What Cruise Ship Godparents Say About the Vacation Vibe

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Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas cruise ship at dock
Icon of the Seas. Photo credit: Cristine Struble

Selecting a cruise ship is about more than just itinerary; it’s also about the values and experiences embodied by the ship’s godparents. Aligning your selection with the ship’s godparents ensures a journey that reflects not just destinations but a rich narrative and engaging atmosphere throughout your cruise.

Why Godparents Matter

  • Symbol of Character: The godparents often represent notable figures who embody the spirit and ambiance of the cruise line, influencing the overall experience onboard.
  • Cultural Connection: Godparents bring a sense of heritage and tradition, offering insights into what you can expect during your journey, from entertainment to dining options.
  • Personalized Vibe: Choosing a ship linked to godparents that resonate with your interests—whether they bring glamour, fun, or adventure—can enhance your cruise experience and make it more memorable.

The Sun Princess docked in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Sun Princess docked in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Photo credit: Rose Palmer

Before I plunge down the fastest slide at sea or raise a toast to the ultimate pool day, it requires a big decision. Instead of itineraries and destinations, I focus on the vacation vibe. Pushing aside slick marketing campaigns, the ship’s history, specifically the godparents, helps me pick my next escape.

Recently, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line launched new ships. Godparents celebrate maritime tradition by christening the ship and wishing it safe travel. Beyond just a moment in time, that decision reveals the ship’s ambiance and vibe.

Whether I want a multi-generational getaway, a romantic escape or a little bit of everything, a deep dive into the godparents tells me more than another drink package or excursions list. It is the aspirational guide to what I can expect on board.

Royal Caribbean Celebrates All the Generations

Royal Caribbean ship at dock
Royal Caribbean cruise ship. Photo credit: Cristine Struble

Cruise Ship Godparents for Royal Caribbean

  • Pop icon Meghan TrainerUtopia of the Seas
  • Soccer legend Lionel MessiIcon of the Seas
  • Bahamian Paratriathlete Erin BrownOdyssey of the Seas
  • Actors Carlos and Alexa PenaVegaSymphony of the Seas

What These Godparents Represent

With entertainment packed into every corner, Royal Caribbean appeals to the multi-generational traveler; its recent godparent selections capture that demographic. Global superstars and game changers excite tweens as much as grandparents.

When pop icon Meghan Trainor christened the ship, she brought her family on board for the big event. That moment celebrates what is at the heart of every Royal Caribbean vacation: there is something for everyone on board. When I want to “Wrap Up” the ultimate vacation, Royal Caribbean delivers.

Princess Cruises’ Godparents Elevate Romance at Sea

Princess Cruises logo in atrium
Princess Cruises heart. Photo credit: Cristine Struble

Cruise Ship Godparents for Princess Cruises

  • Oscar-winner Matthew McConaughey and his wife, CamilaStar Princess
  • Actor Hannah WaddinghamEnchanted Princess
  • Princess DianaRoyal Princess
  • Hollywood legend Audrey HepburnStar Princess (1989)

What These Godparents Represent

While Princess Cruises will always be tied to the original “Love Boat,” that sense of romanticism is more than just swooning over someone special. When I think about movie stars, they convey old school glamour, tradition and sophistication. Princess Cruises’ godparents epitomize that concept and inspire me to step into that stunning escape.

For example, Camila and Matthew McConaughey are the godparents for the highly anticipated Star Princess. Although my husband and I may not be red-carpet-ready, we are excited to toast to our golden relationship goals with the Pantalones tequila 24K Gold Margarita. Those “I Love That” sentiments from the vacation are always with us.

Celebrity Cruises’ Godparents Honor Determination

Celebrity Beyond outdoor space
Celebrity Beyond. Photo credit: Cristine Struble

Cruise Ship Godparents for Celebrity Cruises

  • Renowned chef Janiana TorresCelebrity Xcel
  • Superyacht Captain Sandy Yawn and her sister, autism advocate Michelle DunhamCelebrity Ascent
  • Olympic gymnast Simone BilesCelebrity Beyond
  • Human rights activist Malala Yousafzai Celebrity Edge

What These Godparents Represent

Long before I rode the Magic Carpet while gazing at the waves, my decision to book a Celebrity Cruises vacation focused on seeking the unexpected. Looking back at the recent godmothers, these women epitomize strength, determination and the journey to a fulfilled life.

My time on board a Celebrity Cruises ship encourages me to explore, create my own adventure and seek the unexpected. The godmothers epitomize those sentiments. From trying a new dish at dinner to allowing the mind to wander while staring at the horizon, no other experience comes close to this vacation.

Norwegian Cruise Line Captures Individual Personality

Norwegian Prima
Norwegian Prima. Photo credit: Cristine Struble

Cruise Ship Godparents for Norwegian Cruise Line

  • Actor Eric StonestreetNorwegian Aqua
  • Puerto Rican singer Luis FonsiNorwegian Viva
  • Pop icon Katy PerryNorwegian Prima
  • Singer and talk show host Kelly ClarksonNorwegian Encore

What These Godparents Represent

Instead of finding a common thread among the Norwegian Cruise Line, I look at this list as the epitome of what NCL offers: the freedom to do it all on board these cruise ships. Diversity, individuality and self-expression are all concepts woven into every vacation moment.

For example, I can speed around the racetrack then race to enjoy global flavors at Food Republic. Everything is possible. More importantly, I can choose to change my approach when the whim moves me. Yes, I can “roar” to a great adventure or “take it slow” through the cruise vacation.

Virgin Voyages Makes Its Own Traditions

champagne cocktail with Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages welcome cocktail. Photo credit: Cristine Struble

Virgin Voyages Chief Entertainment and Lifestyle Officer

  • Actor and singer Jennifer Lopez

Why Does Virgin Voyages Not Have a Traditional Godparent?

From the first moment that I stepped on board, I knew Virgin Voyages was not a traditional cruise ship. Joining my fellow sailors, I filled my champagne glass and toasted to a bigger, bolder vacation experience.

By having a Chief Entertainment and Lifestyle Officer, Virgin Voyages focuses on experiential. In a single day, I can do a spin class at sunrise and shimmy to hot dance beats under the moonlight. Jennifer Lopez epitomizes that all-encompassing woman who is determined, self-reliant and unafraid to try something new. When I want to “Get Loud,” Virgin Voyages is the choice to let my inhibitions free.

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A highly regarded food journalist for over 10 years, I have covered all aspects of food and travel. From food trends to traveling the world for the must try cuisine, I appreciate that food and culture are always intertwined. From covering chef interviews to the food innovations, I use my extensive knowledge to bring people together around the love of a great meal. Many of my articles have been featured in various industry publications, television commercials, and food brand websites. Over the past several years, I have been named a top 10 food and travel journalist by media publications and am considered an authority within the food journalism niche. Follow me on social media at @StrublePublications or @CristineStruble to check out what is on my plate, food travel discovery, and fun adventures.
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