Norwegian Cruise Line vice president general manager international, Francis Riley, left, accepts the award from Sion Rapson, global business director, World Travel Awards

Norwegian Cruise Line has been named World’s Leading Large Ship Cruise Line by the World Travel Awards.

The 19th annual awards recognise travel companies for delivering an outstanding customer experience and are voted by travel agents worldwide.

This is the first time Norwegian, which has been honoured with Europe’s Leading Cruise Line for five consecutive years, has been honoured on a global scale by the World Travel Awards. 

“This award is a testament to the hard work of our dedicated team members to increase our travel partner support and education through our Partners First initiative, while also continuing to enhance guest satisfaction to new heights,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer.

“We are so honoured to receive this prestigious award and thank our travel partners worldwide for their continuing support.

“We have many exciting things to come in 2013 with the launch of Norwegian Breakaway, and we look forward to continuing to offer our guests the freedom to create their ideal vacation experience on the most contemporary ships at sea.”