Celebrity Cruises Names Chef Janaína Torres New Vessel’s Godmother
Celebrity Cruises named renowned Brazilian chef, Janaína Torres as the godmother of its latest ship, Celebrity Xcel. The appointment makes her the first Brazilian chef to be given the honor by a major cruise line. Torres, who was recognized as the World’s Best Female Chef in 2024 by World’s 50 Best, is celebrated for her innovative and sustainable approach to cooking. Mostly, it combines her cultural roots with a modern philosophy.
The Press Announcement
The news about the special honor for Janaína Torres arrived via PR Newswire on Monday this week. The announcement highlights Celebrity Cruises’ dedication to honoring global culture through elevated culinary experiences.
As Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, said: “We are honored for Chef Janaína Torres, a trailblazer in the culinary industry, to be Godmother of Celebrity Xcel.” Torres, she added, “shares our commitment to celebrating and sharing global culture through elevated culinary experiences.” The focus seems about “connecting diners with culture through unique food experiences.”
Torres responded with grace, and the release cited her as saying, “I’ve always believed that fine dining should be accessible, not intimidating. Food brings us together, connecting us through new flavors, traditions, and shared memories. I’m proud to partner with Celebrity Cruises to showcase our culture and cuisine on a global stage.”
Plenty of Upmarket Catering Experience
As a co-owner of the highly praised São Paulo restaurant A Casa do Porco, she’s very much a central figure in Brazil’s food world. Her other ventures include O Bar de Dona Onça, Hot Pork, Sorveteria do Centro, and Merenda da Cidade. Most recently, she started À Brasileira, a new food and culture project to celebrate, and promote Brazilian cooking traditions.
Well, it’s very much an honor. No doubt, guests on Celebrity Xcel will appreciate there is a Godmother when they travel with the company. Apparently, appointing a Godmother to a vessel is a maritime tradition that helps bring both inspiration and protection while at sea.
When Does The New Vessel Launch?
If you’re into cruising as a vacation, it might interest you that Celebrity Cruises plan a christening of Xcel on November 25 this year. After its first sailing, the Celebrity Xcel begins its inaugural Caribbean season.
In future, expect weekly seven-night trips from Fort Lauderdale to popular locations such as the Bahamas, Mexico, the Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten.
Then, starting in the summer of 2026, the ship will move to Europe. Details involve seven to 11-night Mediterranean itineraries that depart from Barcelona and Athens. Additionally, anticipate new overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal.
More About The New Cruiser
According to Cruise Critic, Celebrity Xcel delivers “a heightened focus on destination-inspired culinary experiences through The Bazaar.” In fact, it’s hoped for “extended guests’ time in, and understanding of, the destinations they visit through local and authentic food, entertainment and activities.”
Are you pleased that famous culinary expert Janaína Torres became appointed as the Godmother of the new cruise ship? Shout out in the comments below, and remember to come back here often for all your travel news and updates.