Royal Caribbean newbuild named in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, before starting her maiden Caribbean season
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Record-breaking Bahamian paratriathlete Erin Brown officially christened Royal Caribbean international’s new Odyssey of the Seas at a ceremony in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on 13 November 2021.
Brown, who is the cruise line’s first Bahamian godmother, is a life-long athlete who had her leg amputated after receiving treatment for stage 4 osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in 2004-2005. She then went on to become the first-ever Bahamian paratriathlete to compete in a Paralympic Games qualifier and now works at the University of The Bahamas as the compliance officer and counsellor, where she advocates for increased opportunities for students living with disabilities.
In accordance with maritime tradition, Brown blessed Odyssey of the Seas and broke a bottle of champagne against her hull to bring good luck to all who sail on the vessel.
“I am immensely grateful to have been selected as godmother to Odyssey of the Seas,” said Brown. “As a proud Bahamian, it is an honour to also represent The Bahamas and share my story with so many others. My experiences have empowered me to reinvent myself and transform my life, and I’m committed to helping ensure others can do the same.”
Brown was joined by Royal Caribbean Group chairman and CEO Richard Fain and Royal Caribbean International president and CEO Michael Bayley during the ceremony.
“It’s our honour to welcome Erin as our first Bahamian godmother,” said Bayley. “She is an incredible individual who pushes to change the status quo, making her the perfect choice for a ship as innovative as Odyssey of the Seas. It’s also fitting because The Bahamas has been our great partner and neighbour since Royal Caribbean first set sail to the islands more than 50 years ago.”
The new Odyssey of the Seas is the first Quantum Ultra-class ship in North America and boasts a combination of signature features and new offerings, such as a resort-style pool deck inspired by the Caribbean, the new Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Royal Caribbean’s first Teppanyaki restaurant in North America, the high-tech venue Two70 and the Royal Theater.
“Today, we get to show the world what imagination and determination look like when they come together,” said Fain. “All of what our teams have done over the past 20 months has led us to this moment when we can finally show the innovation and beauty of Odyssey of the Seas.”
Throughout winter 2021 and early 2022, Odyssey of the Seas will sail six-night and eight-night cruises to the eastern, western and southern Caribbean, as well as to Royal Caribbean’s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In April 2022, the vessel will reposition to Rome, Italy, to offer Mediterranean itineraries.