The Wave Awards 2024 celebrated excellence in the cruise industry at The Dorchester, London.
- Royal Caribbean dominated the night, securing the Grand Prix Award and three additional categories.
- Special awards for innovation were presented to Alison Earnshaw and Angus Drummond.
- Marella Cruises and AE Expeditions were recognised for entertainment and sustainability initiatives, respectively.
- The event was marked by impressive performances and a celebratory atmosphere.
The Wave Awards 2024, a prestigious event in the cruise industry, took place at The Dorchester, London. This event, which has been fondly termed the ‘Oscars of Cruising,’ celebrated its 10-year anniversary in grand style, bringing together significant figures from across the sector. Sue Perkins, a well-known British TV broadcaster, hosted the evening, delighting the audience with her engaging presence.
Royal Caribbean emerged as the most celebrated entity of the evening, bagging the esteemed Grand Prix Award. Additionally, it triumphed in categories such as Best for Accommodation Design, Best Family Cruise Line, and Best for Accessibility, showcasing its versatile excellence across several crucial aspects of cruising.
Two new special accolades were also introduced this year, recognising individual contributors who have substantially influenced the cruise industry beyond traditional metrics. The Peter Grant Award was claimed by Alison Earnshaw of World Travel Holdings, while the DEI (Diversity Equality Inclusion) Award was awarded to Angus Drummond, founder of Limitless Travel, acknowledging their pioneering efforts in innovation and inclusion.
Other notable winners included Marella Cruises, which was distinguished as the Best for Entertainment, providing an exceptional experience for passengers on board. AE Expeditions shone brightly, clinching the Best Sustainability Initiative, highlighting its commitment to environmentally friendly practices at a time when sustainability in travel is more important than ever.
The ceremony was enlivened by stunning performances. An elaborate welcome show, sponsored by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, featured dancers from Pop-Up Global and was soundtracked by popular hits from Lady Gaga, Beyonce, and Whitney Houston. Notably, these nine performers were selected from a live casting just days before the event, which involved over 2,000 hopefuls. Musical highlights also included acclaimed performances by violinist and vocalist Lizzie Ball and musical theatre star Tosh Wanogho-Maud, ensuring the night was as entertaining as it was prestigious.
The event did not conclude without recognising the preferences of cruise enthusiasts worldwide. Norway was voted as the Favourite Cruise Destination by readers, while Jenni Fielding, also known as Cruise Mummy, was voted the Favourite Cruise Travel Influencer for the third consecutive year. Hays Travel received the accolade for Favourite Cruise Travel Agent, confirming its status as a leader in the travel agency sphere.
Throughout the evening, attendees were treated to a three-course dinner, with culinary delights including wild mushroom and truffle tortellini, and Aberdeen Angus beef. The night concluded with a lively after-party, allowing guests to continue the celebration of outstanding achievements in the cruise industry.
The Wave Awards 2024 successfully honoured the outstanding achievements within the cruise industry, culminating in a memorable night.
