Judging panel announced for Wave Awards 2026
The judges have been confirmed for the 12th annual Wave Awards, taking place at the Dorchester Hotel on 24 November
New additions include owner of Mundy Cruising, Edwina Lonsdale; international sales director for Atlas Ocean Voyages, Bernie Carter; associate vice president of sales and distribution for P&O Cruises, Ruth Venn; marketing director for World Travel Holdings, Sally White; managing director of World Travel Holdings, Lisa McAuley; and head of sales for Paramount Cruises, Patrick White.
They join an esteemed panel of experts which also includes senior sales director for Royal Caribbean International, Aaron Langford; managing director, global commercial for Windstar Cruises, Helen Beck; and associate vice president of EMEA sales for Cunard, Iain Baillie. You can view the full list of judges here.
CLICK HERE to enter the Wave Awards 2026, hosted by Cruise Trade News and World of Cruising
Get your submissions in soon as entries close on 25 May! If you enter four awards, your fourth entry is free, and receive an early bird discount if you complete payment by 30 April. Click here to get the inside scoop on how to write a winning entry.
This year’s sponsors include Celestyal, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, Hurtigruten, Marella Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Riviera Travel and Virgin Voyages.
More ways to win
There will be five new categories at the Wave Awards, giving lines and agents more opportunities than ever to celebrate the success of their teams and take home a gong.
Best Trade-Only Operator has been created to recognise an operator with a laser focus on helping its industry customers excel. Whether that’s by providing exceptional products, second-to-none training and advice or by always being on hand to answer a question, the winner will demonstrate they are an essential part of their clients’ success.
Best Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line is reserved for the lines whose product and service rival the most esteemed high-end hotels and tour operators. Not only are they experts when it comes to service and attention to detail, they’re specialists in exclusivity and personalised experiences, offering accommodation and dining that surpass traditional luxury standards.
Best for Touring and Adventure has been created after the rocketing popularity of the cruise-and-stay market as customers look for more immersive experiences onshore and at sea. This new award recognises touring and adventure companies who have bridged the gap between land and sea to give guests a holiday of a lifetime.
Best Ancillary Service recognises those partners who have supported the cruise industry in reaching its heady heights, none of which would have been possible without them. Whether the company transports customers to and from the port, delivers unforgettable shore excursions, provides essential insurance protection or offers another valuable add-on that enhances a cruise holiday, this award is for them.
Lastly, Best Tourist Board will celebrate the boards which are the beating hearts of the countries they represent. The judges are looking for entries to demonstrate what makes them the best tourist board, what they have implemented to ensure that, how they support visitors, and any new initiatives to attract more cruise tourism.
Follow Cruise Trade News on LinkedIn, X and Facebook for updates on date, venue and how your company can purchase a table on the night.
