Tui has launched a competition to find godparents for two of the river ships it will be launching this year.

The Tui Isla and Tui Maya are the first ships for Tui River Cruises, the travel giant’s first foray into river cruise.

Tui is seeking applicants to fill the positions that show an “insatiable desire to explore and discover new things, from reading about destinations to discovering new sights”.

Anyone aged over 18 can apply. All they need to do is explain in fewer than 400 words what exploring means to them.

Chris Hackney, managing director of Cruise said: “Tui River Cruises has given us an opportunity to start new traditions and having our godparent’s role live beyond the launch event with them ‘river testing’ some of our itineraries and making ‘Godparent Recommendations’ will be invaluable. It’s also really exciting for us to be opening up the search far and wide. Traditionally a ship’s Godparent is a Godmother but this role is open to anybody over 18 – they just need an explorer’s mind-set.  

“Exploration means something different to each and every one of us. It may mean discovering an unknown beach in an exotic location to some, whereas for others it’s as simple as finding new paths to walk in the woods, visiting new destinations on their doorstep or the thrill of taking a selfie at a world famous landmark.

“We’re not looking for extreme mountain trekkers or arctic explorers, but ordinary people who are curious, open minded and like to travel.”

The godparent will christen the ship in March 2020.

Applicants need to upload a cover letter and enter their details here https://www.tui.co.uk/river-cruises/godparents. Shortlisted applicants will partake in a skype interview with the selected candidates informed by 26^th February 2020. Duties will kick off in Amsterdam on 23^rd March at the launch party.