AmaPrima Christening

AmaPrima courtesy Vahali

AmaPrima Christening (17 photos)

AmaWaterways' AmaPrima River Ship Christened by Valerie Wilson

Valerie Wilson of Valerie Wilson Travel, Inc.is the godmother of AmaWaterways newest ship, the AmaPrima. The traditional christening ceremony was held in Vilshofen, Germany.

The tradition of christening a ship originated more than 4,000 years ago. A respected and well-known woman is carefully selected to serve as the new ship’s godmother, entrusted with blessing the vessel at a special christening ceremony. The blessing for the safety of the ship’s passengers and crew typically concludes with the time-honored ritual of breaking a Champagne bottle against the ship’s hull.

AmaPrima Details & Itineraries

The AmaPrima, a sister ship to the AmaCerto, is a deluxe 164-feet passenger vessel that incorporates many innovative design features, including Twin Balcony Staterooms and Suites, which measure up to 350 sq. feet. Dutch shipbuilders,Vahali, completed this second order of the Swiss-American company AmaWaterways AG back in March.   The ship has been sailing Danube itineraries since April.
 
Guests will enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations with free-flowing fine wine and beer at a choice of dining venues. The AmaPrima also features a heated pool with swim-up bar, massage and beauty salon, fitness center, and complimentary in-room Internet access and ship-wide Wi-Fi. The AmaPrima even carries a fleet of bicycles onboard so guests can enjoy Europe’s many miles of scenic riverside bike paths on their own.

The AmaPrima serves the Dutch and Belgium Waterways and the Danube and Rhine Rivers on 10 itineraries: Tulip Time Cruise; The Romantic Danube; Melodies of the Danube; The Legendary Danube; Blue Danube Discovery; Black Sea Voyage; Magnificent Europe; Grand Danube Cruise; Christmas Time Cruise; and Great Capitals & Vintages of the Danube.

Consult our River Cruising Guide to learn more about AMA Waterways and the other river cruise companies.  River cruising is an up and coming alternative to large vessel cruising. It is possible to dock in the heart of your destination where you can be immersed in the culture and history.

A Royal Godmother for New Ship

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge – Royal Princess^®

June 13, 2013 | Southampton, England

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (Catherine Elizabeth "Kate"; née Middleton), the wife of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, has graciously accepted Princess Cruises' invitation to become the Godmother of Royal Princess.

The Duchess is admired around the world for her style and grace, The Duchess has had a major impact on British fashion and was named on of "The 100 Most Influential People in the World" by Time Magazine in 2012. She is a supporter of several British charities including The Art Room, Action on Addiction, East Anglia's Children's Hospice, the National Portrait Gallery and the Scout Association.

Tradition & Royalty

Like her namesake that debuted in 1984, the new Royal Princess is indeed a special ship, inspiring an equally special godmother. The ship will be officially named  in a spectacular ceremony on 13 June 2013 in the port of Southampton, that will combine some nautical traditions, special British elements and contemporary touches.

The ceremony will uphold British ship-naming traditions including the blessing, a performance by the Royal Marines Band and the pipers of the Irish Guards, together with contemporary highlights.

Alan Buckelew, the line’s president and CEO said “It is a great honor for Princess Cruises that Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge has accepted our invitation to become the Godmother to Royal Princess. We are delighted that the Duchess will launch our new ship and can think of no better way to celebrate our company’s British heritage and our commitment to the country.”

Inaugural Year

Click to view PDF

Royal Princess will arrive at the Ocean Terminal in Southampton on Friday, June 7, where she will commence a series of events for customers and travel agents, including a special naming gala on the evening of Wednesday, June 12. The ship’s inaugural celebrations will conclude with her maiden voyage on June 16.

Two preview cruises will take place (June 9 and June 14). The cruises will sail round-trip from Southampton on a two-night itinerary which calls in St. Peter Port, Guernsey.   Following the inaugural voyage, Royal Princess will sail 12-night cruises out of Barcelona and Venice throughout the summer. A sister ship, Regal Princess, will arrive in spring 2014. 

