On Saturday, 23 May 2026, Österreichischer Lloyd hosted an exceptional Captain’s Gala at Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol welcoming distinguished guests, international partners, and very close circle of friends for an evening celebrating heritage, leadership, and people behind every success.
The gala marked three important milestones:
- 190 years since the founding of Österreichischer Lloyd,
- 75 years since the company’s re-establishment in Vienna,
- and the 75th birthday of Chairman, CEO & Partner, Capt. Eberhard Koch.
Inspired by the glamour of historic Adriatic cruising, the evening transformed the ballroom into an imaginary voyage from Trieste to Venice and back aboard the “MV Baron Bruck,” one of the historic vessels of Österreichischer Lloyd. Maritime-inspired staging, cinematic storytelling, live music, and elegant ceremonial elements recreated the atmosphere of Europe’s golden age of passenger travel.
Adding an authentic historical touch to the event, guests received, together with their invitations, first-class boarding tickets designed as replicas of original Österreichischer Lloyd passenger tickets for the round voyage Trieste – Venice route – another detail reflecting the company’s long-standing appreciation for tradition, personal relationships, and attention to detail.
The evening was hosted by Group Managing Director Julia Paczkowska, who assumed the role of Cruise Director and Master of Ceremony. Addressing guests in Italian, German, and English, she guided the audience through the symbolic Adriatic journey while honouring both the spirit of historic cruising and the Austrian roots of Österreichischer Lloyd.
Among the distinguished guests were: Shipping Deputy Minister – H.E. Marina Hadjimanoli; Dr. Theodoulos Mesimeris, Permanent Secretary of the Shipping Deputy Ministry, The President & Vice President of Cyprus Union of Shipowners – Mr. Polys V. Hajioannou, and Mr. George Mouskas.
The Minister, H. E. Marina Hadjimanoli reflected on the rich maritime legacy and enduring tradition of Österreichischer Lloyd, while also extending heartfelt personal wishes to Captain Koch on the occasion of his 75th birthday.
The host, Capt. Eberhard Koch, paid tribute to his employees, seafarers, management, and long-standing partners who have shaped the company across generations, including his long-term partner Mr. Hans Georg Wurmboeck, represented at the event by his brother Mr. Gustav Wurmboeck, whose genuine and heartfelt address also deeply moved the audience.
As a symbolic gesture of gratitude, all team members and partners were presented with Cyprus olive trees representing continuity, loyalty, strength, peace, and shared growth across generations.
Captain Koch emphasised that the true strength of the company has always been its people. “When I say ‘my company,’ what I truly mean is my team.”
The evening’s superb menu and entertainment programme further elevated the atmosphere of timeless maritime elegance. Guests enjoyed performances by a string quartet, ballroom dancers, a jazz band, and a vocalist performing classic songs by Frank Sinatra – a small a tribute to Captain Koch’s long-standing admiration for Sinatra’s music.
A specially curated anniversary film (soon available to watch online) offered guests an emotional journey through the history, renewal, and leadership of Österreichischer Lloyd, highlighting the company’s enduring maritime spirit and vision for the future.
The celebration concluded with a surprise birthday cake for Captain Koch, honouring a leader whose vision, dedication, and personal character have become inseparable from the modern story of Österreichischer Lloyd.
More than an anniversary event, the Captain’s Gala became a tribute to maritime tradition, enduring partnerships, and the people whose commitment continues to guide the company forward after 190 years.
VORWÄRTS – always steaming ahead.