by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 4:37 PM ET, Tue November 10, 2026
Known for being an extraordinary leader and someone whose career inspires many others, Royal Caribbean’s Vicki Freed was recognized at the 2026 Travvy Award ceremony with a Champion of Women in Travel Award.
An industry veteran, Freed has worked with Royal Caribbean for more than 18 years and serves as senior vice president of Sales, Trade Support and Service for the global cruise line. Prior to joining Royal Caribbean, Freed spent nearly 30 years with Carnival Cruise Line, including 15 years as senior vice president of sales and marketing.
Freed also made history as the first and still only female chair of the industry association Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), a position that helped her pave the way for other women in cruise leadership.
Royal Caribbean's Vicki Freed accepts Champion of Women in Travel award at the 2026 Travvy Awards (Credit: Northstar Travel Group)
Vanessa McGovern of Global Travel Collection presented Freed with the honor at last week’s Travvy Award ceremony in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Like many others, Freed was an inspiration for McGovern’s own career in the travel industry.
McGovern recalled how Freed raised a family and simultaneously built an extraordinary career, pointing out that "For women like me, once told we couldn't do both, that example is incredibly powerful.”
But, McGovern added, Freed’s influence goes far beyond her career title.
"[Vicki has] brought countless women along with her, sometimes without even realizing it. Not through traditional mentorship, but through her presence, professionalism, consistency, and impeccable standards."
“She's brought countless women along with her, sometimes without even realizing it. Not through traditional mentorship, but through her presence, professionalism, consistency, and impeccable standards,” McGovern added. “Vicky doesn't need to tell women to aim higher. She sets the bar, and we rise to meet it.”
Before wrapping up her introduction, McGovern also credited Freed with not just establishing the gold standard in the travel industry, but establishing the “royal standard,” for others to follow.
“And despite those incredibly high standards, Vicki has this remarkable ability to make everyone feel like they're her favorite,” said McGovern. "And that's the magic of Vicki. She makes each of us feel seen, valued, and capable of more.”
“Vicki, thank you for showing us what's possible, for the standard you continue to set, and for the women you've inspired simply by being who you are,” McGovern concluded.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
