Canadian music legend godmother of Avalon Tranquility II in France
STRASBOURG, France, April 2, 2015 /CNW/ - It was sunny smiles all round in historic Strasbourg, France, Avalon Waterways' tenth Suite Ship was officially christened. Acting as the ship's godmother, famed Canadian singer and broadcaster Jann Arden led the ceremony.
Joined by senior Avalon Waterways personnel, executives from the Canadian travel industry and members of the media, Arden said: "On this most auspicious day, I stand here among all of you, extremely humbled and grateful for this wonderful opportunity to be a small part of the launch of this glorious vessel and sending her off on her nautical journey. May she navigate the rivers safely and soundly, boldly bringing joy to every soul she meets. I now, proudly, christen this ship: Avalon Tranquility II".
After giving her blessing, Arden cut the rope tethered to a bottle of Moët & Chandon champagne, releasing it against the new ship's bow with a resounding smash - the highlight of any ship's christening. Onlookers included Avalon Waterways managing director Patrick Clark and managing director for Canada, Stéphanie Bishop.
Champagne bottle safely broken, Arden said "It felt like winning a lifetime achievement award – so surreal and so humbling."
Cruises on the Tranquility II, which boasts a crew of 37, are already 97 per cent sold out for 2015.
"I can't imagine a more appropriate godmother for this all-Canadian christening than Jann, who embodies the warmth and sense of fun which are so typically Canadian," said Bishop.
Alberta-born Arden has released 12 albums with19 top ten singles, is an eight-time Juno award winner and a proud recipient of a star on Canada's Walk of Fame. She is also an author and broadcaster of note.
Now that she has been officially christened, the 110 meter, 128 passenger Tranquility II will commence sailing itineraries through Holland, France, Germany and Switzerland.
SOURCE Avalon Waterways
Image with caption: "Canadian music legend and new ship godmother Jann Arden, third from left, is joined by Avalon Waterways' captain Milos Laskovich, managing director for Canada Stéphanie Bishop and president and managing director Patrick Clark in Strasbourg, France for the christening of the Avalon Tranquility II. (CNW Group/Avalon Waterways)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150402_C3294_PHOTO_EN_13909.jpg
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