Celebrity Cruises Announces Co-Godmothers for Celebrity Ascent

by Janeen Christoff
Last updated: 6:50 PM ET, Mon August 7, 2023

Celebrity Cruises new ship the Celebrity Ascent will have co-godmothers.

The cruise line announced that Captain Sandy Yawn, best known for her appearance on Bravo TV's hit series "Below Deck" will be godmother alongside her sister Michelle Dunham, who is the founder of the Jacksonville School for Autism (JSA).

The announcement is fitting as earlier in the year Celebrity announced that a brother duo, Captains Dimitrios and Tasos Kafetzis will jointly helm the vessel.

Captain Sandy and Michelle join an illustrious group of women chosen by Celebrity to serve as godmothers of its ships in the Edge Series. Fellow godmothers include Simone Biles, 19-time World Champion and seven-time Olympic Medalist; Reshma Saujani, founder and CEO of international nonprofit Girls Who Code; and Malala Yousafzai, Nobel laureate and activist.

"We are honored to have Captain Sandy and her sister Michelle join the legacy of Celebrity's Godmothers, as they are both inspirational women who have dedicated their lives to making a positive impact in the world," says Laura Hodges Bethge, Celebrity Cruises' President. "Captain Sandy's life story is one of resilience, leadership and strength, as a pioneer in the maritime industry and as an inspirational role model for young women. Her sister Michelle is a tireless advocate for children with autism and shows us what is possible when you follow your vision for a better world. Both women live by Celebrity's values, and we have no doubt they are the perfect choices for Ascent."

Both sisters will bless and christen the ship during her official naming ceremony, December 1, 2023.