SINGAPORE, July 19 – Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced that renowned singer, songwriter, and producer Luis Fonsi will serve as the godfather of its latest ship, Norwegian Viva. The Grammy-nominated artist, famous for his chart-topping hit “Despacito,” will perform and bless the ship at its official naming ceremony on November 28, 2023, in Miami. Luis Fonsi, a five-time Latin Grammy winner, will continue the maritime tradition of officially naming and blessing Norwegian Viva.
The star-studded christening event will take place in Miami, known as the “Cruise Capital of the World.” Joining Fonsi will be Latin celebrity superstars, including Paulina Rubio, Marcello Hernandez, and Pedro Capó, who will deliver exclusive performances throughout the evening. David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line, expressed excitement about having Luis Fonsi as the godfather of Norwegian Viva, stating that his energy, positivity, and music bring people together from around the world, making him the perfect fit for the vibrant energy of the new ship.
The christening ceremony will feature Luis Fonsi breaking a champagne bottle on the ship’s bow, marking a symbol of good fortune for its future voyages. Following the christening voyage, Norwegian Viva will make San Juan, Puerto Rico, its homeport starting December 15, 2023. It will offer seven-day Caribbean cruises until April 2024, with stops in destinations such as Tortola, St. John’s, Bridgetown, Castries, Philipsburg, and St. Thomas.
Afterward, the ship will embark on a summer season of European cruises departing from Athens, Lisbon, Rome, and Venice. Luis Fonsi expressed his gratitude for being named the godfather of Norwegian Viva and his excitement to share the ship with the people of Puerto Rico. Growing up on an island, the ocean has played an important role in his life, and he looks forward to christening the ship and introducing it to the world. Norwegian Viva is the second ship in NCL’s Prima Class, a series of six vessels designed to elevate the guest experience.
The Prima Class ships offer world-class cuisine, spacious designs, and stellar onboard activities, including the Viva Speedway three-level racetrack. Norwegian Viva also features the Indulge Food Hall, the fastest slides at sea (The Drop and Rush), and the industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar, the Metropolitan Bar. To celebrate this partnership and the all-star entertainment lineup at Norwegian Viva’s christening event, NCL has created a “Live it Up!” Spotify playlist inspired by top Latin music superstars.
