Oprah Winfrey Christened Nieuw Statendam in Fort Lauderdale

Oprah fans…in case you missed it, there was a big deal happening at Port Everglades last weekend. Holland America held the christening for their newest ship, the 2,666 passenger Nieuw Statendam, and Oprah was the godmother. The much-anticipated event was held on February 2, 2019 at 2 PM.

Unlike some christenings where invited guests sit on chairs or bleachers outside, this exclusive Oprah-led ceremony was held aboard Nieuw Statendam at the World Stage theater. The dedication of a new ship goes back hundreds of years. It’s believed to bring good luck and safety to a new vessel and protect all who sail aboard.

Watch the live-streamed event:

The event began with introductions by Arnold Donald, president and chief executive of Carnival Corporation. Also in attendance was Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. Stein Kruse of Holland America Group and Carnival UK chief executive officer. Nearly 1,000 invited guests and media from around the world were in the audience. The speakers were accompanied by a live orchestra while video was displayed in the background on the 270-degree screen.

“Interest in the dedication ceremony for Nieuw Statendam from fans and friends around the world has been unprecedented, and through live streaming everyone is invited to be a part of this special event,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “We are deeply honored that Oprah Winfrey will serve as godmother of Nieuw Statendam, and now anyone who wants to watch her dedicate our new ship can be there with us and celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime moment.”

Holland America posted a sign-up page on their website so that the general public could watch Oprah. Those who registered received a reminder to tune in at Holland America’s website to watch the entire dedication ceremony. Holland America’s Facebook page live-streamed the event, too.

Nieuw Statendam had just completed a three-night Girls Getaway Cruise with Oprah cruising along with her fans. There were over 2,000 women and 57 men on the cruise, sponsored by O, The Oprah Magazine. Events included yoga on the beach, book club meetups, self-improvement seminars and the like.

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