Titanic Belfast has been crowned World’s Leading Tourist Attraction  at the prestigious World Travel Awards in the Maldives.

Having already beaten the Colosseum, the Acropolis and the Eiffel Tower to become Europe’s official Leading Tourist Attraction, Titanic Belfast sailed its way to victory to become the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction, bringing the award back to UK after ten years.

With over one million votes cast from over 216 countries in the awards, Titanic Belfast was crowned as the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction.

It beat off stiff competition from eight global finalists, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the Las Vegas Strip, USA, Machu Picchu, Peru and Guinness Storehouse, Ireland.

It is the first time an attraction from Northern Ireland has won this prestigious accolade.

Tim Husbands, Titanic Belfast chief executive, said: “Over the past few years, we have continued to go from strength to strength but to be voted the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction by both the industry and the public for excellence in tourism and for our original product, is really the jewel in our crown.

“We are delighted that this award firmly shines a spotlight not only on RMS Titanic Belfast but Belfast and Northern Ireland, and celebrates our authentic insight and connection to RMS Titanic.

“The Titanic story captures hearts and minds throughout the world and at Titanic Belfast, this is no exception.

“Our interpretation of the story and ability to engage with visitors on many different levels has been fundamental in winning this award.”