Photo Gallery: Christening of the VICTORY I in Toronto
On April 27, the VICTORY I was christened in Toronto, Canada. The ceremony celebrated the return of Victory Cruise Lines under founder and CEO John Waggoner, who had finalized the acquisition of the VICTORY I and VICTORY II in 2024. Godmother was Emily Coleman, daughter of John and Claudette Waggoner.
The Ship’s Christening
The christening ceremony took place onboard in the Compass Lounge. First, the United States and Canada were honored with the singing of their national anthems, as both countries share the Great Lakes. Kelly Jackson, Vice President of Destination Development at Destination Toronto; Kate Fineske, Executive Director of the National Museum of the Great Lakes; David William Kelly, Chief Operating Officer of Victory Cruise Lines; and Mr. Waggoner gave their speeches. The highlight of the ceremony was the official christening by godmother Emily Coleman at the bow of the ship with the Toronto skyline in the background. She smashed a bottle of Crown Royal Canadian Whisky.
The Cruising Regions
Victory Cruise Lines specializes in all-inclusive cruises on the Great Lakes and along the Canadian coast. The ships VICTORY I and VICTORY II each accommodate 190 guests and are specifically designed for cruising on all five Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the French-Canadian Maritime Provinces. Victory Cruise Lines strive to offer their guests the perfect blend of service and cuisine, entertainment and experiences, as well as discovery and adventure. They offer 10- to 15-night cruises on the Great Lakes between Chicago, Toronto, Milwaukee, and Montreal. 33 sailings are scheduled through October of this year.
The VICTORY II is scheduled to be christened in Chicago on May 12th.
Photo Credit: Victory Cruise Lines