Special competition: ‘Today Sets Sail’

Royal Caribbean International is putting a new twist on a long-standing maritime tradition by launching a national search for the Godmother of Freedom of the Seas — the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ship scheduled to debut in May 2006.

Historically an honor reserved for heads of state, politicians and celebrities, Godmothers officially give ships their names and serve as guiding spirits. Royal Caribbean Godmothers include Her Majesty Queen Sonja of Norway, Rosalynn Carter, Lauren Bacall, Whoopi Goldberg, Gloria Estefan, Katarina Witt, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, champion wheelchair marathoner Jean Driscoll and 2004 Teacher of the Year Kathy Mellor.

Through an unprecedented partnership with NBC “Today,” Royal Caribbean now is seeking to honor all adults by searching for an outstanding  individual — someone who has demonstrated exceptional spirit, courage and integrity — to serve as the Godmother of Freedom of the Seas.
The winner selected to be Freedom of the Seas’ Godmother will preside over the most forward-looking, exciting and innovative ship at sea. Freedom will feature the first-ever surfing simulator at sea, an interactive water park, two cantilevered whirlpools that extend 12 feet out from the sides of the ship and a pool deck with dedicated sports pool that transforms into an open-air nightclub each night. See rules below for complete details.

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