Shipping is taking to social media to mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
The UK’s longest-reigning monarch died peacefully on Thursday at the age of 96 at Balmoral in Scotland, according to an announcement by the royal family.
Bud Darr, the Geneva-based head of maritime policy, government affairs and shipping at container and cruise shipping giant MSC Group, posted to LinkedIn to express condolences to friends and colleagues in the UK and throughout the Commonwealth of countries where the Queen was head of state.
“She served for an amazing reign of 70 years, and was an absolute model of dedication to both country and to public service,” he wrote. “A sad day for sure, but also an opportunity to reflect on how she lived her life and served the public.”
British groups that serve seafarers were quick to honour the Queen, pointing to her support for those who work at sea.
The Mission to Seafarers posted a photo of its flag at half-mast in honour of her 70 years of “exemplary service” to the nation.
“Not sure how else we can express our sadness at the passing of [Her Majesty] Queen Elizabeth 2, RIP [rest in peace],” the group said on Twitter. “Ma’am your duty is done.”
The Sailors’ Society, of which the Queen was a patron, said it is thankful for her care for seafarers around the globe.
Gina Panayiotou, environmental, social and governance manager at insurer West of England P&I Club, praised the Queen as a “remarkable” woman leader.
“Fearlessly deploying her power and platform, she has always been at the driving wheel, moving her life forward on her own terms, disregarding outdated notions,” Panayiotou wrote on LinkedIn.
“In the myriad of things that make her inspirational, Queen Elizabeth II also kept her own family name as she stepped up to the throne — despite her husband’s objections at the time.”
The UK & Ireland branch of the Cruise Lines International Association said it is deeply saddened by the Queen’s death.
“She was a wonderful ambassador for cruise,” the group said on LinkedIn.
Konstantina Eleni Athanasiou, founder of London-based manager Prime Shipping, took to Facebook to mourn the Queen’s death.
“We have lost our Queen, a majestic and at the same time, I dare say, motherly figure to all of us,” she said. “She inspired and encouraged me by her actions and example, even when I felt most deserted and doubtful of myself.”