PHOTO: From left, Avalon Waterways captain Milos Laskovich, managing director-Canada Stéphanie Bishop, singer and godmother Jann Arden, and managing director Patrick Clark. (Courtesy of Avalon Waterways)
Avalon Waterways christened its second river ship in two weeks as Canadian singer and broadcaster Jann Arden named the Avalon Tranquility II in Strasbourg, France, on April 2.
It is the line's 10th 128-passenger Suite Ship. In late March, Diana Gabaldon, author of the bestselling "Outlander" novels, christened the Avalon Tapestry II, in Les Andelys, France. Also attending were two Avalon managing directors, Patrick Clark from the U.S. and Stéphanie Bishop from Canada.
"On this most auspicious day, I stand here among all of you, extremely humbled and grateful for this wonderful opportunity to be a small part of the launch of this glorious vessel and sending her off on her nautical journey," Arden said at the naming ceremony. "May she navigate the rivers safely and soundly, boldly bringing joy to every soul she meets. I now, proudly, christen this ship: Avalon Tranquility II."
Arden then cut the rope tethered to a bottle of Moët & Chandon champagne, releasing it against the new ship's bow with a smash.
Alberta-born Arden has released 12 albums with 19 top 10 singles. She is an eight-time Juno award winner and has a star on Canada's Walk of Fame.
The Tranquility II will operate itineraries through Holland, France, Germany and Switzerland.
Avalon's Suite Ships have two full decks of 200- and 300-square-foot suites with large seating areas adjacent to a wall-to-wall window that can be opened to transform the suite into an "Open-Air Balcony." The Suite Ships also have a club, main lounge, dining room, hair salon, fitness rooms, Sky Deck whirlpool and open-air bistro for grilled lunches. Fares include regional wines and beer at dinner, Wi-Fi and shore excursions.
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