Sail 4 Cancer appoints James Cole as patron
JAMES Cole, the founder and CEO of luxury cruise specialist Panache Cruises, has been appointed patron of the marine charity Sail 4 Cancer.
Founded in 2001, Sail 4 Cancer provides days out and holidays for families affected by cancer, all of which have a nautical focus. From sailing days to longer holidays on canal boats and cruise ships, Sail 4 Cancer gives families something to look forward to during the darkest of times.
Commenting on the announcement, James said: “Sail 4 Cancer is a charity that has been close to my heart for well over a decade. I have seen first-hand the impact that Sail 4 Cancer makes, having nominated several families in need for holidays with them. This is an incredible charity which makes a massive difference to the lives of many.”
He added: “I am delighted to become a patron of this amazing organisation. With patrons that have included the former Admiral of the Fleet, Lord Michael Boyce plus competitive sailors such as Sir Ben Ainslie CBE, Dee Caffari MBE and Nick Moloney, I have some big sea boots to fill! However, I am eager to get involved with a brief to get more people affected with cancer out on the water.”
With a cruise industry career that extends over 25 years, James Cole has founded and developed some of Europe’s leading cruise brands. Launched at the start of the Covid19 pandemic in 2020, Panache Cruises is James’ latest venture.
Andrew Hayward, founder of Sail 4 Cancer and the wider 4 Cancer Group, concluded: “Since 2001, Sail 4 Cancer and the wider 4 Cancer Group has sent more than 7000 people affected by cancer away on a range of respite breaks. We have delivered more than 93 years’ worth of holidays during that period. With a target to reach 100 years of respite by the end of next year, if anyone is reading this story who thinks they can help with fundraising or by donating a holiday (water-based or otherwise), we would love to hear from them.”