Actress Helen Mirren named godmother of Scenic ship

Actress Helen Mirren named godmother of Scenic ship

Academy Award-winning actress Helen Mirren has been named godmother of the Scenic Eclipse expedition vessel. The ship will be christened on Sept. 10 in New York City.

"Scenic Eclipse is a unique ship that requires an equally unique person to act in this role," stated Glen Moroney, Scenic's founder and chairman.

Mirren won an Academy Award for Best Actress in 2007 for her performance in "The Queen." She was also nominated for Oscars for her roles in 1994's "The Madness of King George," 2001's "Gosford Park" and 2009's "The Last Station."

The Eclipse is Scenic's first oceangoing vessel. It was originally scheduled to debut in 2018 but shipyard problems delayed its completion.

The 200-passenger ship's maiden voyage is slated to depart Iceland on Aug. 15 on a 13-day discovery sailing ending in Quebec on Aug. 27.

The ultra-luxe Eclipse will have two six-guest helicopters and one six-guest submarine capable of depths of nearly 1,000 feet, indoor and outdoor plunge pools, and butler service for all guests. The 114-suite ship will have 10 dining options, including Asian fusion, French fine dining, a chef's table and a poolside buffet. There will be a state-of-the-art theatre for entertainment and lectures.

Scenic operates river cruises in Europe, Southeast Asia, Russia and Egypt on 15 ships.