Vista’s Christening: Welcoming Oceania Cruises’ Newest Ship

The moment has finally arrived – we have officially welcomed Vista to the Oceania Cruises fleet of ships during a glittering ship christening ceremony in Valletta, Malta, on May 8, 2023. Our new cruise ship made a splashing debut with a star-studded celebration headlined by her godmother, celebrated Italian-American chef, author, restaurateur and Emmy Award-winning food personality Giada De Laurentiis, and featuring an exclusive performance from legendary Grammy and Emmy award-winning musician Harry Connick, Jr.

The beautiful cruise ship’s christening ceremony reflected Vista’s impeccable onboard experience, which features luxurious, stunning design, Broadway-caliber entertainment, warm and thoughtful service, and exciting innovative culinary experiences. As master of ceremonies, our longtime Cruise Director Leslie Jon kicked off the celebrations with a warm welcome to the pierside christening and naming ceremony before introducing the opening performance of Into the Night, Vista’s dance-centric theatrical show led by renowned “Dancing with the Stars” pro dancer and choreographer Britt Stewart.

This show-stopping performance wowed guests with high-energy choreography, incredible vocals and dazzling costumes befitting the milestone occasion.

After welcoming remarks from Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings CEO & President-Elect Harry Sommer, Oceania Cruises President Frank A. Del Rio reflected on his journey with Oceania Cruises and the legacy of his father, Oceania Cruises Founder Frank J. Del Rio. He recognized the extensive teams that came together to make Vista a reality and looked ahead to the bright, exciting future. “Vista represents our view to the future – she is the bridge to our dazzling and dynamic tomorrow,” he said.

As Frank J. Del Rio took the stage, he reflected on the 20-year evolution of the brand he started in 2003. “Tonight we’re here to celebrate everything that’s Oceania – and there’s a lot to celebrate!” he opened his remarks. “Twenty years ago almost to the day, I stood on a stage and we inaugurated the Regatta in Barcelona on a very hot day. I said on that day, Oceania Cruises simply had to be because I had a promise to keep.”

As he looks forward to and beyond his retirement, Frank thanked the many business partners, leadership and team members that have contributed to the growth and success of Oceania Cruises. He bestowed Oceania Cruises Co-Founder Bob Binder and former President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises Jason Montague, both of whom are also former Oceania Cruises Chief Executive Officers, with the honorary title of Commodore and presented each with an Oceania Cruises fleet jacket.

After blessings by Monsignor Charles Jude Scicluna and Rabbi Marc Labowitz, Godmother Giada took to the stage for the much-awaited bottle-breaking moment to christen Vista with the ceremonial Champagne and bless Vista, releasing it across the bow of the ship.

The new ship christening ceremony was crowned with a 60-minute show-stopping performance by headliner Connick who sang some of his greatest hits.

The spectacular evening ended with celebratory fireworks over Valletta’s historic harbor in honor of the vessel’s launch before christening guests embarked our new ship for dessert, cocktails and dancing. Here’s to 20 years at sea, 20 years of memories, 20 years of family!

When will you be sailing with us on our new ship? We can’t wait to welcome you aboard Vista soon. This is one new travel experience you won’t want to miss out on – explore top Vista voyages now.