Dame Joan Collins to become ship Godmother
The legendary actress will be the Godmother of the SS Joie de Vivre, Uniworld’s newest ship, which will sail the River Seine.
A christening ceremony with Dame Joan will take place on March 2017.
Uniworld revealed that after the terror attacks in Paris in November 2015 the company thought twice about building the ship, however, it decided it was ‘more important than ever’ to show its support for the city.
"It also seemed fitting to invite Dame Joan Collins to be Godmother of Uniworld’s Super Ship knowing she also is a great supporter of the majestic City of Paris," it said.
"She is a celebrated bon vivant with close ties to France and the city of Paris, and seldom misses a summer in the Riviera, where she maintains a residence, or Paris Fashion Week. As part of the time-honoured Godmother tradition, she will lend her vivacious personality to the Super Ship and bestow good fortune over it and those who sail aboard."
President and CEO Ellen Bettridge said: "She epitomises the ‘joy of living’ philosophy that is reflected in every bold detail and gentle touch of our newest Super Ship."
The Joie de Vivre will sail Uniworld’s Paris & Normandy itinerary, and was built 10 metres shorter than standard to allow it to dock in the heart of Paris. The 128-passenger vessel will feature two Royal Suites, eight Junior Suites and 54 staterooms. All rooms will have made-to-order Savoir of England beds and marble-lined bathrooms.
"I hold France and its ‘City of Light’ close to my heart, and now, thanks to Uniworld, my ties to the beautiful country are even closer," said Dame Joan. "I am honoured to be the Godmother of the S.S. Joie de Vivre and welcome guests from all over the world to fall in love with Paris just as I have."
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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