Why Are Ships Christened and Why Do They Have a Godmother?
Across centuries and seas, the christening of a ship has remained one of the most cherished maritime traditions. Whether launching a state-of-the-art expedition vessel, a luxurious river ship, or a grand ocean liner, the naming ceremony serves as a symbolic send-off. But what is the meaning behind this ritual? And why are ships given a godmother?
The story weaves together ancient customs, nautical folklore, and evolving practices that still play a vital role in the world of cruising today.
A Tradition Rooted in History
Long before ships bore thousands of guests across the world’s rivers and oceans, ancient civilisations marked their vessel launches with sacred rites. The Babylonians, Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans each had their own rituals, all designed to seek divine favour and safe passage for the crew.
In early Mediterranean cultures, wine or water was poured over the bow in honour of the gods. The Vikings used animal sacrifices to bless their longships. These early ceremonies reflected a deep respect for the sea — unpredictable, powerful, and deserving of reverence.
Over time, these superstitious offerings evolved into formal ceremonies. By the Middle Ages, Christian blessings were incorporated, and ships began to receive names during launch. This practice was believed to provide the ship with protection and purpose, a spiritual safeguard as it began its journey.
Naming as a Maritime Milestone
The act of naming a ship became a pivotal moment in any vessel’s life. As seafaring expanded during the Age of Exploration, so did the importance of the naming ceremony. Naval fleets, merchant ships, and eventually passenger vessels all received formal send-offs.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, the ceremonies became more celebratory. Large crowds gathered, dignitaries were invited, and a more recognisable feature emerged: the ceremonial bottle — often of wine or champagne — smashed against the hull.
Today, this ritual extends to ships of all types. From elegant longships that glide down the Danube, to cutting-edge expedition vessels navigating the polar regions, to floating cities crossing the Atlantic, christenings are part of cruise culture across the board.
The Bottle-Smashing Ritual
One of the most anticipated moments in a ship christening is the breaking of a bottle against the bow. This symbolic gesture is believed to bring good luck and fortune to the ship and its future passengers.
Champagne became the drink of choice by the late 19th century, representing joy, success, and festivity. The belief that a bottle must shatter cleanly to ensure smooth sailing persists to this day. Some bottles are pre-scored or chilled to guarantee a successful break, while others are fitted with protective netting to catch the shards.
Though largely ceremonial, this act continues to draw significant attention and remains an essential part of every cruise ship’s launch, from boutique river vessels to expedition ships embarking on polar voyages.
The Godmother’s Role
No ship christening feels complete without the presence of a godmother — a role steeped in both tradition and symbolism. Much like a godparent, the ship’s godmother is seen as a guardian and protector, offering her blessing for safe journeys ahead.
Historically, godmothers were drawn from royalty, aristocracy, or high society. Over time, this role has evolved to include a diverse range of public figures, humanitarian leaders, celebrities, and even local heroes. The choice of godmother often reflects the ship’s ethos, audience, or itinerary.
In the world of river cruising, godmothers may be cultural ambassadors or longstanding team members of the cruise company. On ocean voyages, they are often global icons. Expedition ships sometimes choose individuals who represent environmental causes or exploration, aligning with the ship’s purpose.
A Moment of Celebration and Meaning
Ship christenings have become significant cultural moments for cruise lines, celebrated with music, dance, and destination-themed events. These ceremonies are often attended by staff, loyal guests, press, and dignitaries, and are sometimes streamed globally for enthusiasts and potential travellers to enjoy.
The ceremonial moment also signals the end of a ship’s construction phase and the beginning of its service life. For the crew, it’s a proud occasion — the start of a new chapter on the water. For guests, it brings excitement and confidence, knowing the ship has been launched with care and tradition.
Maritime Superstitions Still Endure
Even as shipbuilding has advanced into the modern age, maritime superstitions continue to play a role in launch traditions. Many ships still carry lucky coins beneath their masts. Crew members may have their own rituals for the maiden voyage. The failure of a bottle to break cleanly still causes concern, even if just for tradition’s sake.
These rituals, though symbolic, connect every ship to a long history of seafaring lore. They remind us that even with GPS and cutting-edge navigation systems, the sea retains its mystery — and respect is still due.
A Timeless Seafaring Legacy
From the mighty rivers of Europe to the dramatic coastlines of Antarctica, every cruise ship — whether river, ocean, or expedition — embarks on its journey with a nod to maritime tradition. The christening ceremony, with its prayers, champagne, and godmothers, is a powerful blend of the past and the present.
More than just formality, these rituals reflect the deep heritage of cruising. They offer a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the beginning of a vessel’s life at sea.
Whether you’re setting sail on a serene river journey, an adventurous expedition, or a classic ocean voyage, know that your ship was launched not just with engineering excellence, but with the hopes and blessings of generations before.
