From queens to cartoon characters: who gets to be a cruise ship godparent now?

Celebrities dominated cruise ship celebrations last week, with Modern Family's Eric Stonestreet serving as godparent of Norwegian Aqua, and Drew Barrymore christening MSC World America, accompanied by Orlando Bloom and Gloria Estefan. Robbie Williams also performed at the naming ceremony of German ship Mein Schiff Relax.

Traditionally, the godmother role was performed by a woman, chosen to bless the vessel with good luck and protection. Often a public figure or royalty, they were recognised for their achievements or strong connections to the brand.

But these days, it can be done by a man or not even a human, and it seems like more of a blessing for media coverage.

Recent years have seen the honour bestowed upon singers, actors and athletes (who have never been on a cruise), cartoon characters, the city of Liverpool, every employee of the Walt Disney Company, a whole family, a woman who won a TikTok contest, and the Wunambal Gaambera people in the Kimberley.

There are evolving reasons why godparents get the gig. If a line wants to promote their cruises to a particular nationality, they pay a popular local star. If they want special access to Australia's traditional landowners, they support the Indigenous community.

Donations and fees are another modern trend. It used to be an honorary title, although I don't think the travel agents and cruise industry figures who become godparents get paid - they're usually thrilled about the glory and free cruises whenever they want, an unofficial bonus of being a godparent. Cruise line executives have also been known to grant the status to their wives. Beats a bunch of flowers.

One of my travel writer colleagues had to report about herself this year. Jeannine Williamson, who has covered dozens of christenings, ended up godmother of Viva Enjoy.