednesday after a short illness.

Michelle had worked for Ambassador since its launch last year, having worked for its predecessor CMV for almost 11 years. She had also worked for Carnival as a Shore Excursion Executive for more than 15 years.

Ambassador CEO Christian Verhounig said in a statement: “In these moments, the overriding feeling is one of utter shock, disbelief and sadness, but I hope in time the sadness will make way to gratitude – gratitude for what a fantastic, vibrant character and valued colleague, business partner and friend Michelle has been to us all.

“Michelle was not only an essential member of the team that launched Ambassador Cruise Line but also a long-term friend of myself and many of her colleagues. Her extreme dedication, attention to detail and creativity have played a big part in us being where we are today, and she will be greatly missed by all at Ambassador and her many friends in the industry.”

He went on to say that Ambassador was offering ‘every support’ to Michelle’s family and friends.

“We understand how distressing the news of Michelle’s passing is to the Ambassador team, for whom she was a respected and much-loved colleague. We are committed to offering them our full and unconditional support in the days and weeks to come,” added Christian.

The cruise line said Michelle had made it known that she did not wish for flowers to be sent to mark her passing.  Accordingly, her family have set up a Just Giving page in her memory, with all donations going to the RSPCA.

 https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rememberingmichellelupino.