INTERNATIONAL. Norwegian Cruise Line Head Mixologist Francis Ndung has been named World Class Cruise Bartender of the Year 2024. He is set to represent the cruise category at the World Class Global Finals in Shanghai this September.
As reported, Diageo Global Travel opened its search for the ‘World’s Best Cruise Line Bartender’ in February, hosting the first Cruise Cocktail Festival in partnership with leading cruise companies.
Prior to the cruise final of the global competition Ndung took part in the World Class Cocktail Cruise Festival, where six contestants created cocktails using Johnnie Walker and Ketel One Vodka from the Diageo Reserve portfolio of luxury brands.
These creations were then placed on bar menus throughout March and April. The judges – including Laura Newman, World Class US bartender of the year 2018 – narrowed the field of contestants down to six mixologists who took part in the finals last night in Miami.
The finalists participated in two challenges, ‘Check-On’ and ‘Bar of the Future’, with each challenge evaluated by a panel of four experts.
Ndung said: “It means so much to be among my talented peers creating delicious cocktails. This is my passion and I feel honoured to win amongst this group of finalists.
“I am already looking forward to representing my fellow contestants at the competition in Shanghai. Bring on the Global Finals.”
Diageo Customer Marketing Manager Cruise and Airlines Andres Annese said: “It has been a brilliant final. We have witnessed the best that the world of cruising offers its floating patrons which many don’t get to see. The talent on board delighting passengers night after night. The skill and creativity have been striking.
“We are delighted to now have Francis Ndung to represent this wonderful category at the World Class Global Finals in Shanghai this September.
“These bartenders really are the unsung heroes of the hospitality industry, delighting travellers for decades.
“They have so many hurdles to overcome – balancing the desire for luxury with the restrictions that come with being at sea; constantly working to excite customers who are aboard for several days or weeks at a time.
“Mastering the classics but shaking it up every evening is something that Francis Ndung proved he can do here tonight, and we’re just thrilled to shine a light on this wonderful area of the hospitality industry.”
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