Joan Collins to be fairy godmother of a cruise
Even cruise ships need fairy godmothers it seems.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has just named legendary actress Dame Joan Collins as the godmother of its newest "Super Ship", the S.S Joie de Vivre, with a spokesperson explaining that she will lend her personality to the vessel and bestow good fortune on all who sail upon it.
Los Angeles-based Uniworld's parent company, The Travel Corporation, wasn't entirely sure they'd proceed with building the S.S Joie de Vivre after the terrorist attacks in Paris in November 2015.
But after more than seven decades of transporting travellers to the City of Light, the company decided it was more important than ever to show its continued support to the city and its citizens.
"It seemed fitting to invite Dame Joan Collins to be godmother of Uniworld's French-based S.S Joie de Vivre knowing she also is a great supporter of the majestic city of Paris where the ship will regularly sail from," the spokesperson said.
Collins, who has dozens of film, television and theatrical credits and is also a best-selling author, has close ties to France, rarely missing a summer in the Riviera, where she has a house, or missing Paris Fashion Week.
"A renowned bon vivant, the English actress also embodies the 'joy of living' philosophy that is reflected in every bold detail and gentle touch of our newest Super Ship," Uniworld CEO Ellen Bettridge said.
The S.S Joie de Vivre will sail Uniworld's Paris & Normandy route, its slightly smaller size in comparison with similar cruise ships allowing it to dock in the hear of Paris.
Able to accommodate 128 passengers, the vessel will feature two royal suites, eight junior suites and 54 staterooms, all with marble-lined bathrooms.
And guests won't have to wait to get to Paris to embrace the French appetite for good food and wine with the ship's focus on farm-to-table cuisine and local varietals.
The French-inspire furnishings, art and antiques have also met Collins' taste test.
“I hold France and its City of Light close to my heart, and now, thanks to Uniworld, my ties to the beautiful country are even closer," the former Dynasty actress said. "I am honoured to be the godmother of the S.S. Joie de Vivre and welcome guests from all over the world to fall in love with Paris just as I have."
Written by Lorna Thornber. First appeared on Stuff.co.nz.