The 2023 Cruise Stars Awards recognised outstanding individuals within the cruise industry.
- Leon Hand was ecstatic after winning Trainer Star of the Year for his dedication.
- Daniel Hammond highlighted the importance of recognitions for agents, winning Above and Beyond Star.
- Roxy Ilbury expressed gratitude for her team’s success, winning Cruise Line PR & Marketing Star.
- James Scott and Danielle Falcus shared their excitement and plans for the coming years.
The 2023 Cruise Stars Awards celebrated the exemplary contributions made by individuals within the cruise industry, recognising those who have gone above and beyond in their roles. Leon Hand, training manager for EMEA, expressed sheer joy on receiving the Trainer Star of the Year award, appreciating the recognition for the hard work that often goes unnoticed in the sector. He remarked, “These events are very important because everyone works so hard, and we do a lot for the trade. We do a lot for the business, a lot for the industry, and it’s not just about recognition, it’s about celebration of success and it just motivates you more.”
Daniel Hammond, a specialist with GoCruise & Travel, received the Above and Beyond Star award, acknowledging the hectic year he and his team had faced. He underscored the significance of such awards for agents, stating, “These awards are massive for the industry. Agents are unsung – they don’t get a lot of recognition, the cruise lines get more at times, which they should, but agents, we don’t really, we are the little people at times so events like these make us big and more known to the industry.” Although he anticipates challenges in the coming year, Daniel remains optimistic about the opportunities in the cruise sector.
Roxy Ilbury, the channels marketing manager at Riviera Travel, spoke of her surprise and delight at winning the Cruise Line PR & Marketing Star. She emphasised the collective effort of her team in achieving this victory, highlighting that the recognition reflects the dedication and community spirit at Riviera. She said, “[Cruise Stars] is such an important part of the year, we are a community at Riviera so it’s not just me winning this award it’s the whole team.”
James Scott, who joined Cunard a year ago, was awarded the Cruise Line Sales Star. His pride in this achievement was palpable as he mentioned the team’s hard work and their big plans for 2024, including the anticipated arrival of the new ship, Queen Anne. Scott stated, “To be recognised for all of the hard work the industry puts in, not only from a supplier side but also from an agent side, is great. For us, 2024 is going to be a huge year.”
Finally, Danielle Falcus, recognised as the Rising Star of the Year (Travel Agent), conveyed her disbelief and gratitude upon receiving the award. Falcus credited her team’s support and client relationships for her success, remarking, “Everything I do is about my team and who I work with and the customers I book for, so it’s amazing to get this award on behalf of them.” Looking ahead, she acknowledged the economic challenges post-Covid but remained hopeful about the growth potential of the cruise industry.
The Cruise Stars 2023 Awards highlighted the dedication and innovation within the cruise industry, inspiring future achievements.
