The maritime tradition of christening a boat is set to receive a star-studded update, with award-winning actress and performer, Hannah Waddingham serving as the official Godmother of Princess Cruises’ newest ‘Love Boat’, Sun Princess.
Best known for her Emmy-winning turn as Rebecca Walton in Ted Lasso, Hannah Waddingham joins a long list of esteemed Godmothers, including Princess Diana, Catherine, Princess of Wales, Audrey Hepburn and Sophia Loren, and will oversee the naming ceremony at the Port of Barcelona on 23 April 2024.
“We’re delighted to welcome the illuminous and elegant Hannah Waddingham to serve as Godmother for our sensational new Sun Princess,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president.
“Just like Sun Princess, she exudes sophistication, beauty and wonderment through her inspiring work as a talented and award-winning actress and performer. We’re truly honored Hannah will officially name our most impressive, luxurious and stunning Love Boat ever created, and join an esteemed group of Princess Godparents including members of the Royal family.”
The lucky boat in question is the Princess Cruises’ newest addition to the fleet – a 177,882-ton, 4300-guest engineering marvel known as Sun Princess. It officially started its inaugural cruise season on February 28, 2024, and is currently sailing its way through the Mediterranean.
Spacious venues are a hallmark of Princess ships, and the Sun Princess is no different, elevating cruise design to levels not seen on the sea before. Expect eye-catching experience venues such as The Dome, a glass-enclosed structure at the top of the ship inspired by the iconic Santorini villages. The outward and suspended Sphere Atrium moves the central Piazza hub of the ship into places not yet seen on a cruise ship, with expansive ocean views and an open living concept.
No-one will be going hungry on the Sun Princess, with more than 30 restaurants and bars on board, including the immersive Spellbound by Magic Castle, a steakhouse from world-renowned butcher, Dario Cecchini, and one-of-a-kind cocktails courtesy of Good Spirits at Sea with Rob Floyd. The cruise line’s largest on-board casino, showrooms dedicated to luxury watches from TAG Heuer and Breitling and Park19, an activity zone for the whole family, are just some of the new experiences found amongst its 21 decks.
After Hannah’s ceremonial blessing, the Sun Princess will make its way to Florida in preparation for its first season sailing around the sun-kissed Caribbean, starting in October.
Featured image: Sun Princess. Source: Princess Cruises.