Related Posts:

Royal Princess Float Out
A New Princess is Born
Introducing Princess Cruises Newest Ship

Royal Caribbean Has a New Star

Kristin Chenoweth, Godmother Quantum of the Seas 
    

Kristin Chenoweth, is adding yet another accolade to her impressive resume: godmother to Royal Caribbean International's much anticipated new cruise ship, Quantum of the Seas.  The cruise line announced the appointment, which is steeped in maritime tradition, in an unconventional way during a red carpet-inspired commercial that aired during ABC television network's broadcast of the Oscars.

Chenoweth was chosen for her effervescent personality and ability to wow audiences. Her versatile range of roles made her a natural fit, given that Quantum of the Seas, set to debut in fall 2014, is poised to introduce unprecedented experiences and amenities only attainable on Royal Caribbean International.

Maritime Tradition

Historically an honor reserved for heads of state, politicians and celebrities, godmothers not only break a bottle to christen a ship, but also serve as guiding spirits to its guests and crew. Royal Caribbean looks to capture the essence of the role by choosing women whose life lessons and achievements illustrate the kind of courage, dedication and determination that are an inspiration to all.

"Kristin's effortless grace and dynamic performances align perfectly with our newest class of ships and we could not be more honored to have her represent Quantum of the Seas," said Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.  "Working with such a remarkable and versatile woman for one of maritime's longest standing traditions is an exciting experience."

"I am so excited to be named godmother of Royal Caribbean International's newest ship, Quantum of the Seas. I have been lucky to play many roles and I am looking forward to this one," stated Kristin Chenoweth. "I think the Royal Caribbean brand is the perfect match for me, especially with their history of providing exceptional entertainment experiences to their guests."

The Quantum class of ships, Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas, will build upon Royal Caribbean's legacy of revolutionary ship design and bold innovation. At 158,000 gross registered tons (GRT) and with a capacity of 4,100 guests based on double occupancy, the ships will debut in fall 2014 and spring 2015, respectively.

Our ships have always been designed for WOW and with Quantum of Seas, we are excited to introduce Quantum cruising and the 'at sea' firsts that our guests have come to expect from Royal Caribbean," said Adam Goldstein, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "We look forward to working with Kristen and having her officially name our ship when she is delivered in the fall of 2014."

More information will be announced in the coming months.  Be sure to subscribe to our blog and Facebook fan page to learn all about this new WOW.

Speaking of WOW,  see our Facebook Fan Page for a special offer in honor of this announcement.
 

Related Blog Articles:

Prepare to be WOWED – The Quantum Class

A Diva Like No Other

Introducing MSC Divina

Divinely inspired by Sophia Loren, MSC Divina offers fabulous new features such as The Garden infinity pool with Zen relaxation zone overlooking the ship's wake.

Other diversions include an Italian piazza with live piano music, a gelateria, candy shop, clothing and jewelry stores.

Fall 2013/Winter 2014 marks the inaugural Caribbean season of the spectacular MSC Divina, the 12th ship in the MSC Cruises fleet. Guests can sail between Venice and their newest point of departure, PortMiami, enjoying a romantic Transatlantic cruise in true Mediterranean style. Or once the ship arrives in its winter home, guests can discover some of the brightest gems in the Caribbean on 3-night and 7-night adventures.

PLEASE VOTE FOR ME
Voting Begins Nov. 19th
In honor of their new Diva, whose Godmother is Sophia Loren, MSC held a contest for agents.  I've won once, and now it's my chance to reach for the stars  with their Grand Prize cruise in the glamorous Sophia Loren Royal Suite on MSC Divina

I NEED YOUR HELP -- PLEASE VOTE FOR ME IN MSC CRUISES PHOTO CONTEST

http://www.msccruisesdivina.com/photocontestfin.aspx

Search for Christine Pappin on the page

Piazza del Doge Italian Square

If you've ever been to Italy, you are familiar with the piazza, or town square.  The are commonly found at the meeting of two or more streets. Most Italian cities have several piazzas with streets radiating from the center. Shops and other small businesses are found on piazzas as it is an ideal place to set up a business.

