The Wave Awards 2023 recognised the pinnacle of cruise industry excellence, gathering industry leaders in London.
- Riviera Travel achieved an exceptional feat by securing four top awards, including the esteemed Grand Prix award.
- P&O Cruises, Cunard, and Viking Cruises were among other winners celebrated for their outstanding performances.
- Bolsover Cruise Club was honoured as Favourite Cruise Travel Agent, highlighting its commitment to customer satisfaction.
- The event, hosted by Joel Dommett, showcased the industry’s best amidst a vibrant gathering at the Dorchester Hotel.
The Wave Awards 2023 brought the cruise industry together at the Dorchester Hotel in London, serving as a hallmark for recognising excellence within the sector. Celebrated as the ‘Oscars of the cruise industry’, the awards ceremony is critically acclaimed, with both travel industry professionals and the general public casting votes to determine the winners. Such wide-ranging participation ensures that the outcomes reflect both industry expertise and customer satisfaction.
Riviera Travel emerged as a standout at the ceremony, earning the prestigious Grand Prix award, along with accolades for Favourite River Cruise Line, Best for Solo Travellers, and Best Escorted and Specialist Tour Operator. This substantial recognition underscores their dedication to quality and customer service, as echoed by Vicky Billing, Riviera’s head of commercial partnerships, who expressed immense pride in their achievements and the unrelenting drive of their team to excel.
Other noteworthy winners included P&O Cruises, honoured as Favourite Ocean Cruise Line, and Cunard, which was awarded Favourite Luxury or Premium Cruise Line as well as the inaugural Best for Wellness and Enrichment award. These achievements demonstrate the growing emphasis on wellness and high-quality guest experiences within the industry. Angus Struthers, Cunard’s senior vice-president, highlighted this sentiment by acknowledging the significance of these accolades in reflecting guest appreciation and the brand’s enduring relevance.
Bolsover Cruise Club was celebrated as Favourite Cruise Travel Agent, a testament to its unwavering focus on customer service and satisfaction. Katie Wilson, the agency’s chief operating officer, attributed their success to the hard work and dedication of their team, emphasising the importance of customer-driven recognition. Meanwhile, Viking Cruises was acknowledged as the Favourite Specialist Cruise Line, saluting their specialised cruise offerings.
The event was not solely about accolades; it was a grand celebration of industry excellence. Hosted by comedian and TV personality Joel Dommett, the evening was a memorable occasion, featuring major industry players, stunning showcases, and a shared commitment to excellence within the cruise sector. Such events not only highlight individual achievements but also serve to enhance the overall standards and aspirations within the industry.
The Wave Awards 2023 exemplified the cruise industry’s dedication to excellence and innovation, marking another year of remarkable achievements.
