Cruise Critic's editorial team has selected what they consider the best of the best when it comes to cruising in their first UK awards.
Sixteen cruise lines, ships and ports have been honoured in the awards, including a very happy Fred Olsen, which was the only line to walk away with top place in two categories - "Best of seeing the world" and "Best refurbished ship", namely Braemar.
Most lines get a look in somehow - even little Hebridean Island Cruises which is named "Best for royalty" - and the awards are much as you'd expect - Princess best for romance, Thomson Cruises best for first-timers and Ocean Village best for families.
There are also awards for food, fitness and fun, luxury, celebrity spotting and river cruising. That went to Uniworld, a name not actually known here as it's sold exclusively by Titan Travel under the Elegant River Cruises' name.
Of course you can't have an awards ceremony without one or two surprises. Southampton as best departure port? Only if you've never hit it on a busy turnaround day.
And what's this? P&O Cruises named "best for stag and hen parties". Hmm. Not sure they will be shouting too loudly about that.
Jane Archer
