Royal Caribbean has a longstanding tradition of appointing remarkable godmothers to its ships, a role often filled by influential and inspiring figures. The latest to join this distinguished list is research astronaut and science communicator Kellie Gerardi, who has been named the godmother of the cruise line’s newest ship, Star of the Seas.
Kellie Gerardi : Royal Caribbean’s Newest Godmother & Her Star-Studded And Inspirational Predecessors
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Her appointment brings a fresh, modern twist to the tradition, celebrating exploration in every sense. Let’s take a look at some of the other famous and inspiring people who have been honoured as Royal Caribbean godparents.
A ship godparent is a ceremonial position rooted in maritime tradition. The godparent’s primary duty is to bless the ship, bestowing good luck and safe travels upon it and its passengers. This role is akin to a christening, with the godmother often breaking a champagne bottle against the ship’s hull to mark its official launch.
Star of the Seas Godmother Kellie Gerardi
Royal Caribbean chose research astronaut and acclaimed science communicator Kellie Gerardi as the godmother of Star of the Seas, giving the ship a uniquely modern and inspiring guardian.
Gerardi, known for her pioneering work in human spaceflight and her mission to make STEM accessible to families, brings a sense of exploration that mirrors the ship’s own forward-thinking design. Her appointment blends the cruise line’s maritime traditions with a fresh spirit of discovery, making her the perfect figurehead for a vessel built to capture the imagination of travellers of all ages.
Utopia of the Seas: Meghan Trainor
Meghan Trainor is an American singer-songwriter and television personality. She gained prominence with her debut single “All About That Bass,” which topped the charts and brought attention to her retro style and empowering messages. Trainor has since released multiple successful albums and won several awards, including a Grammy.
Icon of the Seas: Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is an Argentine professional footballer widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. Messi has won numerous awards, including seven Ballon d’Or titles, and has broken multiple records throughout his career. He played most of his career at FC Barcelona before moving to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Wonder of the Seas: Marie McCrea
Marie McCrea was nominated by her daughter as a “wonder mum.” Her recognition as godmother highlights the everyday heroism of mothers who make significant contributions to their families and communities. Nominated by her daughter, Marie is a devoted mother, wife and cancer survivor who has overcome adversity with incredible strength.
Odyssey of the Seas: Erin Brown
Erin Brown is the Bahamas’ first paratriathlete to compete in the Paralympic Games qualifiers. She is a motivational speaker and advocate for athletes with disabilities, inspiring many with her perseverance and achievements in sports.
Spectrum of the Seas: Angelababy and Xiaoming Huang
Angelababy (Angela Yeung Wing) is a Chinese model, actress, and singer known for her work in various films and television series. She is also a fashion icon and entrepreneur. Xiaoming Huang is a Chinese actor renowned for his roles in numerous Chinese dramas and films.
Symphony of the Seas: Carlos and Alexa PenaVega, and their son Ocean
Carlos PenaVega and Alexa PenaVega are actors and singers. Carlos is known for his role in the TV series “Big Time Rush,” and Alexa is known for her role in “Spy Kids.” Their son, Ocean, joined them in representing the family-oriented spirit of the ship.
Harmony of the Seas: Brittany Affolter
Brittany Affolter is an educational hero recognised for her significant contributions to education. She has impacted the lives of many students through her dedication and innovative teaching methods.
Ovation of the Seas: Fan Bingbing
Fan Bingbing is a Chinese actress, model, and singer who has gained international fame for her roles in various films and television series. She is also known for her fashion sense and philanthropic efforts.
Anthem of the Seas: Emma Wilby
Emma Wilby is a British travel agent who was honoured for her dedication and exceptional service in the travel industry. Wilby was selected for the honour in a singing competition for travel agents.
Quantum of the Seas: Kristin Chenoweth
Kristin Chenoweth is an American actress and singer best known for originating the role of Glinda the Good Witch in the Broadway smash hit Wicked. Her celebrated career spans musical theatre, television, and film, earning her a Tony Award for You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and an Emmy Award for Pushing Daisies.
Allure of the Seas: Princess Fiona
Princess Fiona is a fictional character from the “Shrek” film series. As an ogre princess, she is known for her strength, independence, and caring nature, making her an inspiring and whimsical godmother.
Oasis of the Seas: Multiple Godmothers
Shawn Johnson, Daisy Fuentes, Jane Seymour, Michelle Kwan, Gloria Estefan, Dara Torres, and Keshia Knight Pulliam were all chosen as godmothers. Each of these women is accomplished in their respective fields, ranging from sports and entertainment to music and television.
Here’s More Godparents of the Royal Caribbean Fleet
- Independence of the Seas: Elizabeth Hill, chosen for her outstanding contribution to her local community, demonstrating the ship’s values of service and dedication.
- Liberty of the Seas: Donnalea Madeley, a Toronto-based travel agent, is recognised for her exceptional service and commitment to the travel industry.
- Freedom of the Seas: Katherine Louise Calder, a foster mother known for her extraordinary dedication to caring for children in need, embodying compassion and generosity.
- Jewel of the Seas: Kathy Mellor, was named the 2004 National Teacher of the Year in the United States, celebrated for her excellence in education and positive impact on students.
- Mariner of the Seas: Jean Driscoll, an American Paralympic athlete who has won numerous medals in wheelchair racing. She is an advocate for athletes with disabilities and a motivational speaker.
- Serenade of the Seas: Whoopi Goldberg, an American actress, comedian, author, and television host. She is one of the few entertainers to have won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony Award (EGOT).
- Navigator of the Seas: Stefanie Graf, a former professional tennis player from Germany. She won 22 Grand Slam singles titles and is regarded as one of the greatest female tennis players of all time.
- Brilliance of the Seas: Marilyn Ofer, known for her philanthropy and contributions to various charitable causes, representing the values of kindness and generosity.
There Are Some Real Heroes in Here
- Adventure of the Seas: Multiple Heroes,Tara Stackpole, Kevin Hannafin, Margaret McDonnell, and Richard Lucas were honoured for their heroism and dedication as members of the New York Fire Department and New York Police Department.
- Radiance of the Seas: Margot L. Pritzker, known for her philanthropic efforts and support of education and cultural initiatives.
- Explorer of the Seas: Jackie Joyner-Kersee, an American athlete who is considered one of the greatest female track and field athletes. She has won six Olympic medals, including three golds.
- Voyager of the Seas: Katarina Witt, a former figure skater from Germany who won two Olympic gold medals and is celebrated for her athletic achievements and contributions to the sport.
And Some Royal Wives
- Vision of the Seas: Helen Morin Stephan, the wife of Edwin Stephan, the previous owner of Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, and is recognised for her support and contributions to the company.
- Enchantment of the Seas: Colleen Fain, the wife of Royal Caribbean Ltd Chairman Richard Fain, known for her support and involvement in the cruise line’s activities.
- Rhapsody of the Seas: Bodil Wilhelmsen, the wife of Gjert Wilhelmsen, who was a principal stockholder in Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, contributing to the company’s growth and success.
- Grandeur of the Seas: Aviva Ofer, the wife of Sammy Ofer and mother of Eyal Ofer, a member of Royal Caribbean’s Board of Directors, is recognised for her support and contributions to the company.
