Trusted Travel partners among the winners on cruising industry’s night of nights

Trusted partner of Travel, Ignite Travel Group, had double the reason to celebrate at the 23rd Cruise Lines International Association Cruise Industry Awards this month.

Ignite claimed two of 15 awards presented at the biggest gala event of its kind held by the Australasian cruise industry, attended by nearly 600 guests at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney.

Winners were chosen from 83 finalists from Australia and New Zealand, with this year’s awards attracting a record 1200 nominations.

Ignite Travel Group was awarded Cruise Agency of the Year, Multi-Location/Brand, claiming the honour for the second consecutive year.

Package travel specialists Ignite became part of the Flight Centre Travel Group in 2019, and expanded beyond Australia in 2024 with its acquisition of Cruise Club UK. The group has more than 280 staff and handles 30,000 travel enquiries a month.

One of Ignite’s many “My” brands — online agency My Cruises, was awarded Agency/Agent Cruise Promotion of the Year for Explorations by Norwegian, which are combination holidays ranging from eight-day escapes to 371-day world voyages.

“We’re proud to be part of such an incredible industry and look forward to continuing to create unforgettable cruise experiences together,” the company posted after the presentation.

Also among the winners celebrated on the night was Jason Rigg from Phil Hoffmann Travel Glenelg who won the Rising Star, Australia award.

CLIA executive director Australasia Joel Katz said the evening’s theme The Greatest Show reflected the status of the industry in 2026.

“Cruising really is one of the greatest shows in travel,” he said.

“It is a remarkable spectacle of ships, destinations, culture and experiences that bring joy to millions of travellers around the world.

“But just like any great show, the magic only happens because of the people behind it.”

Gavin Smith, vice-president and managing director, Australia and New Zealand of Royal Caribbean, and longstanding cruise line executive, was announced the 20th CLIA Hall of Fame inductee.

The long-time CLIA executive, including multiple stints as chairman, is credited for helping develop the local industry over many years.

CLIA Australasia chairman Peter Little says of Gavin: “He has led through periods of transformation and expansion, always with a clear focus on strengthening the industry and the partnerships that support it. He has been a strong advocate for collaboration, for the travel trade and for the long-term success of cruising in this region.”

More than 100 singers, dancers and performers from Brent Street performing arts academy captured the spirit and excitement of cruising throughout the evening. Entertainer Tim Campbell was typically polished, and funny, as MC.

Click here for the full list of winners CLIAS 2026.