Celebrity Cruises’ newest and most luxurious ship, Celebrity Beyond, has launched from Fort Lauderdale, with some help from legendary US Olympian and ship’s godmother Simone Biles.
Ahead of its first sailing and inaugural Caribbean season, Biles helped launch the vessel at a naming ceremony in Florida.
Attended by 2,500 guests, the ceremony was capped by a live performance from award-winning singer and songwriter, Leona Lewis.
Biles is a seven-time Olympic medalist and the most decorated American gymnast in history.
“It is an honour to be selected as Beyond’s Godmother and to join such a distinguished group of strong, barrier-breaking women who have been named as Celebrity’s Godmothers before me,” she said.
“I appreciate the important message this designation holds in recognising our accomplishments as empowering women, and I am honoured to share the stage today with fellow brave, boundary-breaking leaders like Lisa-Lutoff Perlo and Captain Kate McCue.”
Gymnastics G.O.A.T. meets Celebrity G.O.A.T.
Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, which is the parent company of Celebrity Cruises said, “I can think of no one better to be the Godmother of this incredible ship than the G.O.A.T. herself: Simone Biles.”
“This ship’s beauty, power, and resilience sets the standard by which all others will be measured. Simone’s determination, progressive nature, empowered attitude, and grace in the face of challenges make her such an inspiration to so many around the world.
“All of these attributes are why Simone Biles is perfectly suited to watch over Celebrity Beyond’s journey.”
Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo said she had been “waiting for this day to arrive for a long time and I am ‘Beyond’ excited to be able to share her with our guests”.
“She is the gold standard by which other ships are built and embodies the meaning of relaxed luxury,” she remarked.
“She is ‘FULL’ of wonder and excitement and our guests will undoubtedly feel reconnected to the world around them as they visit new destinations and immerse themselves in culinary experiences and wellness amenities not found anywhere else at sea.”
The third ship in the cruise line’s Edge Series, Beyond is helmed by Captain Kate McCue, who is the first and only woman to be named captain of a “mega” cruise ship.
Celebrity Beyond will rotate on Western and Eastern Caribbean itineraries and features among other luxury offerings, Michelin-starred dining and experiences and products by goop CEO and founder Gwyneth Paltrow, who is the brand’s Well-Being Advisor.
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Visit Celebrity Cruises for more information.
