Iglu Cruise’s Kyle Turner on how his triumph at the 2024 Cruise Stars awards inspired him to take on new challenges and why events such as this are vital to the travel agent community

How did it feel to take home the Rising Star of the Year – Travel Agent award at last year’s Cruise Stars?

Honestly? It felt like a punch of pride straight to the chest – but in the best way. You come into a new industry, full of ambition, full of questions and full of uncertainty. To not just find your feet, but be recognised at that level so quickly, it was humbling.

I know what it’s like to walk into a room full of seasoned professionals and feel like the rookie, so to hear your name called, it was surreal. This kind of recognition proves that if you’re willing to put the work in, it will get noticed. Not immediately, not always loudly – but eventually. And that means something.

How important are events like these to the industry?

Massively important. Look, sales agents are the engine room of this entire industry. We’re the ones on the phones, grafting, guiding customers through the noise and helping them make one of the most exciting purchases of their year.

Without us, the ships don’t sail full. That’s just the truth. So, when there’s an event that says, “we see you, we appreciate what you’re doing”, that matters. It’s not just a pat on the back; it’s a validation of your contribution. When I stood there being recognised, I wasn’t thinking about my own numbers or my name on a trophy. I was thinking about all of the other travel agents back at Iglu Cruise working hard, hitting their targets, staying late, doing callbacks and going above and beyond.

Enter the 2025 Cruise Stars awards

What was the reaction like in the office when they heard of your triumph?

There was a bit of banter at first – “him? Are you sure?” – but it was all in good humour. The reaction from the team was pure class. They were supportive from the nomination all the way to the win. People were genuinely buzzing for me, and that’s a credit to the culture Iglu has built.

What do you hope to achieve in the next few months?

My mindset has always been to keep climbing. From day one at Iglu, my aim wasn’t just to be a good seller – it was to grow into someone who adds value across the board. I’ve run businesses before, worked in sales environments, and I knew I had even more to offer.

When the opportunity came up to move into the training and coaching side, I took it. No hesitation. Now I’m part of the team that shapes the next generation of agents and that’s a responsibility I take seriously. My goal now is crystal clear: help people unlock their potential — even the parts they don’t yet see in themselves.

Cruise Stars is free to enter and recognises success and innovation and shines a spotlight on the brightest and best talent in the cruise industry. All shortlisted nominees will receive a complimentary invitation to attend the award ceremony which includes a two-course lunch. Click here to enter yourself or a colleague today.