Imagine strolling along the piazza while on either the Transatlantic or Caribbean cruises onboard MSC Divina.   Should I be fortunate enough to win the Grand Prize in the photo contest, you'll find me here enjoying my favorite gelato.

Accomodations

Guests enjoy European elegance and style throughout MSC Divina, including the 69 luxury suites in the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, available for the first time in the Caribbean. Also debuting in the Caribbean, are new Aurea Suites with select spa amenities.

The majority of guests on MSC Divina enjoy ocean views. We'll feature more about the accommodations in an upcoming post. I think you'll agree that MSC Divina is a Diva that will be sailing in the Caribbean starting next year. Contact us for more information.

Godmothers Named for Norwegian Breakaway

Rockettes - courtesy Norwegian Cruise Line

Rocketttes Named Godmother

Norwegian Breakaway

There is a lot of tradition that is followed even today when a new ship is placed into service.  One of the most important milestones is the christening, where the Godmother breaks a bottle of champagne against the hull of the ship.

When Norwegian Breakaway is christened next May,  she will have not one, not two, but several Godmothers.   The world famous Rockettes, iconic dancers of New York, will do the honors.  MSG Entertainment, owner of the Rockettes, announced Norwegian Cruise Line will be the official cruise line of the Rockettes and Radio City Music Hall and an official partner of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. 

"I strongly believe that the Rockettes, one of the most beloved and recognizable New York icons, are the perfect choice to serve as the ship's godmothers," Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian's CEO, said in a prepared statement. 

Most ships have one Godmother, but some ships have had more than one.   

Rockettes Will be Onboard

The Rockettes role won't end with the breaking of the bottle against the hull.Two dancers from the famed troupe will sail aboard each of the first six sailings of Norwegian Breakaway, and the first sailing of each month thereafter. While onboard, the two Rockettes will lead exclusive Rockette-themed fitness classes and will participate in photo ops, as well as meet and greets with passengers. The Rockettes also will be showcased via a historical retrospective in the ship's library.

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for their entertainment, with acts like Second City, Blue Man Group and others gracing the stages onboard.   The Rockettes is the perfect addition to the lineup for a ship that makes New York its home.

 

Iron Chef Christens New Ship

Photo courtesy Oceania Cruises

Oceania Riviera

Christened in Spain

by Iron Chef Cat Cora

Barcelona, Spain was the site Friday for the traditional Christening Ceremony for Oceania Riviera. Iron Chef Cat Cora, Godmother of the new ship, arrived onboard the ship Wednesday, where she was presented with a gift of a stunning diamond necklace and earrings during a luncheon attended by executives of Oceania Cruises.

In keeping with the nautical traditions, Godmother Cora reached for the jewel-studded lever and released a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin champagne, declaring...

“I name this ship Riviera. May God bless her and all who sail with her.”

Chef Cora was beaming as she approached the stage. “I want to say as the mother of four boys – finally I have a girl! And isn’t she a beauty!”

She went on to say how honored she was to be joining the Oceania Cruises family. “I couldn’t be more thrilled. With the Oceania family I feel like I share so many of their values: loyalty, friendship, and excellence as well as the best of travel, food and wine. I want to thank Frank, Bob and Kunal as well as…all of the hundreds of crew members that are the soul of this ship and that will be making me proud as it sails around the world.”

This naming ceremony had a Spanish flare with the port decked in the vibrant reds and yellows of Catalonia. Flamenco dancers and Spanish guitarists were on hand to entertain those fortunate to be present for the event.  See Oceania Cruises photo album, #Riviera's Christening in Barcelona, for more pictures of the Christening.   Congratulations on the launch of another beautiful luxury ship.

Ship Specifications

---

Riviera: Debuts in 2012 Tonnage: 66,084 Length: 785 feet Beam: 106 feet Maximum Draught: 24 feet Stabilizers: Yes Cruising Speed: 20 knots Guest Decks: 11

Total Decks: 15 Electric Power or Voltage: 110, 220 AC Guest Capacity: 1,250 (Double Occupancy) Staff Size: 800 Guest to Staff Ratio: 1.57 to 1 Nationality of Officers: European Nationality of Staff: International Country of Registry: Marshall Island

Viking Longboats Christened

Garlands of red & white balloons, what seemed like acres of red carpet, 
some fireworks, a pirouetting fireboat spraying water jets
 & a tenor belting out "Nessun Dorma" before a crowd of 600...
 the Viking Longships are here!

