Why Do Cruise Ships Have Godmothers?

A Godmother’s Role

The maritime tradition of christening a new ship dates back thousands of years. But it was not until the mid-19th century that the French and British navies began the tradition of inviting women to perform the christening ceremony. Today, it is a well-established custom for cruise ships to have godmothers. But why?

A cruise ship’s godmother is a female dignitary who is invited to take part in the vessel’s naming ceremony. During the ceremony, the godmother officially names the ship and offers a blessing of good fortune and safe passage for the vessel, its crew, and its passengers. She then breaks a bottle of champagne against the hull, which officially completes the naming.

Princess Kate, Godmother of Royal Princess (left) | Photo Credit: Getty Images

Lionel Messi, Godfather of Icon of the Seas (right) | Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean

Notable Godmothers

Over the years, many famous women have served as godmothers to cruise ships. Some notable godmothers include:

• Queen Elizabeth II christened the Queen Elizabeth 2 in 1967 and the Queen Mary 2 in 2004.

• Sophia Loren has been the godmother to more MSC Cruises ships than any other woman, with 16 ships to her name.

• Mariah Carey christened the Disney Fantasy in 2012.

• Catherine, Princess of Wales back in 2013, Kate christened the Royal Princess.

Tradition Continues Today

The tradition of cruise ship godmothers continues to this day, as it adds a touch of glamour and tradition to the ship’s launch and is a special way to wish the vessel and all who sail on her a safe and prosperous journey. In more recent history, the role of the “godmother” has become the “godparent”, as both men and women can be named as a godparent of a ship.

Booking Your Cruise

Now that you are ready to book your cruise, reach out to the experts at Harr Travel. We know the ships inside-and-out, and have an amazing relationship with many cruise lines in the industry. Our advisors will craft the cruise vacation of a lifetime for you, your friends, family, or group at an exceptional rate, and give you the Harr Travel signature service every step of the way.