The 1st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of C.M.C.L. – Cyprus Marine Club Limited –in Limassol, marking its shift to a company limited by guarantee and electing a new board for 2025–2026.

According to the statement, the meeting, which was held on May 23, opened with the confirmation of a quorum at 71.2 per cent.

The president, captain Eberhard Koch, presented the Chairperson’s report, in which he outlined the Club’s strategic direction and recent progress.

He referred to the transition from a non-profit organisation to a non-profit company limited by guarantee as a structural milestone and said it was a change for the better.

“There are truly no words to fully express how grateful I am that you placed your trust in us—and never doubted that the establishment of our new Club, as a non-profit company limited by guarantee, would be a step toward positive change,” he said.

“Now, 364 days later, I stand before you with full confidence that this transformation has indeed been a change for the better.”

Koch extended his appreciation to all members, sponsors, and board members, describing them as the core pillars of the organisation.

He noted that maintaining open communication among these three pillars is not only a priority but a necessity for the Club’s cohesion and strength.

It is also mentioned that the Club now consists of 155 members, including 96 corporate members and 59 individual members, collectively representing 372 cardholders.

Koch praised the contributions of the membership, noting that “some members contribute sparingly, others generously.

Some offer their support quietly, others with a strong and visible presence. Some are hands-on, while others bring forward plans and ideas.” Regardless of the form their support takes, he said, “each and every one of you, without exception, is contributing to making CMCL impactful and relevant in Cyprus shipping, one of the most resilient industries we know.”

He concluded his report by assuring members that no shortcuts are taken, as the Club prides itself on its reputation for quality, meaningful activity and genuine hospitality.

General manager Julia Paczkowska proceeded with the rest of the agenda, including the election of the board of directors.

She thanked all candidates for their willingness to serve, describing their interest as a clear indication of the Club’s vibrancy and engaged community.

“Receiving so many candidacies is a clear sign of how vibrant and engaged our Club’s community truly is,” she said.

The newly elected board of directors for 2025–2026 was announced during the Club’s dinner dance, held in the ballroom of the Amara Hotel, which brought together 150 members and guests.

The celebration featured a live performance by the band Time Surfers and continued late into the night, with members dancing “until they had no strength left”, according to the statement.

Koch was re-elected and appointed as president, receiving 81.6 per cent of the valid votes.

Julia Paczkowska was re-elected and appointed as general manager with 77.7 per cent.

Loucas Hamatsos, Elpida Kalathia, Jan Meyering, and Thrasos Tsangarides were all re-elected and appointed as vice presidents, while Barbara Loyal joined the board in the same capacity.

Athos Kleanthous was re-elected and appointed treasurer.

Miriam Berenz, Andreas Christophides, and Ester Toumpouris were newly elected and appointed as board members.

Andreas Chrysostomou, Michael Filippou, Sunil Kapoor, and Anna Vourgos were all re-elected and will continue serving on the board.