Travelmarvel’s European team officially welcomed the latest ship to the premium river cruise operator’s fleet recently, holding a special renaming ceremony in Köln, Germany, for the newly refurbished vessel.
The special event was attended by a party of some 100 VIPs and guests including the ship’s Captain Volodymyr Tugayev and Travelmarvel’s Director of Operations in Europe and Russia Trish Bannon, all of whom enjoyed an on-deck reception prior to the ceremony.
Ship christenings originated more than 4,000 years ago. A respected and well-known woman is selected to serve as a new ship’s honorary ‘godmother’, entrusted with blessing the vessel to ensure the safety of its passengers and crew. In the case of a refurbished vessel, the ship is renamed rather than christened.
Travelmarvel Sapphire’s godmother is the company’s Vice President Sales & Marketing North America, UK & Europe, Nicole De Wilde. Commenting on the special renaming ceremony, she said, “I was thrilled to be asked to be godmother to Travelmarvel Sapphire, especially given the importance of the ceremony to those who serve onboard the vessel. It was a really special day and I am proud to be associated with this outstanding ship and her crew.”
The Reverend Andrew Sillis, Chaplain of St Boniface Bonn and All Saints in Cologne, blessed the vessel, before the ship was christened in time honoured tradition with a bottle of Champagne broken against the ship’s hull.
Following the ceremony guests enjoyed a panoramic cruise and Gala Dinner in the ship’s restaurant.
The Travelmarvel Sapphire is 135-feet in length and has capacity for 164 guests. All category C cabins and above offer French Balconies, with Owner’s Suites measuring 232 sq.ft. Other facilities include a dining room, bar and lounge; sun deck, fitness room and hair salon. Guests also enjoy gourmet dining with all meals on board included, along with local wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Also included in the price of all Travelmarvel Sapphire cruises are small group shore excursions with local guides, port charges and gratuities.
For further information on Travelmarvel’s European River Cruising call 1300 196 420, visit travelmarvel.com.au or see your local travel agent.
SOURCE Travelmarvel