World Cruise Awards – the global initiative to recognise and reward excellence in the cruise industry – has announced the highly-anticipated winners of its 2024 programme.

The finest cruise brands from around the world attended the red-carpet 4th annual World Cruise Awards Gala Ceremony, hosted in Funchal, the capital of Madeira.

On the same latitude as Morocco, Madeira enjoys a sub-tropical climate and unique eco-system, as well as a vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, making it the ideal cruise destination.

Brands to win top honours include Norwegian Cruise Line (‘World’s Best Cruise Line’), DP World Mina Rashid Dubai, (‘World’s Best Cruise Terminal’), Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas (‘World’s Best Large Cruise Ship’).

Destination winners included Saudi Arabia named ‘World’s Best Cruise Destination’. Austria also enjoyed a strong showing, winning ‘World’s Best River Cruise Destination’.

Chris Frost, Managing Director, World Cruise Awards, said: “What an incredible event it has been here in enchanting Madeira. World Cruise Awards had the privilege of recognising cruise brands that are stellar examples of excellence in their field. My congratulations to each of them.”

The results follow a year-long search for the world’s leading cruise brands. Votes were cast by cruise industry professionals and the public, with the nominee receiving the most votes in a category named as the winner.

Other winners include Hong Kong (‘Asia’s Best Cruise Destination’); Lisbon (‘Europe’s Best Cruise Destination’); Seychelles (‘Indian Ocean’s Best Cruise Destination’); Jamaica (‘Caribbean’s Best Cruise Destination’); Cape Town Cruise Terminal (‘Africa’s Best Cruise Terminal’); Norwegian Cruise Line (‘Europe’s Best Cruise Line’); and Silversea (‘Asia’s Best Cruise Line’).