Sun Princess Godmother Hannah Waddington helmed a celebrity christening celebration that included the original Love Boat cast, top chefs, TV hosts and a performance from “Pocketful of Sunshine” singer Natasha Bedingfield at the Port of Barcelona on 23 April 2024.
The official Sun Princess naming ceremony kicked off the maritime tradition in style as the acclaimed British actor smashed a bottle of Champagne against the ship to mark the occasion.
Ted Lasso actor Waddington has both a boating background and a naval family legacy, which Princess Cruises President John Padgett said made her the clear choice as godmother for its newest ship.
“Hannah is globally admired and adored for her immense talent and determination. Those qualities coupled with her family’s deep connection and love for the sea make her the perfect godmother for our sensational new Sun Princess.”
“We are honoured that she has joined us for this pinnacle moment and she will remain a treasured part of the ship’s legacy forever.”
Waddington said: “As much as theatre has always rippled through my bloodstream so too has a strong, historic familial connection with the Royal Navy and all things nautical.”
“It is therefore such a great privilege to have been asked to act as Godmother to the Sun Princess, first of her class. I can’t quite believe it.”
Actor and magician Michael Carbonaro served as event MC with a host of celebrities and TV personalities, including America’s Next Top Model’s Tyra Banks and top chefs with onboard dining experiences Dario Cecchini (The Butcher’s Block by Dario), Makoto Okuwa (Kai Sushi by Makoto) along with mixologist Rob Floyd and Brazilian artist Romero Britto (Love by Britto).
Also in attendance were original Love Boat cast members Jill Whelan (Vicki Stubing), Ted Lange (Isaac) and Bernie Kopell (Doc).
English singer Natasha Bedingfield fittingly performed her popular song “Pocketful of Sunshine” plus other award-winning hits such as “Unwritten”.
Sun Princess embarked on her maiden cruise season from the Mediterranean on 29 February 2024.
For more info, head to princess.com
