In a spectacular celebration on Tuesday the 23rd of April 2024 at the Port of Barcelona, award-winning actress and performer Hannah Waddingham officially welcomed the newest and most innovative Princess Cruises ship, Sun Princess, serving as godmother during a star-studded naming ceremony.
The time-honoured maritime tradition took place onboard Sun Princess in the all-new Princess Arena and Waddingham, alongside the ship’s Captain Craig Street, joyously announced, “I name this ship Sun Princess. May God bless her and all who sail on her.” She then released the celebratory bottle of Champagne to smash against the ship wishing good fortune to all of the ship’s guests and crew sailing to incredible destinations all over the world.
“Hannah is globally admired and adorned for her immense talent and determination. Those qualities coupled with her family’s deep connection and love for the sea make her the perfect godmother for our sensational new Sun Princess,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “We are honoured that she has joined us for this pinnacle moment and that she will remain a treasured part of the ship’s legacy forever.”
Known for her adored role as Rebecca Welton in Ted Lasso, Waddingham said being named the godmother of Sun Princess was a pinch-me moment as she joins an esteemed group of women, including Audrey Hepburn (Star Princess, 1989), Sophia Loren (Crown Princess, 1990) and Martha Stewart (Crown Princess, 2006), among many other notable celebrities and dignitaries.
Waddingham grew up boating and has fond memories of weekends in Dunkirk. In addition, her grandfather served in the Royal Navy during World War II. “As much as theatre has always rippled through my bloodstream so too has a strong, historic familial connection with the Royal Navy and all things nautical,” said Waddingham. “I have, of course, seen over the years the iconic godmothers who have been asked to represent these magnificent ships and looked on in awe. It is, therefore, such a great privilege to have been asked to act as Godmother to the Sun Princess, the first of her class. I can’t quite believe it.”
Actor and magician Michael Carbonaro served as master of ceremonies for the event and was joined by a host of celebrities and TV personalities including Tyra Banks, Romero Britto, Randy Fenoli, Jeff Corwin and Rob Floyd, along with celebrated chefs Dario Cecchini, Makoto Okuwa and beloved original Love Boat cast members, Jill Whelan (Vicki Stubing), Ted Lange (Isaac) and Bernie Kopell (Doc).
In addition, Natasha Bedingfield was on hand to fittingly perform her smash hit Pocket Full of Sunshine, along with other award-winning hits including Unwritten.
