11 of our Advisors Honored as Virtuoso Travel Icons in 2025

We are proud to announce that eleven of our exceptional travel advisors have been recognized this year as Virtuoso Travel Icons. This prestigious distinction, awarded by the world’s leading luxury travel network, represents the pinnacle of expertise and dedication in the travel industry—the top 1% of Virtuoso advisors globally.

Throughout our years of partnership with Virtuoso, the leading global network of agencies specializing in luxury and experiential travel, our advisors have continuously been recognized as Icons – with the number of them increasing year by year as our expertise cements itself within the industry. In 2025 the number of recognized travel advisors has grown to 11, with both senior and up-and-coming travel specialists in our team getting such accolades. 

On behalf of the entire team at Luxury Cruise Connections, we wish to congratulate Derek Avello, JC Quintana, Steven Gulko, Chavely Alvarez, Laura Bowman, Roger Powe, Monica Anderson, Brian Carmona, Ruben Guzman, Diego Riveron, and Max Espana, while recognizing the value they represent not just for our agency, but to you as a traveler trusting our services.

What Does Being a Virtuoso Travel Icon Mean?

Virtuoso Travel Icons are acknowledged for their exceptional sales performance, deep industry connections, and unparalleled expertise in luxury travel. This designation isn’t just an award—it represents years of dedication to mastering the art of luxury cruise planning and building meaningful relationships with the world’s premier travel suppliers.

When you work with a Virtuoso Travel Icon, you are partnering with an advisor who brings tangible benefits to your travel planning:

Exclusive Access and VIP Treatment

Our Virtuoso Travel Icons leverage their industry status to secure amenities often unavailable to the general public. These include priority boarding, complimentary shipboard credits, room upgrades, and access to invitation-only events. Their status opens doors that remain closed to most travelers.

Superior Value Through Industry Connections

The strong relationships our Icons maintain with cruise lines and luxury travel providers translate directly to better value for our clients. These connections often lead to special pricing, added perks, and personalized attention from cruise staff who recognize our Icons’ distinguished status.

Expert Guidance Based on First-Hand Experience

Virtuoso Travel Icons regularly participate in exclusive familiarization trips and specialized training with the world’s finest cruise lines. This first-hand experience allows them to match you with the perfect cruise experience based on actual knowledge, not brochures or websites.

Peace of Mind Through Insider Knowledge

Travel disruptions happen, but our Icons’ industry relationships provide an invaluable safety net. When challenges arise, they have direct lines to decision-makers who can resolve issues quickly and efficiently, often before you’re even aware of a potential problem.

Personalized Service at the Highest Level

What truly sets our Icons apart is their commitment to personalized service. They take the time to understand your preferences, anticipate your needs, and craft custom experiences that align perfectly with your travel vision.

The Virtuoso Travel Icon designation isn’t just an industry accolade—it’s your assurance that you’re working with advisors who have proven their ability to transform good vacations into extraordinary journeys.

Whether you are planning your first luxury cruise or your fifteenth, our team of Virtuoso Icons is ready to elevate your experience with their expertise, connections, and passionate dedication to the art of travel.

Ready to experience the difference? Connect with one of our Virtuoso Travel Icons today and discover why the world’s most discerning travelers choose Luxury Cruise Connections.