Friday, June 27, 2025
ROL Cruise, the Colchester-based independent travel agency, recently celebrated a significant milestone—its 30th anniversary. The agency brought together around 130 travel professionals to commemorate the occasion with a special event held at Sea Containers London on June 25, 2025. The celebration was not only a reflection of the company’s longevity but also an acknowledgment of the contributions made by its partners and employees who have helped shape its success over the years
A Night of Recognition for Outstanding Partners
During the event, ROL Cruise recognized the achievements of its cruise line partners and key individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the agency’s growth and success. Notable honorees included leaders from top cruise lines such as Cunard, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, Silversea Cruises, and Oceania Cruises, as well as Hurtigruten’s Iain Powell. Sarah Wikevand, Chief Commercial Officer of ROL Cruise, emphasized how these partnerships were vital to the company’s impressive record of growth, including the milestone turnover of £207 million in the previous year.
Among those awarded were Donatella Valzasina, head of sales for the South at Silversea Cruises, and Louise Craddock, director of sales for the UK and Ireland at Oceania Cruises. Their efforts have been instrumental in strengthening ROL Cruise’s market position and fostering lasting business relationships. The recognition served as a testament to the role these individuals and companies have played in supporting the agency’s success.
A Record-Breaking Year and Employee Ownership Transition
Speaking at the event, Sarah Wikevand celebrated the agency’s record-breaking performance, notably a turnover of £207 million in the last year. She explained that such achievements would not have been possible without the collective effort of the ROL Cruise team. In a significant shift in corporate structure, the agency transitioned to being employee-owned eight months ago, an evolution that has reinvigorated the staff’s passion for the business. Wikevand attributed this transition to a renewed sense of purpose and shared goal, ensuring the agency’s growth trajectory will continue in the coming years.
Wikevand’s comments emphasized that the agency’s focus on strong relationships—both within the team and with its partners—would remain a cornerstone of its future success. “We are all committed to growing the business even further,” she said, highlighting the importance of collaboration within the company.
Reflecting on Milestones and Overcoming Challenges
The anniversary event also provided an opportunity to reflect on ROL Cruise’s remarkable journey over the past three decades. Former managing director and chairman Jeremy Dickinson, who retired from the business, shared his memories of key milestones in the company’s history. He reminisced about the agency’s transition from a primarily land-based business to a successful cruise specialist. One of the most notable moments in the company’s history was its first full-page cruise advert 20 years ago—a bold move that helped establish the brand as a key player in the cruise travel market.
Dickinson also reflected on the difficult times ROL Cruise had weathered, including the financial crisis of 2008 and the challenges presented by the 2020 pandemic. Despite these obstacles, the company has managed not only to survive but thrive, thanks to the dedication of its employees and partners.
Moving Forward with Strong Leadership and Vision
Jeremy Dickinson expressed confidence in the agency’s future, stating that ROL Cruise was “in great hands” with the current leadership team, including Sarah Wikevand and Rosie Cairns, Chief Executive Officer. Wikevand, in particular, has played a significant role in leading the company through its transition to employee ownership and helping shape its future direction. As Wikevand takes the reins, she has expressed her gratitude for the early support from founder Peter Beadles and Dickinson, as well as the opportunity to now support Rosie Cairns in leading the agency to new heights.
Wikevand reflected on the remarkable journey that has brought ROL Cruise to its current position of success. “I feel incredibly lucky to have been a part of the early days of Peter growing the business, Jeremy transforming it, and now supporting Rosie as she takes this superb business to the next level,” she said.
Toasting to Future Success and Partnerships
The event concluded with a heartfelt toast to the company’s achievements and future endeavors. Wikevand raised a glass to “smooth sailings, strong partnerships, and many more adventures ahead,” echoing the sentiment of the evening. The 30th anniversary celebration was not just a milestone in ROL Cruise’s history but also a moment to look forward to continued success and growth, fueled by a passionate and committed team, strong partnerships, and a shared vision for the future.
Looking Ahead: A Stronger Future for ROL Cruise
As ROL Cruise embarks on its next chapter, the agency remains focused on expanding its portfolio and providing high-quality travel experiences for its clients. The event highlighted the agency’s adaptability, resilience, and commitment to customer satisfaction—values that will guide ROL Cruise as it navigates the future of the travel and cruise industry. The recognition of key partners and employees serves as a reminder that the agency’s journey is a collective effort, and its success is built on the strength of its relationships and the dedication of its team.
(Source: ROL Cruise, Sea Containers London, Cunard, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, Silversea Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Hurtigruten)
