Celebrity goes Beyond
CELEBRITY Cruises’ Celebrity Beyond has officially been named by her godmother, American artistic gymnast Simone Biles, ahead of the ship’s inaugural sailing from the United States.
Beyond set sail from Fort Lauderdale after her official naming ceremony, which brought her into the Celebrity fleet as its third Edge-class ship.
Helmed by Captain Kate McCue, Beyond has kicked off her inaugural American season with rotating western and eastern Caribbean itineraries visiting the beaches of Grand Cayman and Puerto Plata.
Royal Caribbean Group President & Chief Executive Jason Liberty said he could think of no-one better to serve as the Godmother of Beyond than Biles.
“This ship’s beauty, power, and resilience sets the standard by which all others will be measured...Simone’s determination, progressive nature, empowered attitude, and grace in the face of challenges make her such an inspiration to so many around the world,” Liberty explained.
“All of these attributes are why Simone Biles is perfectly suited to watch over Celebrity Beyond’s journey.”
Also joining Biles and Liberty for the naming ceremony was Celebrity President & Chief Executive Officer Lisa Lutoff-Perlo.
“I’ve been waiting for this day to arrive for a long time and I am ‘Beyond’ excited to be able to share her with our guests,” she said.
“[Beyond] is the gold standard by which other ships are built and embodies the meaning of relaxed luxury.
“She is ‘FULL’ of wonder and excitement and our guests will undoubtedly feel reconnected to the world around them as they visit new destinations and immerse themselves in culinary experiences and wellness amenities not found anywhere else at sea.”
Beyond’s naming was the highlight of a big week for the line, which also returned its
Celebrity Eclipse to Queensland for the first time this season.