After nearly five decades of dedicated service, Haike Witzke, AIDA Cruises’ long-time head of human resources, has retired, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and impact. The Rostock-based shipping company marked the occasion with heartfelt tributes, as Witzke passed the torch to her successor, Christina Hankel, who has been with AIDA Cruises since July 2024.

Haike Witzke’s remarkable career spans almost 50 years, dating back to her time with the German company that eventually evolved into AIDA Cruises during the 1990s. Over the past three decades as head of human resources, she played a vital role in shaping the company’s workforce, hiring countless employees both on land and at sea who have contributed to AIDA's success.

The farewell gathering was an emotional with many of Witzke’s colleagues, including crew members from AIDA’s fleet, attending to honor her contributions. Felix Eichhorn, President & CEO of AIDA Cruises, and Steffi Heinicke, Senior Vice President of Guest Experience & Onboard Revenue, paid tribute to Witzke in heartfelt eulogies.

Witzke expressed gratitude for her years at AIDA and her ability to witness the company’s evolution firsthand. In turn, her successor, Christina Hankel, shared her appreciation for Witzke’s guidance during the leadership transition. Hankel, now Vice President of Human Resources Management, praised the team she inherits and the invaluable insights gained during the handover.

The farewell was highlighted by touching video messages from colleagues across the fleet, celebrating Witzke’s lasting impact on the AIDA community.