Travel companies were recognised by the over-50s market at the inaugural Silver Travel Awards.
Voted for by 6,500 consumers over 50 – all members of advice, review and information website Silver Travel Advisor – MSC Cruises scooped the award for best cruise line, while Thomson took the award for best tour operator.
Giles Hawke, MSC Cruises executive director, said: “This is a major accolade; we are surprised and delighted to win it.”
Warner Leisure Hotels was voted best hotel group and best limited mobility provider.
Tony Ineson, business development director of Warner Leisure Hotels, said: “These awards put us at the forefront of the over-50s market.”
Other award winners included British Airways for best airline, Shearings for best coach operator, Hertz for best car rental company and Great Rail Journeys for best rail holiday provider.
Winners said the awards endorsed the service and products they provided for mature travellers.
In total 13 companies were recognised at the awards, presented by former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond at the Natural History Museum.
In addition, a panel of travel industry judges awarded an Exceptional Achievement Award for contribution to the mature travel sector.
Paul Bennett, founder and managing director of Grand UK Holidays, won the award.
“This says a lot about the company and the people who have helped us get to where we are today, including the first person I took on who is still with the company. It is a collective effort and a great privilege to win,” said Bennett.