Cruise travel agents have been acknowledged for their innovation and expertise at the Clia UK and Ireland Cruise Excellence Awards.
The event also honoured Andrew Gardner of cruise.co.uk and Lynn Narraway from Seabourn and Holland America Line with the Outstanding Contribution to the UK Cruise Industry award.
Gardner was honoured for being at the forefront of cruise retailing and brining change and innovation to the sector. Narraway was declared a “true advocate of the industry” who has been actively involved in Clia, as well as leading her two brands and promoting the industry.
The Cruise Homeworker of the Year award went to Clare Cruise of Sixstarcruises.co.uk. Cruise was championed for bringing change to her team to ensure growth of the business.
Online Cruise Agency of the Year was presented to Iglu for the second year running. Clia noted that Iglu utilises all aspects of ecommerce while ensuring staff are continually trained and updated on the industry.
High Street Cruise Agency of the Year went to Tui which has seen the share of cruise sales grow as a percentage of its overall sales.
The Innovation in Cruise Award was presented to Barrhead Travel. The company saw a significant increase in cruise sales following the implementation of a dedicated summer flight programme for cruise holidays from various Scottish airports.
Clia Travel Agent of the Year was awarded to Dwayne McFarlane from Thomson Superstore in Bolton. McFarlane was recognised for investing in his team with recruitment and training with a focus on switch-selling from land based to cruise holidays.
Young travel agent of the year went to Daniel Radnor, owner of LoveItBookIt.com. At 20-years-old, Daniel has created a new company with a particular focus on new-to-cruise customers.
Clia UK and Ireland director Andy Harmer said: “I’m delighted we have been able to recognise some truly outstanding people who have gone over and above expectations in promoting and selling cruise holidays.”