Actress Sharon Stone, famous for her roles in Basic Instinct and Casino, has been revealed as the godmother of AmaWaterways’ new ship AmaVida.
The actress, producer and philanthropist will bless the 106-passenger river vessel at a traditional christening ceremony in Porto, Portugal, on March 22.
Kristin Karst, AmaWaterways’ executive vice president and co-owner, said: “We are thrilled to have such an accomplished and acclaimed person as Sharon Stone as the AmaVida’s godmother.
“We are so inspired by Sharon’s extensive humanitarian efforts over the years. Her beauty and grace make her the perfect match for the AmaVida, one of the loveliest and most technologically advanced river cruise ships in operation today.”
In addition to her film career, Stone supports a number of charitable causes, and has helped raise more than $300 million for Aids research since 1995. She currently works with Drop in the Bucket, a non-profit organisation that builds wells and sanitation systems at schools in Africa.
The AmaVida will cruise exclusively in Portugal’s Douro River Valley, and in an effort to be as environmentally responsible as possible the ship features photovoltaic solar panels on the sun deck to generate energy for the ship’s operating systems.
The vessel, leased by AmaWaterways from its Portuguese partner Douro Azul, also features a heated pool, massage and beauty salon, fitness centre, and complimentary in-room internet access and video on-demand.
The AmaVida will serve the Douro River on several itineraries in 2013 and 2014, such as the Port Wine & Flamenco, Enticing Douro, Impressions of France & Portugal, and Classic Port Wines & Charming Quintas.