Lorraine Quinn, who has decided to stand down from Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, was honoured at a special lunch in London to mark the occasion. It fell to Mary McKenna to deliver this fine and fitting tribute on behalf of the trade:
“I have known Lorraine Quinn about 16 years now, first with City Jet and then the 14 years she has spent with Royal Caribbean International and its sister brands.
“What I have come to see over that 13 years is someone who is a true professional in every sense. She was the first to develop and grow the cruise industry in Ireland and was instrumental in the top position that Royal brands have in the Irish market.
“Lorraine is someone who oozes emotional intelligence, she has great empathy with people, along with great common sense, a firm hand when required, certainly no walk over. She was incredibly commercial, always innovating and creative and followed through with precise documentation that made you feel that you didn’t want to let her down.
“She has a great ability to connect with people, and is so well respected in the travel industry, media circles and, indeed, even known by the loyal customers.
“Her work ethic was 24/7, you never ever heard her moan about the trillion shows, presentations and commitment that were required with such a position.
“But I think what we all saw in Lorraine was great passion for what she did, you could see she loved her job, she was incredibly loyal, and I do feel somewhat sorry for anyone trying to fill her shoes.
“You leave behind a great legacy Lorraine, and you will never be forgotten by the many friends you have made in the Irish and Northern travel industry, and I think I speak on behalf of everyone when I say that you were authentic, funny, had great integrity and were someone we all just loved doing business with.
“On behalf of all of us, a huge ‘Thank You’ for everything you have done and how successful you have made us as partners to the Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Azamara brands.
“You will be greatly missed.”
