The cruise industry is mourning the loss of Captain Geir-Arne Thue-Nilsen, a widely admired and deeply respected figure whose warmth, wisdom, and passion for the sea left an indelible mark on Seabourn and all who sailed with him.

The sad news was shared by his wife, Juvy Thue-Nilsen, who described him as “a beloved husband, father, and captain.”
Captain Geir-Arne, known to many as “Captain GA,” was more than a commanding officer, he was a mentor, a friend, and above all a deeply compassionate human being. He sailed across the world with a spirit that inspired both his crew and guests.

“He had a kind and gentle heart, a deep love for the sea and animals, and a passion for racing,” wrote his wife. “He had a warm sense of humour, and as a captain, he was both knowledgeable and deeply committed—always looking after his crew with their wellbeing in mind.”

Tributes have poured in from across the industry. Eric Goldring, a close friend, called him “a captain’s captain” and “the kindest of human beings,” adding, “He taught me how it should be on a ship, not by lecture, but by example.”

Azamara Cruise Director Eric De Gray shared the news with heartfelt admiration: “One of the very finest Captains I had the pleasure of working with… and a true friend. The finest and the fittest. Such a gentle heart and a smile that stretched across the seven seas.”

Former colleagues described a leader who balanced authority with joy. “Always in port with his bicycle,” said one tribute, “he brought incredibly positive energy that set a tone for his crew to work hard and yet be at ease.”

Sarah Koerffer Seward remembered him as a “truly fun spirit,” while Simon Davey shared memories of Geir-Arne’s wonder for the world: “I will always remember his excitement over ‘The Green Flash’ at sunset, and telling everyone to ‘cross your fingers and your toeres’ in order to see it.”

Francesca Emmott-Mangnall recalled how he honored her with a bridge ceremony after she helped a guest choking in the dining room—an example of his attentiveness to even the smallest acts of service. “He always recognised his crew from top to bottom,” she wrote. “Always a good craic.”

Perhaps the most personal tribute came from Cornelia Sengutta, who reflected on his legacy as a father figure and quiet pillar of strength:
“You were more than a leader — you were a guiding light... You believed in us. You led with patience, strength, and quiet wisdom… You always made time. You listened, truly listened, and offered your presence as a safe harbor.”

Captain Geir-Arne Thue-Nilsen’s passing leaves a deep void in the maritime world. But his legacy lives on in the thousands of lives he touched, from bridge officers to stewards, from cruise executives to first-time passengers. He was a man who made the vastness of the ocean feel like home.