Royal Caribbean, Cunard and Explora Journeys were among the big winners last night as the great and the good of the cruise industry were honoured at the Wave Awards.
Described as the Oscars for the sector, the annual event – yesterday marking its tenth anniversary – honours cruise brands and their ships as well as travel agents who help promote and sell sailings.
The event, organised by Real Response Media, publisher of trade titles World of Cruising and Cruise Trade News, was held at The Dorchester in London and The Independent was a media sponsor.
Judges from across the cruise industry analysed entries and compiled a shortlist for 41 awards that were voted on by the public in recent months.
Comedian and broadcaster Sue Perkins handed out the gongs, with entertainment provided by Cunard that included violinist Lizzie Ball and singer WestTosh Wanogho -Maud.
Royal Caribbean swept the board when it came to accolades, winning the coveted Grand Prix award after picking up trophies for Best Accommodation, Best Family Cruise Line and Best for Accessibility.
Explora Journeys did the double, collecting awards for Best for Wellbeing and the Best Luxury Ocean Cruise Line, while its sister brand MSC Cruises was named the Favourite Ocean Cruise Line.
Viking won the Favourite River Cruise Line award and Unforgettable Croatia got the gong for Best Specialist Cruise Line.
Cunard was named Best for Enrichment and the Best New Ship Launch for Queen Anne, which had its maiden voyage in June.
Tom Mahoney, director of UK sales at Cunard, said: “We are incredibly proud to have won Best New Ship Launch and Best for Enrichment at this year’s Wave Awards. It’s a real testament to the dedication and collaborative efforts of both our on board teams and colleagues at Cunard.
“The launch of Queen Anne in May, our newest ship in 14 years, was a moment that will go down in maritime history and it’s very humbling for this milestone to be recognised by our peers in the cruise industry.”
Marella Cruises was named Best for Entertainment and Havila Voyages the Best for Cuisine.
Riviera Travel received a trio of awards including Best River Cruise Line, as well as best for excursions and solo travellers.
Adults-only brand Virgin Voyages received the award for the Best Value-for-Money Cruise line, while Windstar was named the Best…
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