The Bermudian-run Ubersoca Cruise, a Caribbean music festival at sea, has been named the Best Cruise Event of the Year at the Caribbean Music Awards in New York.

The cruise exploring destinations such as St Croix and Taino Bay in Puerto Plato, Dominican Republic, beat out a number of other charters to win.

Bermudian chief executive Nathaniel Turner and chief marketing officer Jodi Covington accepted the award, dedicating it to the cruise’s entertainers and their guests.

“This award is a testament to the hard work, passion and community that drive Ubersoca Cruise,” Mr Turner said in his acceptance speech. “It is for every crew member, artist and guest who has turned this cruise into a floating celebration of Caribbean culture.”

Mr Turner practised as a barrister in Bermuda for more than 16 years. He works full time as the CEO of Ubersoca Cruise and is based locally.

He founded Ubersoca Cruise in 2015 after doing a family cruise that did not resonate with his Caribbean roots.

“It lacked excitement, the right food, atmosphere and entertainment,” he said. “This experience motivated me to create a cruise that catered specifically to the Caribbean diaspora, combining soca music and cultural experiences.”

Ubersoca Cruise has not yet included Bermuda in its itinerary, but Mr Turner and Ms Covington were optimistic it could be part of future sailings.

“We have been in discussions with the Bermuda Tourism Authority and other key stakeholders,” Ms Covington said. “Considering that Ubersoca Cruise typically generates an economic impact of over $2.5 million dollars for each destination we visit, we believe adding Bermuda would be highly advantageous for both our passengers and the island.”

Since its maiden voyage in 2016, Ubersoca Cruise has welcomed more than 22,000 guests.

Mr Turner said the cruise is known for its dynamic blend of soca music performances, vibrant themed parties and immersive cultural activities.

It is gearing up for its tenth sailing, called the X-Edition.

“This milestone edition is set to showcase the very best of Caribbean entertainment, with more than 80 artists expected to perform across multiple stages on the ship,” Mr Turner said.