Cadets recognised at Maritime Solent Awards 2026

Three Southampton Solent University students from Warsash Maritime School have been recognised at the Maritime Solent Awards 2026, with Aidan Kirby winning Maritime Apprentice of the Year.

Now in their fifth year, the Maritime Solent Awards celebrate outstanding achievement, talent, innovation and legacy across the Solent region’s maritime industry. Organised by Maritime Solent, the not-for-profit, industry-led body representing the sector, the awards were presented at the Utilita Bowl on, where 15 winners were announced in front of more than 300 guests.

“We are incredibly proud of Aidan and Seren and delighted to see their hard work and commitment recognised by the Maritime Solent Awards,” said Sophie Shaughnessy, senior director, corporate cadets at Carnival Corporation.

“Aidan’s win and Seren’s selection as a finalist reflect the talent, professionalism and commitment they have demonstrated throughout their cadetships. Through our partnership with Warsash Maritime School, we are helping talented cadets gain the skills and experience they need to build successful careers at sea, and we look forward to seeing all that Aidan and Seren accomplish with Carnival Corporation in the future.”

Aidan, who is studying for a BSc (Hons) in Nautical Science through a Deck Officer Cadetship sponsored by Princess Cruises, was at sea on the night, so his family accepted the award on his behalf.

Seren, an engineering cadet also sponsored by Carnival Corporation, was a finalist in the Maritime Cadet of the Year category. Her cadetship has taken her to sea aboard P&O Cruises’ Aurora and Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, where she has worked with engineering teams on machinery maintenance, overhauls and day-to-day operations.

Elizabeth Hammond, who was nominated for Maritime Cadet of the Year, is studying for a BSc (Hons) Marine Engineering and is sponsored by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. She hopes to join the fleet as a qualified Engineer Officer of the Watch, following the completion of her cadetship.

Kunal Anand, Director of the Warsash Maritime School, said: "Seeing three of our cadets recognised at the Maritime Solent Awards is a real source of pride for everyone at Warsash. Aidan’s win as Maritime Apprentice of the Year is a fantastic achievement, and for all three to be recognised alongside the very best talent in the Solent region’s maritime industry reflects their hard work, professionalism and commitment."

"Their success also reflects the strength of our partnerships with Carnival Corporation and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and other UK cadet training providers, who play such an important role in developing the next generation of seafarers. They are a credit to themselves, their sponsors and to Warsash Maritime School. Congratulations to all three."

Image provided by Carnival Corporation.