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Oprah Winfrey has been announced as godmother of Nieuw Statendam, the newest ship in the Holland America fleet. The premium cruise line says it’s a perfect match which celebrates their shared belief in the transformative power of travel.
The 2650-guest Nieuw Statendam is a sister ship to Koningsdam and the second of HAL’s Pinnacle-class cruise ships. The official dedication will take place in a private ceremony at a date to be announced, but guests will have the chance to meet Ms. Winfrey on board during the Girls’ Getaway cruise on 30 January 2019.
An artists impression of Nieuw Statendam which will debut in late 2018.
Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line was thrilled to announce Oprah as Nieuw Statendam godmother. “We’re deeply honored that Oprah will serve as godmother of Nieuw Statendam”, he said. Mr. Ashford also explained the history of ship godmothers. “The time-honored maritime tradition of choosing a godmother for a new vessel dates back more than 4,000 years and is revered as important in bringing good luck and protection to the ship and all who sail on board”.
These days most cruise ship godmothers are famous women. West End star Elaine Paige officially launched Seabourn Ovation in May 2018. Sophia Loren is godmother to all the ships in the MSC Cruises fleet. Even Queen Elizabeth II is a cruise ship godmother, having christened P&O Cruises Britannia.
The Girl’s Getaway cruise on Nieuw Statendam is a partnership with O, The Oprah Magazine. Oprah will embark on the 3-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, together with her close friend and magazine editor Gayle King, to host special events on board.
Oprah Winfrey, the Nieuw Statendam godmother, will be joined on board by Gayle King.
Winfrey will share highlights of her career, inspirational stories of the amazing women she has met over the years, and the desire for this cruise to be the start of something meaningful for those on board. King will join Winfrey on stage for a candid and entertaining chat that shows the deep bond between these two best friends.
For more information about the announcement of Oprah as Nieuw Statendam godmother and the Girl’s Getaway cruise visit the HAL website.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
