Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas was officially christened at Port Canaveral Friday evening.
Cruise line executives, VIPs and media were all in attendance for the official naming. Onboard guests were able to preview shows, enjoy divers in the AquaTheater, watch aerialists and listen to live music. The traditional bagpipe performance for the godmother procession was played by the Mount Dora Pipe Band.
The ship’s godmother, #SearchForWonderMom TikTok contest winner Marie McCrea, along with other finalists were on hand for the naming ceremony as well. McCrea had been nominated by her daughter as an inspirational mom, wife and cancer survivor. McCrea was chosen from over 16,000 entries for her resilience and spirit.
“I was in awe of all the incredible stories of the everyday heroes who are motivating those around them to discover, wonder and make memories,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “Marie and her family have a heartening and encouraging story that made us cry and rejoice and hopeful, and throughout it all, she inspired wonder and adventure in those around her.”
After the ceremony which included the national anthem and a blessing for the ship, crew and those who will sail on Wonder of the Seas, Marie McCrea christened the ship with the world’s largest bottle of champagne.
If it seems like this naming ceremony has been a long time coming, it has. Most ships are named within weeks of a ship first sailing, but Wonder of the Seas has been sailing for almost nine months. This may be due to Royal Caribbean giving a little more post pandemic time in an attempt to ensure as many guests could come as we’re interested.
Now that Wonder of the Seas has been christened her season can begin. The majority of her Eatern and Western Caribbean voyages will be 7-night sailings. She will sail from her home port of Port Canaveral year round through spring 2024.