LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM–(Marketwire – Nov. 30, 2010) – Royal Caribbean International made maritime history at the official naming ceremony for the world’s largest and most revolutionary cruise ship, Allure of the Seas, when the larger-than-life godmother was unveiled as Princess Fiona.
This is the first time that a 3-D animated character has been named the godmother of a cruise ship. The 3-D star of DreamWorks Animation’s film series, “Shrek,” presided over the celebration, interacting in 3-D with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.’s Chairman and CEO, Richard D. Fain, during the ceremony.
“It’s never easy choosing the right godmother, but we realised we had the perfect candidate right in front of us. We felt such a unique ship deserved a unique godmother and Princess Fiona symbolises the fun and entertainment that is so extraordinary on Allure of the Seas,” said Fain.
Attended by approximately 3,500 guests, the event was part of a one-night inaugural celebration-fundraiser, benefiting the charity, United Way of Miami, Haitian relief efforts and other charity partners. The naming ceremony took place in Allure of the Seas’ main Amber Theater and was broadcasted live throughout the ship, as well as via streaming video on the internet. The ceremony included the customary bagpipe-and-drums procession; the U.S. national anthem performed by international recording artist and West End and Broadway-star MiG Ayesa, and a scene from Royal Caribbean Productions’ new aerial production Blue Planet. The ceremony culminated with the traditional breaking of a Champagne bottle; featuring a festive label specially created by pop-artist Romero Britto on the ship’s hull, electronically activated by one swift karate-chop by Princess Fiona herself. Video of the event is available on the ship’s dedicated website, www.allureoftheseas.com.
With a cache of distinct new on-board activities and amenities, Allure of the Seas offers one-of-a-kind entertainment performances, culinary concepts, retail venues and technology innovations. An architectural marvel at sea, Allure’s neighbourhoods are divided into seven distinct themed areas, which include Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Entertainment Place and Youth Zone. She spans 16 decks, encompasses 225,282 gross registered tons, carries 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and features 2,700 staterooms. Allure of the Seas alternates a Western Caribbean with an Eastern Caribbean seven-night itinerary from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Additional information is available at www.allureoftheseas.com.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 22 ships currently in service. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand. For additional information or to make reservations, call your travel agent, visit www.royalcaribbean.co.uk or call 0844 493 2061. Travel professionals should go to www.cruisingpower.co.uk.