Norwegian Cruise Line announced on Friday, June 23, 2023, that Grammy nominated, and five time Latin Grammy winning singer, songwriter, musician and producer, Luis Fonsi, will serve as godfather of the cruise line’s newest ship, Norwegian Viva. Norwegian Viva is the second ship of Norwegian’s Prima Class.
Best known for his list of radio hits, most notably “Despacito” which was featured on Billboard’s Hot Latin Song list for a record-breaking 56 weeks, Puerto Rican born Fonsi will officiate the christening ceremony taking place in Miami on November 28, 2023.
“We are thrilled to welcome Latin music icon Luis Fonsi to the NCL family as Godfather of Norwegian Viva and to join us as we christen our newest ship,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Miami, our hometown, is immersed in Latin culture, and we want to celebrate Norwegian Viva’s debut with an infusion of Latin talent headlined by Luis. As a native Puerto Rican, who is also based in Miami, he brings people together from around the world with his energy, positivity and music, making him the perfect complement to the vibrant energy of Norwegian Viva. We cannot wait for him to join us as we celebrate this milestone moment later this year.”
After the ceremonial breaking of the champagne bottle on the ship’s bow, the “Live It Up” theme of Norwegian Viva will continue with a lineup of Latin entertainers joining Fonsi and delivering exclusive performances throughout the night. Performers will include The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; “Saturday Night Live” cast member and Miami-native, Marcello Hernandez; and singer, Pedro Capó.
“I am so honored to be named Godfather of NCL’s newest ship, Norwegian Viva, and look forward to sharing her with the amazing people of Puerto Rico, a community that truly represents the spirit of ‘live it up,’” said Fonsi. “Growing up on an island, the ocean plays such an important part in my life, and there is nowhere else I’d rather be. Cruising provides such an incredible vacation experience, and I cannot wait to christen this incredible ship and to introduce her to the world.”
Norwegian Viva will be the newest ship to home port in San Juan, Puerto Rico once she arrives on December 15, 2023. She will offer a variety of Caribbean itineraries through April 2024.