Viking River Christens 4 New Longboats in Amsterdam  (Courtesy Viking River)

Historic Christening 

Four Viking River Longships

In One Day

As we reported in our Viking River Cruises Longships Update, two of the ships are still under construction and will debut mid-April.

Amsterdam Ceremony

(March 21, 2012) Garlands of red & white balloons, what seemed like acres of red carpet, some fireworks, a pirouetting fireboat spraying water jets & a tenor belting out "Nessun Dorma" before a crowd of 600... the Viking Longships are here!

The Viking River Cruises launch of four ships during a single ceremony, breaks the previous  record for multiple and simultaneous christenings (three), which it also held.

Viking Odin and Viking Idun, were named in Amsterdam and two, Viking Freya and Viking Njord, by live video link at the yard in Rostock, where they're being finished off for a mid-April debut. Four godmothers cut scarlet ribbons and four bottles of Veuve Cliquot, two in Amsterdam and two in Rostock, smashed to cheers of a 600-strong crowd gathered in Amsterdam under dazzling sunshine.

The Godmothers
 
Joanna Lumley (left), star of "Absolutely Fabulous," christened Viking Odin, a ship named after the chief god of Norse mythology. "I've never been godmother to a god before," she told the delighted crowd.

Gail Wiswedel (second from left), who named Viking Njord, was chosen because she's Viking's most travelled customer, having notched up 11 cruises (which goes to show how young river cruising really is, given that plenty of ocean-going passengers would consider nothing less than 30 as an impressive total).

Dr Lisa Randall (third from left), Viking Idun's godmother, is a respected theoretical physicist, a subject close to the heart of Viking's Norwegian founder, Torstein Hagen, who himself holds a degree in nuclear physics.

Award-winning TV producer Rebecca Eaton, who served as godmother for Viking Freya, heads up "Masterpiece Theatre," a company sponsored by Viking.

Christening Tradition

Shipbuilding is filled with tradition.  Wine poured upon the deck before a long voyage represents a libation to the gods which will bring good luck. "Christening" a ship by breaking a bottle of champagne across her bow at the time of launching arose from this practice.  Read more about Nautical Superstitions & Legends.

About the Longships

 

The four ships  which feature full balconies, indoor-outdoor dining and chic interiors, are pretty well sold out for the rest of the year. These are only the first in a series with eight more sisters coming. Two Longships, Viking Embla and Viking Aegir, will debut this summer, and six more are scheduled to hit the rivers in 2013.    (Also see:  Viking River Cruises 2012 Fleet Upgrades)

More Pictures:  Introducing the Viking Longships!

Carnival Magic Naming Ceremony

Carnival Magic Naming Ceremony  May 1, 2011

The Magic and Fun Begins Today in Venice

Venice, Italy was the sight of today's naming ceremony for the 100th vessel in the Carnival Corporation's fleet. The brand new Carnival Magic, sister ship to Carnival Dream, was christened today in accordance with maritime tradition.  This latest "Fun Ship" is 130,000 tons of fun.

Naming a godmother is a shipbuilding tradition that dates back to ancient times, and helps bring the ship good fortune. Someone who knows a thing or two about good fortune is Lindsey Wilkerson, a childhood cancer survivor who was treated at St. Jude, and now grown up, is a spokesperson and employee, helping the hospital in its mission to end childhood cancer. Carnival is a partner with St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital and thought it was fitting to have Lindsey be the godmother of Carnival Magic.

Photo Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line 
(Click to see more photos and read more about ceremony)

Carnival Magic - Now Sailing in Europe on its Maiden Voyage

Mary Hart Christens Oceania Marina

Oceania Marina Arrives in Miami - Courtesy Oceania Cruises

"May God Bless Marina and All Who Sail On Her"

Entertainment Tonight''s host, Mary Hart, was onhand in Miami to do the honors of christening Oceania Cruises newest ship, Marina.  She presided at the ceremony last weekend, saying of the opportunity, "It’s very exciting, and a bit humbling. ... I'm truly honored to serve as the Godmother for Marina -- she will be a very special ship."

