Finalists include bartenders from Holland America, two Carnival and Royal Caribbean
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Bacardi Global Travel Retail has shortlisted five finalists for its 2015 Cruise Bartender of the Year competition, which was launched last November.
The annual competition, which is now in its tenth year, aims to find the best bartender on the high seas, as part of the Bacardi strategy to help raise standards of professionalism and cocktail-making in the industry. This year’s winner will be chosen on 20 March 2015 at the finals in Miami.
As in previous years, participants are required to use at least one spirit from the Bacardi rum portfolio to create their own cocktail recipes. The drinks must be inspired by the participants’ travels around the world.
The finalists include two bartenders from Carnival Cruise Line – Richard Anderson, who works onboard Carnival Glory, and Nilesh Patel, who works Carnival Sensation. Two Holland America bartenders have also reached the final including Gerome Firmalo, who sails on Oosterdam, and Kenneth Tuason, who works on Maasdam. The fifth finalist is Oleksandr Lurchenko, who sails onboard Royal Caribbean International’s Allure of the Seas.
“The Bacardi Cruise Competition is a central component in our strategy to support our business partners in recognising and encouraging ever-increasing standards of professionalism in the industry’s bartender community,” said Zachary Sulkes, regional manager of Bacardi Travel Retail Americas. “Each time I visit a ship I witness inspiring examples of the passion this community has for excellence in cocktail making. The five finalists we have shortlisted are prime examples of individuals who understand the importance of their role in creating amazing guest experiences.”
The winner will receive US$5,000 cash prize and a Bacardi experience, specifically selected to further the recipient’s craft and knowledge base.