7 February 2025
The UK’s leading travel agents were recognised last night (Februsry 6) at the UK Cruise Awards 2025, a prestigious event hosted by Carnival Cruise Line, Cunard, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises and Seabourn. Held at The Pelligon in Canary Wharf, the evening brought together over 200 industry guests to celebrate the achievements of the past year. BBC Radio 2 DJ Sara Cox hosted the event.
Each cruise line recognised two standout travel partners, presenting Partnership Achievement Awards for exceptional collaboration and Outstanding Contribution Awards for long-term dedication to their brands. Additional accolades were also awarded to travel partners and individuals who demonstrated excellence in specific areas.
Carnival UK & P&O Cruises president, Paul Ludlow said “The UK Cruise Awards underscore the vital role that our dedicated travel partners play in driving forward the cruise industry. It was simply inspiring to be surrounded by so many people who share a joint passion for delivering the very best cruise holidays.”
Paul Ludlow presented the Outstanding Contribution Award to Michael Wilson of Bolsover, recognising his long-standing reputation for excellent customer service and dedication to innovation.
Barrhead Travel took the Innovative Marketing Campaign Award for its social media strategy, presented by Cunard president, Katie McAlister. Trailfinders was recognised for its Outstanding Customer Care, presented by Holland America sales and marketing director Karen Farndell and UK and Europe vice president Princess Cruises, Eithne Williamson. Nick Watts of Cruise.co.uk received the Rising Star Award, presented by Carnival Cruise Line vice president of international sales, Iain Baillie and P&O Cruises vice president of sales, brand and marketing, Robert Scott.
The cruise lines’ individual winners were as follows:
Carnival Cruise Line:
Partnership Achievement Award: Viva Cruise
Outstanding Contribution: Cruise.co.uk
Cunard:
Partnership Achievement Award: WTH
Outstanding Contribution: Reader Offers Ltd
Holland America Line:
Partnership Achievement Award: Stewart Travel
Outstanding Contribution: Iglu Cruise
P&O Cruises:
Partnership Achievement Award: TUI
Outstanding Contribution: Hays Travel
Princess Cruises:
Partnership Achievement Award: Hays Travel
Outstanding Contribution: Iglu Cruise
Seabourn:
Partnership Achievement Award: The Cruise Line
Outstanding Contribution: Sovereign Cruise Club
