Dame Jenni Murray to name Saga’s newest river cruise ships

Saga’s newest river cruise ships will be named by journalist and broadcaster Dame Jenni Murray at a special ceremony in the Netherlands.

In line with naval tradition a blessing will be offered for safe sailing, marked with the smashing of a bottle on the ships’ hulls.

After smashing the bottle, Dame Jenni will be given a tour of the two ships.

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Spirit of the Danube will sail its maiden seven-day voyage along the Dutch and Belgian waterways following the naming ceremony, which takes place in Arnhem this Saturday (March 21).

Spirit of the Rhine launched last year with a 13-night Moselle Valley cruise from Trier, calling at Bernkastel, Traben-Trarbach and Piesport, all in Germany.

The line said this weekend was the first opportunity to officially name both vessels.

Each 91-cabin vessel has four passenger decks which can hold up to 182 guests and up to 50 crew.

There are two different cabin grades for passengers to choose from.

Ahead of the ceremony, Saga Cruises’ chief executive Nigel Blanks said: “After the delays as a result of the pandemic, we’re delighted to formally name both ships.

“To see them side-by-side, after a challenging couple of years for the industry, it’s fantastic to reach this milestone, welcome two such stellar ships to our fleet, and enjoy the return to cruising Europe’s iconic waterways.”

He added: “Following her extensive broadcasting career, including the fantastic BBC’s Woman’s Hour, Dame Jenni Murray is a perfect godmother for Spirit of the Danube and Spirit of the Rhine.

“We already know that she is a firm favourite with our customers.”

On her appointment, Dame Jenni said: “I am delighted to be involved in the naming ceremony of Spirit of the Rhine and Spirit of the Danube.

“As a keen cruiser myself it is an honour to be involved in this maritime tradition. I wish all who sail on these ships a wonderful time.”

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