MSC Cruises is launching a new “True Partnerships” award program to honor its top performing North American travel partners for loyalty and contributions to the line’s success.

The awards will recognize recipients in the following categories: Home-based Account of the Year; Online Account of the Year; Tour Operator of the Year; Brand Ambassador of the Year; and Overall Partner of the Year. Key considerations include business growth in revenue and guests, partnership support, innovative marketing efforts driving increased consumer awareness, and other attributes.

The awards will be presented this fall by Richard Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises-USA, during a three-night event to celebrate the North American debut of MSC Divina as she sails on her maiden voyage from PortMiami on Nov. 20. Criteria for the 2013 awards will take into account travel partner business from January through Nov. 1, 2013.

MSC Cruises, www.msccruisesusa.com