Actor and television presenter Luke Jacobz has been named as the host for this year’s 22nd annual Cruise Industry Awards, set to take place on 8 March at The Star, Sydney.

Joining a crowd of 500, Jacobz will lead the evening’s celebrations, honouring the brightest stars of the Australasian cruise community.

The sold-out event, presented by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), promises to be filled with accolades and entertainment as the Australasian cruise industry pays tribute to its travel trade partners. A total of 75 finalists from across Australia and New Zealand will compete for recognition in 15 award categories, including Agency of the Year, Cruise Consultant of the Year, and Rising Star.

“This year’s awards night will celebrate the achievements of our travel agent members with an energy and showmanship to rival our cruise line entertainers,” CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said. “Luke Jacobz is a brilliant fit for a night that promises to reflect the same excitement we create for our guests at sea.”

Jacobz, a familiar face on Australian television for over 25 years, is known for his roles in Home and Away and McLeod’s Daughters, as well as hosting X Factor and winning Dancing with the Stars twice. He also regularly appears on Channel 7’s Sydney Weekender.

This year, CLIA received around 800 nominations for the awards, with key categories including Cruise Champion, Promotion of the Year, and the prestigious Media Award. For a full list of finalists, visit the CLIA Cruise Industry Awards website.