Simone Biles, 19-time world champion and seven-time Olympic medalist, will add another very special title to her decorated career: being the godmother of the Celebrity BeyondSM, the ship that has just made its debut in Southampton, United Kingdom.
The role of godmother, a long-standing and cherished tradition on new ships, is to inspire all guests and crew members sailing on the ship, and is considered a lifelong title and honor. In her role as godmother, Biles will unveil the name Celebrity Beyond at the official ceremony to be held in Fort Lauderdale on November 4, 2022.
For its Edge-class ships, Celebrity is selecting godmothers who are breaking barriers and championing change in their respective fields. Biles joins Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai and Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code and the Marshall Plan for Moms, who serve as godmothers of Beyond's sister ships, Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex, respectively.
“Simone is truly an extraordinary individual both in and out of the gym, and I am thrilled to welcome her as godmother of our newest ship, Celebrity Beyond,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. “While I have been amazed by her skills and historic achievements as a gymnast, what has impressed me most is Simone’s courage to speak out and her ability to help others become better in sports and in life. She has risen to the occasion and overcome challenges time and time again. She is an inspiration.”.
“I have so many great memories of cruising with my parents growing up, so I’m beyond excited to serve as godmother of Celebrity Beyond,” Biles said. “I’m honored to join a group of game-changing women and appreciate the important message this designation carries in recognizing our accomplishments, and I look forward to inspiring the next generation of women.”.
Celebrity Beyond boasts the talents of multi-award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE; American designer Nate Berkus and Parisian design firm Jouin Manku; the innovative spirit of British architect Tom Wright; and the culinary expertise of Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud. The ship also features experiences and products from goop CEO and founder Gwyneth Paltrow, the brand's new wellness advisor.
Celebrity Beyond began its inaugural season on April 27, 2022, with a 10-night sailing from Southampton to Barcelona and will now spend the summer sailing nine- to ten-night itineraries in the Mediterranean. In November, it will head to Fort Lauderdale for its official christening ceremony and a winter season of five- to nine-night Caribbean sailings.
