Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection announced today that award-winning actress, best-selling author and producer, Dame Joan Collins, will be the Godmother of the S.S. Joie de Vivre, Uniworld’s newest Super Ship and the first of its kind to sail the Seine River. Uniworld will inaugurate the addition to its award-winning fleet in a christening ceremony with Dame Joan on March 27, 2017.
Following the terror events in Paris during November 2015, The Travel Corporation, Uniworld’s parent company, faced a decision on whether to proceed with the building of the S.S. Joie de Vivre. After more than 70 years of bringing travellers to Paris, the company decided it was more important than ever to show its continued support for both the city where their guests have always enjoyed great experiences, and also to the Parisian people. It also seemed fitting to invite Dame Joan Collins to be Godmother of Uniworld’s Super Ship knowing she also is a great supporter of the majestic City of Paris.
Dame Joan is an award-winning actress with dozens of film, television and theatrical credits, including the iconic role she played as “Alexis Carrington” on Dynasty; her novels and memoirs have sold more than 50 million copies worldwide. She is a celebrated bon vivant with close ties to France and the city of Paris, who seldom misses a summer in the Riviera, where she maintains a residence, or a Paris Fashion Week. As part of the time-honoured Godmother tradition, she will lend her vivacious personality to the Super Ship and bestow good fortune over it and those who sail aboard.
“We are delighted to welcome Dame Joan Collins to the Uniworld family as Godmother of the S.S. Joie de Vivre,” said Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld. “She epitomizes the ‘joy of living’ philosophy that is reflected in every bold detail and gentle touch of our newest Super Ship.” The S.S. Joie de Vivre will sail Uniworld’s popular Paris & Normandy itinerary, and was built at 125 meters as opposed to the standard 135 meters, allowing it to dock in the heart of Paris. The luxurious 128-passenger vessel will feature two Royal Suites, eight Junior Suites and 54 staterooms. All rooms will have made-to-order Savoir of England beds and marble-lined bathrooms.
The S.S. Joie de Vivre will reflect a profound appreciation for French food, wine, art and music. Everything from the ship’s décor and design, to its farm-to-table cuisine and local wine selection will be on full display for guests to enjoy. French-inspired, handcrafted furniture will adorn the vessel, complete with rich fabrics, antiques, art and gilded and wrought-iron accents, all blended in with modern-day conveniences.
“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,” said Dame Joan. “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.”