by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 1:55 PM ET, Thu January 8, 2026
Kristie Keller (Photo Credit: AMADEUS River Cruises)
Kristie Keller, a travel advisor and the owner of Addicted to Adventures, has been named the godmother of AMADEUS River Cruises’ newest ship, AMADEUS Aurea.
“AMADEUS has felt like family from the very beginning, and to be entrusted with such a meaningful tradition is truly special,” says Keller.
Keller is the first person outside of the Lüftner family and the first travel advisor to serve as a godmother of an AMADEUS River Cruises’ vessel. For more than 40 years, the christening of an AMADEUS River Cruises vessel has been a family milestone for the Lüftner—until now.
“Kristie is far more than a valued advisor partner; she is truly part of the AMADEUS family,” says Marcus Leskovar, executive vice president of AMADEUS River Cruises. “She brings heart, integrity and an incredible sense of partnership to everything she does. Naming her godmother of AMADEUS Aurea is truly special, and we couldn’t imagine a more fitting choice.”
Keller is a top seller within her host agency, Oasis Travel Network, and is considered one of the most successful river cruise advisors in the industry,
“We are incredibly proud to see one of our own Oasis Travel Network members honored as the godmother of AMADEUS Aurea,” says Lee Smolinski, chief executive officer of Oasis Travel Network. “Kristie’s leadership, integrity and commitment to excellence make her a perfect ambassador for AMADEUS, and this recognition is richly deserved.”
AMADEUS Aurea is the sister ship to AMADEUS Nova. The 158-guest vessel will debut May 12-14, featuring eco-conscious innovations like a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system, solar panels and energy-efficient systems that reduce emissions. The ship will sail the Rhine and Danube rivers.
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