By
Laura Hyde |
APT & Travelmarvel have christened their new, purpose-built river cruise ship, Estrela, in Porto, Portugal, ahead of its maiden season on the Douro River.
The christening ceremony was held on the ship’s sun deck, where guests enjoyed a live performance from a local string duo and Portuguese-inspired cocktails. During the ceremony, speeches were given by Ana Mendes Godinho, Portugal’s minister of tourism; David Cox, CEO of APT Travel Group; and Paul Melinis, APT & Travelmarvel managing director for UK & Europe. Godmother duties, which included the traditional smashing of champagne, were performed by Lucy Huxley, editor-in-chief of Travel Weekly.
The ship’s godmother Lucy Huxley, editor-in-chief of Travel Weekly, smashes a bottle of champagne against the ship for good luck
Purpose-built for exploring the Douro River region, Estrela features 60 staterooms and suites and European-inspired interiors. Onboard highlights include a sun deck with one of the largest pools on the Douro River, an alfresco bar, regional cuisine and locally themed entertainment.