We were very proud and humbled to be asked to present the award for inclusion as voted for by the judging panel we sat on, then by consumers online and via the Metro newspaper in the UK. The event was held in the Underglobe in London, which is hidden away under Shakespeare’s Globe, and what a show it was!
Unlike typical awards, Sailawaze aims to shine a spotlight on industry innovations, game-changing initiatives, and fresh concepts by recognising 4 winners rather than just one cruise line. This is because everyone's preferences vary, and cruise lines cater to different markets. For instance, how can you compare a fast food nominee to a gourmet offering?
All the major cruise lines from UK market were invited to attend for award categories such as Wellness, Entertainment, Technology, Collaborations and our Category Inclusion. Ensuring inclusivity on board is a top priority for us as LGBTQ travelers; it's essential to create a welcoming environment where everyone can feel comfortable being themselves and included. After all, everyone deserves a well-deserved break from their everyday lives!
It's essential to highlight that when we refer to inclusion, it's not limited to the LGBTQ+ community; it also includes any minority group on board, such as those of diverse ethnicities, cultures, ages, or individuals with accessibility needs.
So, who was shortlisted?
VIVA offers specific LGBTQ+ friendly cruises for people that identify with any of the letters in the acronym or are allies to the Queer community. The first cruise made a port stop in Amsterdam, where you could visit the largest archive of LGBTQ+ History. VIVA Cruises is also a proud member of the LGBTQ+ Travel Association.
Celebrity is known for welcoming all groups onboard, particularly on an open-source photo campaign, that set to change the face of travel advertising by featuring minority groups, such as the black community, larger bodied, LGBTQ+ couples, and those with a disability or accessibility needs. For the LGBTQ+ individuals onboard they host meet ups, pride celebrations onboard for the whole month of June, guest entertainers onboard and the raising of the LGBTQ+ flag that proudly flies at the front of the ship; no matter the destination! For more info check out our blog ‘Journey WonderFULL’.
Disney is known for their little touches and details that bring the magic of Disney to life. Disney makes everyone feel welcomed and including everyone in the magic. So, When designing their Disney Wish and Treasure ships they have ‘Communication Staterooms’ which are specially designed for customers with hearing disabilities – which we believe is A first of its kind in the industry. Features inside the room include a vibrating bed shaker under mattress that shakes when the doorbell rings. They’ve installed an indication panel that lights up and indicates if the doorbell rings, telephone calls, or if the general or fire alarm is activated.
A-Rosa have designed their ships with multi-generational groups in mind. Their newer ship Arosa Sena (Check out our ship info page) has dedicated rooms for families, including bunk beds and a playful interior, they have a dedicated kids club and splash pool onboard as well as offering swimming lessons.
Saga Cruises are a cruise line targeted at an older audience, enabling our older generation to still explore the world in comfort and with assistance if required; so, you can sit back relax and know you’ll be taken care of! Saga offer a Chauffeur service as standard on all cruises, accommodating various mobility issues from door to dock. Entertainment venues onboard are fitted with a hearing loop system, so everyone can join in and hoists are available in all pools for ease of access.
This one is close to our hearts as our nephew is autistic. Royal Caribbean offer an Autism Friendly Program. The Adventure Ocean Staff are trained on a variety of autism-friendly activities, plus they have autism friendly dietary options available. For guests with other accessibility needs they offer shore excursions led local operators experienced in creating experiences for travellers using scooters, wheelchairs or walkers. Last by not least, accessible staterooms for a range of needs are available on all cruise ships.
The Virgin group of brands is known for daring to be different and including everyone, Virgin Voyages is no different. The ladyships are a welcoming space for all LGBTQ+ passengers; their ships feature gender neutral toilets and drag entertainment. Staff are expressed to express their gender identity freely and chose the unform that they identify with most. Pride month is a party from start to finish with pride-inspired cocktails and on deck DJ’s …Now you’re voyaging!
…And the winners are…
In no particular order, we were honoured to hand prizes over to Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Saga Cruises and VIVA Cruises. Well done to all the teams involved in these initiatives and well done to all cruise lines shortlisted!
