Monday, February 26, 2024
In a dazzling event in Texas, the launch of Line’s latest marvel, the Carnival Jubilee, was celebrated with grandeur on a memorable Saturday. The festivities were heightened as the music icon Gwen Stefani was bestowed with the honor of being the ship’s godmother. The occasion was made even more special as Galveston Mayor Craig Brown proclaimed Feb. 24 as “Carnival Jubilee Day,” coinciding with the centennial of Ted Arison, the visionary founder of Carnival Cruise Line.
“We hold a very warm place in our hearts for Carnival Cruise Line because they initiated the entire cruise industry for the City of Galveston. They were the first and will always be first in our hearts,” said Brown.
Throughout the day, Stefani explored the ship, starting with a visit to the bridge to greet the captain and sounded the ship’s horn, followed by a ribbon-cutting spree at several attractions, including:
The day continued with a cocktail reception and a festive lunch, leading to a 45-minute naming ceremony in the theater. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, community figures, travel consultants, business affiliates, and Carnival enthusiasts. Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, highlighted the significance of Carnival Jubilee being the first brand-new ship stationed in Galveston and its christening there, expressing gratitude to the Galveston community for their unwavering support and designating Galveston as the eternal home for Carnival Jubilee, symbolized by the embossed Texas star on the ship’s bow.
The event also served to underscore Carnival’s commitment to philanthropy, with Duffy revealing that after achieving its $33 million fundraising target for St. Jude by 2024, the company aims to raise $50 million by 2030. Additionally, a unique pair of Carnival Jubilee-themed cowboy boots crafted by Houston’s Parker Boot Co. were auctioned for $25,000, benefiting Operation Homefront in support of military families.
“I know she has been honored in so many ways for her music with numerous awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and now she has a ship!,” said Duffy as she introduced Stefani. “She’s also put giving back as an important focus in her life, especially to a number of children’s causes, so we are truly thrilled to have Gwen as the Godmother of our flagship Carnival Jubilee!”
The ceremony saw Stefani, alongside Duffy and Captain Stefano Bonica, officially christen the ship by releasing a champagne bottle against its bow using a lasso rope and lever. Following the christening, Stefani delighted attendees with a private performance featuring her chart-topping hits like “Just a Girl,” “The Sweet Escape,” and “Hollaback Girl.”
The Carnival Jubilee, now anchored year-round in Galveston, sets sail on week-long voyages to the Western Caribbean. It boasts the latest in liquefied natural gas (LNG) technology, accommodating 6,500 guests and 1,750 crew members. The ship is a floating celebration of the sea, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, thematic detailing, and unparalleled entertainment options, including a top-deck roller coaster and a resort-style sanctuary. Carnival recently announced the addition of a fourth Excel class sister ship to join the ranks of Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Celebration, and Mardi Gras in 2027.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
