Silversea Celebrates Silver Nova Naming Ceremony with Godmother Announcement in Fort Lauderdale

Silversea Cruises marked a momentous occasion in Fort Lauderdale on January 4, officially naming its newest and most environmentally conscious ultra-luxury ship, Silver Nova. The ceremony, rich in maritime tradition, welcomed the ‘Ship of Light’ into the Royal Caribbean Group’s fleet, highlighting the commitment to delivering world-class, responsible vacations. The 728-guest Silver Nova stands as a testament to the future of luxury sea travel.

Silver Nova’s Naming Ceremony: A Blend of Tradition and Celebration

The ceremony was a blend of tradition and modernity, starting with the stirring sound of bagpipes, a customary Royal Caribbean Group tradition. This was followed by an emotional rendition of the U.S. national anthem by Rachel York and a special video celebrating Silversea’s 30th anniversary. Reverend Sanford Sears and Rabbi Adam Watstein bestowed their blessings upon the Silver Nova. Barbara Muckermann, President of Silversea, and Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, took the stage to reveal the ship’s Godmother—renowned chef, restaurateur, and television personality Nina Compton. The ceremony reached its climax when Compton, alongside Captain Cosimo Pontillo, christened Silver Nova, culminating in the iconic bottle-breaking moment.

Jason Liberty expressed pride in the launch: “Silver Nova is a game-changer, embodying a new vision for ultra-luxury travel. As part of our three global brands, we are committed to innovating vacation experiences in 2024 and beyond.”

Barbara Muckermann echoed these sentiments, noting, “Silver Nova connects our past and future, embodying our heritage and the evolution of luxury cruising. Chef Nina Compton, aligning with our S.A.L.T. culinary program’s values, is an ideal Godmother, reflecting our focus on human connection and cultural discovery.”

Nina Compton: A Symbol of Cultural Connection and Culinary Excellence

Nina Compton, born in St. Lucia and a resident of New Orleans, is a celebrated chef and a Culinary Ambassador for St. Lucia. Her culinary journey and advocacy for Caribbean cuisine resonate with Silversea’s S.A.L.T. program’s values of human connection and cultural discovery. Owning two restaurants in New Orleans, Compton’s appointment as Godmother is a celebration of culinary diversity and heritage.

“I’m honored to be Silver Nova’s Godmother. My journey reflects the power of cuisine in bonding people and celebrating community customs,” said Compton.

Silver Nova: A New Era in Ultra-Luxury Cruising

Silver Nova stands as a paradigm of ultra-luxury cruising, blending environmental consciousness with luxury. Her innovative design offers panoramic views and a unique connection to the sea. With a space-to-guest ratio of 75 GRT-per-guest and a wide variety of suite categories, Silver Nova offers unmatched luxury and personalized service, including butler service for all suites.

Following her maiden voyage from Venice in August 2023, Silver Nova embarks on her first Grand Voyage, the Grand Voyage South America 2024, a 71-day journey visiting 38 destinations in 18 countries.

For more information on Silver Nova and her itineraries, visit Silversea’s website.