Oprah Winfrey launches Nieuw Statendam

Holland America Line has held the dedication ceremony for its newest ship, the Nieuw Statendam, with godmother Oprah Winfrey.

“We are deeply honored to have Oprah Winfrey serve as the godmother of our newest ship in a celebration of our shared belief that travel has the power to open minds, build connections and inspire shared humanity across cultures and people,” said Orlando Ashford, Holland America Line’s president. “Oprah’s magnetic energy and astounding ability to inspire others is admired around the world, and today was the perfect culmination of a memorable few days together on Nieuw Statendam and our ongoing partnership with O, The Oprah Magazine.”

The dedication ceremony was followed by a three day Girls Getaway cruise, which celebrated the power of female relationships. Gayle King, editor-at-large of O, The Oprah Magazine and Winfrey’s best friend, joined Winfrey on the cruise.

Winfrey said: “It’s been an incredible experience to see people from across the world come together with one mind and celebrate themselves, honor themselves and honor each other. Everybody gathered, made friends and connected to people they didn’t know because they felt like they had met themselves on some level. I have never seen anything like it.”