It’s been a longstanding maritime tradition dating back to the Babylonians, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans for new ships to be sponsored by an important person. In ancient times gods would be called upon to bless a ship with sacrificial blood and wine to keep the seamen safe during their voyages.
In more recent history the honor was traditionally extended to female royalty. Nowadays it’s become customary for celebrities to bestow good luck and protection upon a new ship and all who sail on her.
The duties of a godmother are simple: godmothers attend the ship’s ceremonial launch and naming ceremony at which they bless and officially name the ship. During the ceremony the ship is also christened by cracking a bottle of champagne on the hull.
Top 7 favorite Norwegian Cruise Line godmothers
Kim Cattrall – perhaps better known as Samantha from the hit series Sex and the City – is the first godmother in our top 7 favorite Norwegian Cruise Line godmothers. The glamorous New York-lifestyle that she portrayed on both television and the silver screen is a perfect fit with Norwegian Dawn. The ship features the exclusive Garden Villas. These luxurious suites contain comfortable king or queen beds, separate living and dining areas, luxurious bathrooms and private balconies. To top it off, guests in all Garden Villas have a certified butler and concierge service at their disposal.
The Queen of Country Music, Reba McIntire, christened Norwegian Epic 10 years ago. Since then the ship has visited the most special destinations in the world. In addition to dedicated studios for solo travelers and world-class entertainment – such as the fabulous Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Norwegian Epic is equipped with a spa that offers more than 50 treatments.
Why choose only 1 godmother when you can get a whole group of inspiring ladies? So in 2013, the dancers of the iconic New York group The Rockettes were named the godmothers of Norwegian Breakaway. Since The Rockettes are synonymous with top entertainment, the ship they are attached to is of course not inferior to this. Guests on board Norwegian Breakaway have the opportunity to attend the sensational Broadway hit Burn the Floor. And as if that’s not enough, the dinner show Velvet features some of the most special circus acrobats. The musical Six, added in 2019, shows all girl power; a perfect match with The Rockettes.
In 2014 the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders had the honor of becoming godmother to Norwegian Getaway. As Miami’s ultimate ship she features a whimsical mermaid holding the sun above the waves. Getaway is the first ship to feature the GRAMMY Experience at Sea, which includes artifacts chosen and curated by the GRAMMY Museum. Another first of its kind at sea is The Illusionarium, a dining and entertainment experience which takes guests into the fascinating world of magic
Norwegian Encore, the newest and most phenomenal ship in the fleet, naturally calls for a great godmother. Who better than the world-famous singer, talk show host and GRAMMY Award winner Kelly Clarkson. Not only the ship and her godmother are very special, life on board is also unrivaled. Whether you whip around the largest race track at sea, attend the Tony Award-winning musical Kinky Boots or tantalize your taste buds in one of the mouth-watering restaurants, Norwegian Encore is designed to make the most unforgettable moments become reality.
Norwegian Cruise Lines of course likes to do things slightly differently. So where godmothers are usually women, in 2015 rapper Pitbull became the first godfather of a cruise ship. Nicknamed “Mr Worldwide”, he is a perfect match for Norwegian Escape. With 14 Bars & Lounges and more than 25 Dining Experiences, the ship is the perfect place to wine and dine while sailing the seven seas. In 2017 Pitbull was joined by radio host Elvis Duran who became godfather to Norwegian Bliss.
Free at Sea
When you book your next holiday now, you save big with NCL’s Take All sale. Choose any breathtaking destination on any ship, sailing in 2021 or later, and receive all Free at Sea Upgrade Packages for one low fee based on cruise duration. The Free at Sea packages include: a beverage package (spirits and cocktails, wines, draft beer, juice and soda), a speciality dining package, an internet package, $50 USD discount per port shore excursion, and 3rd & 4th guest sail for taxes only on select sailings. The price for the Free at Sea Package is €49 per person for cruises up to 6 days, €99 per person for 7-9 day cruises and €149 per person for cruises between 10 and 13 days. For cruises 14-17 days the price is €199 per person and €249 per person for cruises of 18 days and longer.