Holland America Line has revealed Oprah Winfrey will serve as godmother of its new Nieuw Statendam vessel.

In support of the appointment O, the Oprah Magazine, has announced a three-day Girls’ Getaway cruise on the ship, starting on January 30th next year.

Oprah Winfrey will embark on the cruise, joined by O editor-at-large, Gayle King, and other members of the magazine’s editorial staff, who will host special presentations and events on board.

Nieuw Statendam is currently under construction at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard in Italy.

Winfrey will serve as godmother of Nieuw Statendam, with an official dedication by Winfrey to take place in a private ceremony at a later date.

Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line, said: “We are so excited to have Oprah set sail with us again for the Girls’ Getaway cruise in partnership with O, The Oprah Magazine, and we’re deeply honoured that Oprah will serve as godmother of Nieuw Statendam.

“The time-honoured maritime tradition of choosing a godmother for a new vessel dates back more than 4,000 years and is revered as important in bringing good luck and protection to the ship and all who sail on board, so it’s perfectly fitting that the Girls’ Getaway cruise will take place on Nieuw Statendam.

“We anticipate the energy and inspirational spirit will be unlike any other cruise experience there is — and life-changing for many.”

The Girls’ Getaway cruise sails roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and spends a day at Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line’s idyllic private island in the Bahamas.

Jayne Jamison, senior vice president, publisher and chief revenue officer of O, The Oprah Magazine, said: “The partnership with Holland America Line has been a dream come true.

“Our teams have worked seamlessly together to create unforgettable moments inspired by content in the magazine for the January 2019 sailing that reflect our core values and goals of helping people expand their horizons and live their best life.”