Learn more about our ships' Godmothers

In maritime tradition, a ship’s godmother holds a special place, symbolising good fortune, protection, and a close relationship between the vessel and its passengers.

We are proud to honour this rich tradition by selecting inspiring and influential individuals to serve as godmothers for our ships. Each godmother plays an essential role, bringing her own unique story and contributions to the table. In this guide, we have taken a closer look at these remarkable women who represent the spirit and values of Ambassador Cruise Line.

What Is a Ship’s Godmother?

Before we dive into our godmothers’ backgrounds, it’s worth understanding why this role is so important. The tradition of appointing a godmother dates back centuries and is deeply rooted in maritime lore.

Typically, a ship’s godmother is a prominent or respected woman who is invited to christen the ship at its launch, bestowing blessings of safety and good luck on its journeys. Over time, the role has evolved, with modern godmothers often taking on an ambassadorial role, representing the cruise line in public and aligning with its values and mission.

Our Distinguished Godmothers

Sally Gunnell OBE – Godmother of Ambience

Renowned British athlete and Olympic gold medallist Sally Gunnell OBE is the godmother of Ambience. As one of the UK’s most accomplished track and field athletes, Sally's journey from Olympic glory to becoming a passionate advocate for health and well-being embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence.

Sally’s dedication to fitness and motivation aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire and uplift our passengers, ensuring that their time aboard Ambience is both enriching and enjoyable. Her role as godmother brings a sense of empowerment, echoing the adventure and excitement that each cruise with us promises.

Shirley Robertson OBE – Godmother of Ambition

As a two-time Olympic gold medallist in sailing, Shirley Robertson OBE brings a perfect blend of maritime tradition and sporting excellence to her role as godmother of Ambition.

Shirley’s deep connection to the ocean and her pioneering spirit is reflected in Ambition, a ship that embodies exploration and resilience. Her role as godmother is more than ceremonial; it is a representation of her dedication to pushing boundaries.

As the godmother of Ambition, Shirley Robertson OBE serves as a powerful symbol of skill, passion, and discovery, qualities that make each journey aboard this ship a truly memorable one.

The Significance of Godmothers in Modern Cruising

While the concept of a ship’s godmother has deep historical roots, the role has adapted with the times. Today’s godmothers aren’t just symbols of luck; they are public figures whose influence and values resonate with the guests and staff of the cruise lines they represent. We select godmothers who are leaders in their fields, embodying qualities that reflect our dedication to enriching the lives of our passengers.

By naming influential women as godmothers, we honour their contributions not just to the world of entertainment but to society.

READ MORE: Small ships… big experiences

Carrying the Tradition Forward

We take pride in creating a travel experience that’s more than just a journey from one port to the next. The involvement of our ships’ godmothers enhances the personal touch and tradition that makes every voyage special. With each christening, these women infuse our ships with their spirit, ensuring that our passengers feel a genuine connection to the history and future of Ambassador.

The role of a ship’s godmother is one of deep honour and tradition, and at Ambassador Cruise Line, our godmothers reflect the values we hold dear. Their involvement is not only a symbol of good fortune but also a testament to the lasting connections we build on every journey.

We invite you to book your next cruise holiday with us, where you can experience incredible traditions firsthand onboard our ships, where every voyage is blessed with the spirit of our ships’ godmothers.

If you’re looking for more guides, be sure to read our blog.