Cruise Vacations, a leading boutique travel agency based in Johannesburg, has achieved a historic double win at the prestigious World Cruise Awards. For the third consecutive year, the company was named Africa’s Best Cruise Travel Agency, and in an extraordinary milestone, it also earned the title of World’s Best Cruise Travel Agency for 2024. This marks the first time a South African agency has been honoured with the global accolade.
The awards were presented at a glittering ceremony held at the Savoy Palace Hotel in Funchal, Madeira, on Sunday, 24 November 2024. The Cruise Vacations management team was on hand to accept the honours, sharing the spotlight with the world’s leading names in the cruise industry.
The World Cruise Awards, a sister programme to the prestigious World Travel Awards, celebrates excellence in cruise travel. Recognised globally, these awards are decided through votes cast by industry professionals and consumers, making them a true reflection of trust, innovation, and outstanding service.
Cruise Vacations, specialises in luxury and niche cruises, offering bespoke travel experiences to destinations across the globe. Over the years, the agency has established itself as a trusted partner for discerning African travellers, consistently delivering personalised service with a “big company thinking” ethos. Their philosophy blends global expertise with a boutique touch, creating seamless, memorable journeys.
“Winning Africa’s Best Cruise Travel Agency for the third year in a row is a tremendous honour, and being recognised as the World’s Best Cruise Travel Agency is an achievement beyond words,” said Gaynor Galbraith Neill, Owner and CEO of Cruise Vacations. “This is a proud moment for South Africa and for our dedicated team, who consistently strive to exceed expectations and showcase Africa’s outbound potential as a meaningful cruise market.”
The accolades come as Cruise Vacations celebrates a remarkable comeback after the challenges of the pandemic. The agency has not only rebuilt its business but also forged strong partnerships with local travel agencies to boost cruise travel from the African continent. Their commitment to collaboration has been instrumental in expanding the reach of cruising among African travellers.
A member of the Association of South African Travel Agents (ASATA), Cruise Vacations upholds the highest industry standards. In addition to their remarkable achievements this year, the company is preparing for another milestone: celebrating 30 years as the exclusive African representative of Silversea Cruises in 2025.
Cruise Vacations also proudly represents an array of other leading cruise lines, including Scenic Cruises, Emerald Cruises, Scenic Yachts, Emerald Yachts, and Star Clippers. Through their sister company, Exclusive Adventures, the agency specialises in expeditions and adventures to remote and awe-inspiring destinations.
“These awards reflect not only our passion for cruising but also the trust our clients place in us to deliver exceptional travel experiences,” added Gaynor. “We look forward to continuing our mission of making cruising a key part of African travel.”
For more information visit https://www.cruise-vacations.co.za
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*Please note that Cruise Vacations is the officially appointed representatives in Southern Africa for a range of award-winning ocean and river cruise lines
