DFDS scoops historic 12th consecutive win at World Travel Awards

The Danish-headquartered company was named 'Europe's Leading Ferry Operator 2023' in its 12th consecutive win at the awards ceremony which acknowledges, rewards and celebrates excellence in the travel, tourism and hospitality industries.

Voted for by passengers and travel industry peers, the award represents DFDS’s commitment to unrivalled service, unparalleled reliability, and an unwavering dedication to passenger satisfaction.

As part of this year’s award nomination, DFDS celebrated the reasons why it continues to get nominated for, and win, the coveted title year after year – its amazing people.

From the dedicated bakers who wake at 2am each morning to handcraft delicious bread for breakfast to the helpful customer care team who ensure each guest’s booking is smooth sailing, DFDS shared the personal stories of the people behind every journey to shine a spotlight on the care, passion and dedication that is felt by its passengers but not always seen. A way of making the invisible, visible.

While reflecting on the success of the award win, DFDS’s Vice-President and Head of Passenger, Kasper Moos, said: “The recognition as Europe's Leading Ferry Operator for 2023 is a direct reflection of the hard work and passion demonstrated by every member of our team.

“It also acts as a reminder that our story is not just one of ferries and destinations, but a celebration of the journey and the power of human connection. It reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional service and memorable experiences for our passengers who have consistently chosen DFDS as their preferred Ferry operator.

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who voted for us and showed their support – especially our passengers. Their belief in our service inspires us to continually strive for excellence. 

“I hope this accolade will also encourage people who have perhaps never travelled by ferry to experience the pleasure of sea travel and discover DFDS for the first time.”

DFDS operates a diverse network of ten passenger routes across Europe, carrying more than 4.7million passengers between:

• Amsterdam-Newcastle
• Copenhagen-Oslo and Frederikshavn-Oslo
• Dover-Calais, Dover-Dunkirk, Dieppe-Newhaven and Rosslare-Dunkirk on the Channel
• Paldiski- Kapellskär, Klaipeda-Karlshamn and Klaipeda-Kiel in the Baltics

Following the indented acquisition of FRS Iberia/Maroc, DFDS will be welcoming a further 750 employees and 1.9million passengers as it expands its network with three short-sea routes across the Strait of Gibraltar connecting Spain and Morocco.