Soprano Anna-Maria Kaufmann is to christen Crystal River Cruises’ new vessel Crystal Bach at the weekend.
The German-based classical singer will act as godmother of the luxury ‘Rhine Class’ ship in Rüdesheim in Germany on August 20.
The ceremony will take place as part of the ship’s maiden voyage from Amsterdam.
Crystal Bach is the first of four river ships to be deployed in Europe, joining Crystal Mozart as part of the Crystal River Cruises fleet.
Crystal Bach will sail 10- and 14-day voyages, mainly along the Rhine between Amsterdam and Frankfurt and Amsterdam and Basel.
Canadian-born Kaufmann will bless the ship during the christening ceremony and give a special performance of Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Air”.
Crystal CEO and president Edie Rodriguez said: “It is an honour to have one of Germany’s most gifted and cherished talents christen Crystal Bach as she officially embarks on the Rhine as part of the award-winning Crystal fleet.
“Naturally, Anna-Maria’s remarkable career in classical music and passion for her chosen homeland are befitting for this stunning ship but, beyond that, her grace and internationally recognisable charm are representative of the elegance found aboard a Crystal river voyage.”