Clia chief named as godmother of Emerald Sakara

President and chief executive of Clia Kelly Craighead has been announced as the godmother of Emerald Cruises’ second ocean ship Emerald Sakara.

The ship will embark on its eight-day inaugural sailing on August 5, travelling from Athens to Rome.

Emerald Sakara will then reposition to the Caribbean where a naming ceremony will be held on December 2 in Puerto Rico.

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Craighead, who is also vice-chair and executive director of the Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation, said: “I am honoured to have been chosen as godmother to the luxury ocean yacht Emerald Sakara and am proud to represent this beautiful and ecologically friendly ship in this esteemed maritime tradition.

“The name Sakara reflects my deep personal belief that positive thoughts manifest reality, and the strong rebound of cruise from the past few years – along with our commitment to a future of sustainable cruising – demonstrates the optimism that drives this industry forward every day.

“Additionally, Emerald Cruises’ cherish the planet ethos, built in accordance with the United Nations sustainable development goals, aligns with Clia’s work around environmentally responsible tourism and protecting the destinations we visit.”

Richard Twynam, Scenic Group UK managing director, said: “Kelly’s unwavering commitment to travel agents, whom Emerald Cruises relies on every day, and her work with the ports and destinations we visit around the globe drives our passion for growth and success.

“As Emerald Cruises’ fleet continues to expand with our newest luxury ocean yacht, we find it fitting that Kelly, who carries the same attributes and more, is recognised and honoured by Emerald Cruises as the godmother of Emerald Sakara.”