Orion Expedition Cruises was among the winners at the recent Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards.

The company was named the best responsible cruise operator at the event, which was held as part of the World Travel Market in London yesterday (November 10th).

Arranged to recognise organisations and individuals that are making a positive contribution to conservation and local communities, the awards featured thousands of nominations in 13 different categories.

Commenting on Orion Expedition Cruises, which provides five-star experiences in Australasia, the judges said that the company "shows a real commitment to the communities it visits".

They added: "By acknowledging that authenticity can only be realised for their guests by working in partnership with communities, [Orion] conduct community research ahead of establishing new ports of call - helping protect cultural heritage and environment while offering real benefits to the places they visit."

The judges also highlighted cruising as a growth area and identified Orion as "one to watch" within the industry.