According to The Telegraph, Dame Helen Mirren is to become the godmother of Scenic Eclipse, an luxury exploration ship, when it is christened in New York on September 10. The Oscar-winning actress was previously a godmother for P&O’s Ventura, back in 2008. Traditionally the figurative presence of a godmother at a ship’s naming ceremony brings good luck for future sailings, and Scenic will be hoping Mirren will do exactly that, after the run-up to Eclipse’s launch was beset by delays. The ship’s maiden voyage was originally due to take place in August 2018 but financial woes at the Uljanik construction yard in Croatia, where the ship was being built, scuppered the line’s plans. Workers went on strike after their salaries were not paid. The delays caused the first voyage to be pushed back to January this year, and then to April. Now Scenic Eclipse is due to sail on August 15, from Reykjavik to Quebec, nearly a year later than first planned. “Scenic Eclipse is a unique ship that requires an equally unique person to act in this role,” said Glen Moroney, founder and chief executive of Scenic. “Dame Helen Mirren’s style, beauty and spirit of adventure are true to those embodied in the design and ethos of Scenic Eclipse. Combined with the international acclaim as one of the world’s finest actresses, Helen Mirren makes the perfect godmother to figuratively preside over the ship and bring good fortune.” Billed as the World’s First Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse will have 114 suites, 10 dining options, a gym, a spa, and a yoga studio, plus two six-person helicopters and one six-person submarine. Butler service will be on offer for all guests, with an almost 1:1 guest-staff ratio. The godmother is responsible for breaking the champagne against the ship’s hull. Dame Helen Mirren said: “I am very honoured to have been chosen as the Godmother to such a beautiful vessel as Scenic Eclipse. She will have many adventures and a wonderful life as she transports her guests in immaculate style and great safety to beautiful places.”
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