Hannah Waddingham has been appointed as Godmother for Princess Cruises

Monday, April 8, 2024

Renowned actress and performer Hannah Waddingham has been appointed as the esteemed Godmother of Princess Cruises’ latest vessel, the “Love Boat” Sun Princess, continuing a cherished maritime tradition. The grand naming ceremony is scheduled to grace the Port of Barcelona on April 23, 2024.

Waddingham joins an illustrious lineage of Godparents to Princess ships, including luminaries such as Diana, Princess of Wales (Royal Princess, 1984), Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales (Royal Princess, 2013), Audrey Hepburn (Star Princess, 1989), Sophia Loren (Crown Princess, 1990), and Martha Stewart (Crown Princess, 2006), among other distinguished personalities.

A celebrated British actress and vocalist, Waddingham has captured hearts with her portrayal of Rebecca Welton in Apple TV+’s acclaimed series “Ted Lasso,” earning her a Primetime Emmy, Critics Choice Television Award, and Screen Actors Guild Award, along with two individual Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations. Her next cinematic venture, the eagerly awaited Universal film “The Fall Guy,” starring alongside Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt, is set to hit theaters on May 3, 2024.

Earlier this year, Waddingham received a BAFTA TV Award nomination for her captivating performance in her own Apple TV+ holiday special “Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas.” She made her international hosting debut in April 2023 at The Olivier Awards (and is slated to return as host for the 2024 ceremony on April 14), followed swiftly by the BBC Eurovision Song Contest 2023. Her remarkable hosting skills earned her a second BAFTA TV nomination and the prestigious “Best Entertainment Performance” accolade from The Royal Television Society in 2024.

Waddingham’s future projects include lending her voice to the Sony Animation film “Garfield,” premiering on May 24, 2024, and starring in “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two,” slated for release in 2025.

“We’re delighted to welcome the illuminous and elegant Hannah Waddingham to serve as Godmother for our sensational new Sun Princess,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “Just like Sun Princess, she exudes sophistication, beauty and wonderment through her inspiring work as a talented and award-winning actress and performer. We’re truly honored Hannah will officially name our most impressive, luxurious and stunning Love Boat ever created, and join an esteemed group of Princess Godparents including members of the Royal family.”

The innovative Sun Princess, weighing 177,882 tons and accommodating 4,300 guests, marks a significant advancement in cruise ship design exclusively tailored for the renowned Princess Cruises brand. Commencing its inaugural cruise season on February 28, 2024, Sun Princess currently embarks on a series of Mediterranean voyages, with plans to debut in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., in October for its first Caribbean season.

Known for its spacious venues, Princess ships, including Sun Princess, push the boundaries further. Sun Princess introduces captivating new experience venues such as The Dome, an avant-garde geodesic, glass-enclosed structure atop the ship, inspired by the terraces of Santorini. The striking Sphere Atrium, suspended outwardly, redefines the central Piazza hub, offering guests expansive ocean views and an open-concept design, promoting a lifestyle of relaxed indoor-outdoor living.

Sun Princess offers an unparalleled cruise experience, boasting exceptional culinary delights, entertainment, and luxury accommodations:

The Ultimate Culinary Destination at Sea:
Featuring 30 enticing restaurant and bar venues curated by renowned collaborators, Sun Princess promises a gastronomic adventure. Highlights include:

• Spellbound by Magic Castle: A fusion of magic and culinary artistry, offering an immersive dining experience steeped in magic and adventure.
• Makoto Ocean: Redefining traditional sushi with inventive twists by Chef Makoto Okuwa, master of Edomae-style sushi.
• Love by Britto: A romantic boutique restaurant boasting panoramic views, celebrating love and art by renowned artist Romero Britto.
• The Butcher’s Block by Dario: A specialty pop-up restaurant by the legendary butcher Dario Cecchini, serving perfectly prepared beef and signature cuts.
• The Catch by Rudi: An exceptional dining concept by Chef Rudi Sodamin, showcasing delectable treasures from the sea.
• Good Spirits at Sea with Rob Floyd: Celebrity mixologist Rob Floyd presents destination-inspired, unique cocktail creations.

The ship also introduces a three-story dining room with stunning aft views, featuring inaugural menus crafted in collaboration with the Culinary Institute of America, alongside beloved favorites like Crown Grill, Sabatini’s, and Crooners, enhanced with new design elements.

Unforgettable Entertainment in State-of-the-Art Spaces:
The Princess Arena stands as the most technologically advanced theater at sea, hosting original productions and performances in the round. The Dome mesmerizes audiences with acrobatic Cirque Éloize performances, while the Piazza dazzles with a retractable stage and immersive Champagne Waterfall.

Elevated Areas & Accommodations:
Sun Princess flaunts the cruise company’s grandest casino, a two-story Lotus Spa, and an enhanced shopping area showcasing more than 200 top-tier brands, among them prestigious watchmakers such as TAG Heuer and Breitling. The ship introduces Park19, the first-ever family activity zone, spanning decks 19 to 21, offering multi-generational entertainment options, from the Sea Breeze glider ride to the Coastal Climb climbing structure.

Accommodations cater to diverse preferences, with over 1,500 cabins featuring balcony views. Sun Princess’ reimagined staterooms include exceptional suites and new Cabana Mini-Suites, offering additional space for outdoor relaxation.

Sustainable Innovation:
Rooted in sustainability, Sun Princess is the first LNG vessel for the cruise line, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The ship features ingenious energy recovery systems, ensuring eco-conscious cruising for environmentally aware travelers.

« Back to Page