Godmother Meredith Vieira Christens Avalon View In Bratislava

Meredith Vieira first prepared her blessing for the Avalon View christening ceremony in 2020. Finally, being able to speak the words two years later in Bratislava on April 12, the 15-time Emmy Award-winning host, executive producer and anchor was moved by the experience.

“I didn’t realize how emotional I was going to get,” she shared from the ship the following morning as it was sailing from Slovakia to Hungary. “As I was reading it, it just hit me what an incredible honour this is, it’s humbling, I’m very lucky. It hit me that I’m the god mother, wow, in a good way — not like the god father.”

Joined by Pam Hoffee, the newly appointed president of Avalon Waterways, and captain Ambrose Manolache, Vieira’s blessing officially transformed the ship from Lot #02338024 to Avalon View.

“Today we thank those with a vision of what could be and the hands to craft it so. Such beauty as this magnificent vessel now begins its river journey. Around every bend lies a new sight to behold, a new experience to savour, a new friend with whom to share it,” she said during the ceremony. “May all aboard her travel safely with eyes wide open to the wonders that await. And what a fitting name: I now christen thee, the Avalon View. Take a little time to enjoy it.”

After reciting the blessing, Vieira cut a rope tethered to a locally produced bottle of sparkling wine causing it to smash against the ship’s bow as the onboard staff cheered and twirled napkins in the air in celebration.

For the full story, don’t miss the April 18, 2022 issue of CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS.