Scenic Eclipse godmother dame Helen Mirren has praised the role of travel agents saying hers is “absolutely essential” and urged others to use one.
Mirren officially named Scenic’s first ocean vessel in New York on Tuesday in front of trade partners, crew and press.
During a press conference ahead of the ceremony, Mirren told Travel Weekly: “I use a travel agent as my husband and I have to travel an awful lot so our agent is an absolutely essential part of our lives and I do recommend getting yourself a good travel agent. A good one is incredibly valuable, especially when things go wrong. It’s made our lives so much easier.”
Mirren said she had never cruised before but was looking forward to taking her first one on Eclipse at a future date.
She praised the 228-passenger ship’s green credentials and revealed her favourite spots on board were the Observation Lounge, the Owner’s Penthouse and the bar.
Asked where she would sail, Mirren said she would go to the Arctic or Antactica “because you can only go on a ship to see that world as it is before it disappears”.
On being chosen as godmother, the Oscar-winning actress said it meant a “huge amount”, adding: “I’ve learnt the role is very important…you have that umbilical cord wherever it is in the world.
“The world of sailing and ships is one of belief, faith and luck. The godmother is part of that.”
Eclipse, which has been dubbed the “world’s most luxurious cruise ship” boasting two helicopters and a submarine, is currently sailing a five-day christening cruise to Canada.
More: Scenic launches first ocean ship in New York
Pictured: Scenic chairman Glen Moroney and project director Karen Moroney with dame Helen Mirren