For the first time in more than a decade, the port of Dover took cruising’s centre stage today (5 July) for the christening of Saga’s new ship, Spirit of Discovery, by the Duchess of Cornwall.
And the occasion had a true British feel to it as the Duchess was joined by more than 500 guests at what is thought to be the first ever quayside garden party.
Grass grown in Yorkshire adorned the harbour, surrounded by traditional bunting and table settings, stunning foliage, florals, trees and parasols.
During a tour of the ship the Duchess was introduced to Captain Julian Burgess and crew on the Bridge and entertainers in the Playhouse, the ship’s theatre.
She also viewed some of the 400 plus pieces of original art commissioned by British based artists and artisans. These include a striking glass work created by sculptor Peter Layton, and inspired by the Royal Gardens at Highgrove.
Following the tour, the Duchess cut a specially made cake, a two-metre long replica of Spirit of Discovery, designed and made by Mark Tilling, award winning chocolatier and winner of Bake Off Crème de la Crème.
The occasion was given a traditional British theme with a quayside garden party Pictures by Stephen Lock / i-Images
The official naming ceremony was accompanied to music by the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Collingwood and the Morriston Orpheus Choir. The ship was blessed by the Bishop of Dover, the Rt Rev Trevor Willmott.
The Duchess formally named Spirit of Discovery with a jeroboam of the specially-blended Hush Heath English sparkling wine, top of page, before an eco-confetti cannon fired across the proceedings.
Robin Shaw, Chief Executive Officer of Saga Travel, said: “This is an immensely proud moment for Saga. We started this journey to build something special some three and a half years ago, and today, we are honoured to be joined by our Godmother, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall.
“We firmly believe that Spirit of Discovery creates a new British quality standard in the cruising market and we can’t wait to welcome guests on board.”