In October, the leading event in the cruise calendar will return refreshed and ready to celebrate the cruise industry once again.

On Friday 15 October, the Wave Awards will return. Organised by Real Response Media (RRM), publisher of Cruise Trade News, this event is the highlight of the year, bringing together cruise lines, travel agents, tourist boards and many more for an evening of pure celebration.

Be prepared for a memorable after-party sponsored by Royal Caribbean, featuring a retro games experience.

The venue is 8 Northumberland Avenue, London – the first time the Wave Awards has been held in this marvellous arena – and the festivities will kick off from 6:30pm.

As for health and safety, the event will follow all government regulations and guidance to ensure guests feel safe and comfortable.

Here’s what cruise experts had to say about the Wave Awards

Iain Powell - Head of Trade Sales, Saga
Saga Cruises’ Iain Powell

Iain Powell, head of trade sales, Saga Cruises
“Saga Cruises is thrilled to once again be headline sponsor of the prestigious Wave Awards and we very much look forward to celebrating the innovation and excellence which drives forward our industry. Saga Cruises has helped pave the way for our nation’s return to cruising and we are very proud that our two sister ships, Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure, are once again delighting guests with a luxury boutique cruising experience.”

Stuart Byron, sales director, UK, Ireland & Spain, Royal Caribbean International
“Royal Caribbean is delighted that the Wave Awards are making their return this year after a hiatus due to the pandemic. We are excited to celebrate the incredible efforts and ingenuity the cruise industry has shown over. It is fantastic that the whole industry can celebrate their achievements together in style. We are proud to support the awards this year by sponsoring the after party and wish every finalist the best of luck.”

Chris Hackney, UK & I cruise MD, Tui
“We’re looking forward to celebrating at the Wave Awards this October, after what has been the most challenging time for the cruise industry. We’re delighted that the awards are coming back. It gives us the opportunity to recognise, celebrate and reward some incredible talent across the sector.”

Lynn Narraway, UK & I MD, Seabourn
“The Wave Awards have always represented a fantastic celebration of everything cruise – and a recognition of the outstanding people who work in our UK travel and cruise industry. All of us at ultra-luxury Seabourn are looking forward to 15 October, when it will be so good to be back with our friends and industry colleagues for an evening that we are sure will feel extra special to us all this year, as we celebrate our return to service and the resumption of cruise.”

A-Rosa UK & Ireland MD Lucia Rowe
A-Rosa UK & Ireland MD Lucia Rowe.

Lucia Rowe, UK & I MD, A-Rosa River Cruises
“Everyone at A-Rosa River Cruises is so excited that the Wave Awards are coming back in October. We have all missed in-person events and this will be a great way for the cruise industry to come together and celebrate in style.”

Maria Payne, chief client officer, Accord Marketing
“As we proudly watch our industry sail through the end of the tunnel, we’re counting down the days to the highlight of the cruising calendar. The Wave Awards are always a night to remember but in 2021, after such stormy waters, something feels extra special.”


Geoff Ridgeon, head of sales, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
“The Wave Awards are a real highlight in the industry’s calendar. The past 18 or months or so have been extremely challenging for us all, so this will be the perfect opportunity for us to acknowledge and celebrate all that is great about cruise.”

If you would like to purchase a ticket to the Wave Awards, please visit our Rachel.Lonsdale@realresponsemedia.com.