Trade’s favourite brands revealed in Hotlist 2025

Royal Caribbean International, AmaWaterways and G Adventures have each scooped a hat-trick of awards in The Hotlist, Travel Weekly’s annual survey of the trade’s favourite ocean cruise, river cruise and touring and adventure brands. 

 

Silversea, P&O Cruises, Scenic, Intrepid Travel and Newmarket Holidays were double winners, picking up two awards each at an event held in central London on Wednesday, in association with headline partner Virgin Atlantic. 

 

They were among 19 winning brands and 54 companies shortlisted across 30 categories to recognise expertise in key customer demographics, destinations and specialist product. The results are revealed in The Hotlist 2025, published with this week’s magazine.

 

Lucy Huxley, editor-in-chief of Travel Weekly, said: “We had a fantastic response with nearly 6,000 votes from agents up and down the country. It’s brilliant to see so many frontline sellers showing their support for the companies that look after their customers.

 

“We received hundreds of positive comments about the excellent service, variety of product and incredible trade support from these brands, proving how much agents value their relationships with their suppliers.

 

“I’d like to say a particular thank you to all the agents who took the time to cast their votes, as well as to our headline sponsor Virgin Atlantic and trade partners Clia and Atas.”

 

Royal Caribbean led the ocean cruising brands, being voted the best line for families, entertainment and Caribbean sailings.

 

AmaWaterways was recognised for its food and drink, wellness programme and excursions, while G Adventures topped the touring list for active itineraries, younger travellers and Latin America.

 

New categories recognised the best cruise lines for small-ship sailings and warm-water expeditions – both scooped by Silversea – along with fitness and wellness cruises, which went to Virgin Voyages in the ocean sector, and the best culture and history tours, where Titan Travel prevailed.

 

Nicki Goldsmith, director of global agency sales at Virgin Atlantic, said: “We were delighted to reveal the winners. Congratulations to all the suppliers who earned recognition this year.”

 

The survey hosted on Travel Weekly’s website between March 5 and April 11 received 5,811 votes.