The christening, which is part of maritime tradition, was held in conjunction with a lavish invitation-only gala ceremony which culminated with a 15-liter Nebuchadnezzar of champagne, custom-made by Armand de Brignac, crashing against the hull.

Marina, which set sail on its inaugural voyage to Nassau, Bahamas, is a 66,000 ton ship that can carry 1,250 guests. It has 10 dining areas, luxury boutiques and a full-service Canyon Ranch SpaClub.  It is a ship of firsts, featuring the first Bon Appétit Culinary Center, Master Chef Jacques Pépin’s first namesake restaurant at sea, Ralph Lauren Home-furnished Owner’s Suites, luxurious accommodations by Dakota Jackson, a Wine Spectator wine program and a Lalique grand stairway.

Watch the video to see what luxuries this mammoth ship has to offer and to find out what special Cartier gift Mary is given!  Spend time with Mary onboard Marina before the actual ceremony.

Click to watch video

Oceania Cruises’ new Marina arrived in Miami on February 4, after her maiden voyage from Barcelona. Following a short preview cruise, on February 8 she will depart on the first of two 18-day Panama Canal transits that visit San Francisco and San Diego, both new ports for Oceania Cruises. Marina then operates a 12-day Caribbean cruise, round-trip from Miami, departing March 16, before sailing along the U.S. Eastern Seaboard and on to Europe to begin her inaugural Mediterranean season.

Oasis of the Seas Naming Ceremony

NAMING CERMEONY STREAMING LIVE AT 5:30 pm Eastern TODAY
Seven Godmothers Video: Highlights from Naming Ceremony (click here)

SEVEN GODMOTHERS to PRESIDE OVER OASIS OF THE SEAS

Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, Royal Caribbean International will put a new twist on one of maritime’s longest standing traditions - the naming ceremony of Oasis of the Seas will have seven godmothers instead of the usual one.

Royal Caribbean has chosen seven extraordinary godmothers to represent the seven signature neighborhoods onboard Oasis of the Seas. According to RCI, each of the seven godmothers was chosen because they personify strength of character, exemplify the spirit of giving, and are role models for men, women and children alike.

The godmothers include:

• Gloria Estefan, world-renowned singer, songwriter, actor and author

• Michelle Kwan, the Olympic Games medalist

• Jane Seymore, a multiple Emmy and Golden Globe winning actor, as well as an Officer of the British Empire

• Dara Torres, twelve-time Olympic medalist

• Keshia Knight Pulliam, film and television actress

• Shawn Johnson, four-time medalist at the 2008 Olympic games for women’s gymnastics and cancer philanthropist

• Daisy Fuentes, international television personality and producer, beauty and fitness expert, and recognized role model for Latin-American women in the United States

For more details about these godmothers, see the official press release.

See my other posts about Oasis of the Seas. (use search feature in the right-hand navigation)

Carnival Dream Naming Ceremony

Carnival Dream Christening - Photo Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line

Watch Video

Carnival Dream Naming Ceremony

Thursday, November 12, 2009

On September 18, 200 Carnival Cruise Lines officially took delivery of its newest and largest ship, the 130,000-ton Carnival Dream. A traditional maritime handover ceremony was held at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.

Since that time, the Carnival Dream completed 3 Mediterranean cruises and a transatlantic crossing to New York City where the naming ceremony was held November 12th.

Senior Cruise Director John Heald and her godmother, actress Marcia Gay Harden, officially welcomed the newest and largest ship to the Carnival fleet with an uplifting and entertaining ceremony. Anytime that John Heald is involved, you can be sure there will be some lively entertainment.

Catch the video recap of that event here. Also, take a peek at the full day of celebration and fun-filled activities, featuring the Carnival Dream's godmother unveiling Carnival Cruise Line's big book of dreams . View pictures here

Your dreams can come true on Carnival Dream... Check out Carnival Dream Sailings