As a comedian who created one of TV’s most iconic characters, Eric Stonestreet knows how to make people laugh and his new collaboration with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) as both godfather to the brand-new Norwegian Aqua and a brand ambassador is sure to bring a million more smiles to people’s faces around the world.
“When I got an email to ask if I wanted to be a godparent of a cruise ship, I said what in the world does that mean, but YES, I want do that!” said two-time Emmy Award-winning actor Stonestreet to the 2,000 in attendance who gathered at the NCL Terminal at PortMiami for Norwegian Aqua’s christening.
“Ever since I’ve been a little kid—my mom will tell you—I’ve loved bringing joy to others as best I can, just like NCL does for guests around the world,” continued Stonestreet.
NCL’s President, David J. Herrera, told the audience that Stonestreet is the perfect match to NCL’s culture as he’s “genuine, witty, glamorous. Someone you want to hang out with, someone you want to take a cruise with. He perfectly embodies the authenticity of what it means for our guests to ‘Experience More at Sea.’”
To kick off the ceremony, guests in attendance were treated to a preview of NCL’s newest in-house production of “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” the world’s first-ever theatrical concert experience honoring the multi-Grammy Award-nominated and winner Prince.
After remarks by Herrera and Captain Robert Lundberg, Pastor Pete Pera, of Rise Community Church, blessed the Norwegian Aqua. A big surprise came when the Stanley Cup made its way to the stage during Stonestreet’s remarks—NCL is the official cruise line of the NHL.
“Joining the NCL family,” continued Stonestreet, “it feels like it was written in the stars. There’s so much alignment between this brand and who I am. I love to travel; I love experiencing the world with the people that I care about…. So, needless to say, I’m thrilled to join the NCL family—it feels like a match made in heaven.
“As a new cruiser who has a deep passion for travel,” Stonestreet continued, “it is absolutely spectacular to see the amazing features and experiences that travelers and their families can enjoy aboard Norwegian Aqua, including the world’s first hybrid roller coaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster!” Other ship highlights include NCL’s first ever Thai specialty restaurant, Sukhothai; the adults-only Vibe Beach Club; the infinity pool; the Aqua Selfie sculpture; Planterie at Indulge Food Hall, a plant-based venue; and the Aqua Game Zone.
The naming ceremony wrapped up with the ceremonial bottle break across the ship’s hull, which was initiated by Stonestreet and signifies good fortune and safe travels for all who sail aboard for the life of the vessel.
Following her christening voyage, Norwegian Aqua will arrive to Port Canaveral for a season of 7-day Eastern Caribbean sailings through August 2025, with calls to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, USVI; Tortola, BVI; and NCL’s private island in The Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, with new experiences debuting in the fourth quarter of 2025.
