Have you had a standout year and want to celebrate with your team? In the latest episode of the Cruise Corner Podcast, we share a few handy tips and tricks to help you nail your Wave Awards 2026 entry

With just over a month to go until the deadline for this year’s submissions, co-host Will Payne and Real Response Media COO Lee Hayhurst reveal exactly what judges are looking for when reviewing entries, and how you can make yours stand out.

Taking place on 24 November at The Dorchester on London’s Park Lane, the biggest night in the cruise industry calendar returns with a host of new categories.

This year’s sponsors include Celestyal, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, Hurtigruten, Marella Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Riviera Travel and Virgin Voyages.

Agents, cruise lines and suppliers can submit their entries here

This year, 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.