Paul Mundy, founder of specialist cruise agency of the same name, has died at aged 89.

A pioneer of the cruise industry, he started the firm as the first cruise-only agency in the UK with his wife Judith in 1970.

Mundy, who sold the business in 1999, believed passionately in the broad future of cruise holidays, despite the introduction of the Boeing 747 in the same year threatening to eclipse ocean-going trips.

Recognised as both a visionary and an innovator, Mundy’s view was that there was much more to cruising than mere travel.

Many of those who worked in the cruise industry have sent warm tributes to the man who led the sector for so long.

Fifty years on, Paul and Judith’s legacy is preserved at luxury cruise specialist Mundy Cruising, a company that remains proud of the vision of its founder.

Co-owner and managing director Edwina Lonsdale, who went to work for Paul Mundy in 1989, said: “What a mentor.  

“Paul knew the industry inside out, and his connections stretched across the world.  

“All the great and the good of the cruise industry crossed our threshold in those early days to visit this highly respected guru, a pioneer of the modern day cruise industry. 

“And for all the years since his retirement in 1999, Paul’s wise counsel has continued to be a valuable resource within our company.”

Paul is survived by his wife Judith. They were married for over 60 years. A celebration of his life will be held in due course.