It is with overwhelming sadness that Cruise Planners announces the passing of COO Vicky Garcia on August 14, 2022 after a long illness.
Garcia was remembered as an exuberant supporter of the travel industry, with deep connections to the people within it.
“As I reflect on our 18-year partnership, I feel blessed to have had such a sincere, warm and fun BFF by my side,” Michelle Fee, Founder and CEO of Cruise Planners said. “She knew early on that the secret to CP success was in the human touch, our agents and Home Office Team, many of whom were part of her extended family. She truly felt that way.”
From her start as a cruise line reservations agent to leadership positions at Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Lines and Cruise Planners, Vicky’s career in travel spanned more than 30 years. Her leadership as well as her role as an advocate and volunteer for many causes including The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society have secured her the recognition of being one of South Florida’s Top 25 Influential Business Women, The Boys & Girls Clubs 100 Outstanding Women of Broward County, and the godmother of Viking Cruises’ Viking Magni. Vicky proudly served on the board for Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line, American Express Travel, Special Needs Group, DEPARTURES Magazine Advisory Board, Regent Seven Seas Council and The Travel Corporation.
Vicky’s ambition, accomplishments and advocacy helped grow Cruise Planners into the company it is today, and she leaves behind a lasting legacy of fierce drive and philanthropic spirit. Vicky is survived by her wife, Carol, brother, John and her beloved niece Chelsea and nephew Jake.