AMSTERDAM -- AmaWaterways welcomed the AmaSofia on March 14, with godmother Sarah Little, ASTA's senior vice president of business development, christening the ship at the ASTA River Cruise Expo.
The ship embarked on its inaugural Rhine sailing on Sunday.
Little said she owes her career to unwavering curiosity, which she said is at the heart of the AmaWaterways brand.
"AmaWaterways is known for passion, heartfelt service, innovation and strong partnerships, but for me, what stood out most was how beautifully they nurture curiosity," she said. "Their ships don't just move you along the river. They invite you to explore, whether that's through a painting class, a cooking lesson in a local's home or a bike ride through a vineyard that looks like it belongs on a postcard."
AmaWaterways executives with women who have been ship godmothers, including AmaSofia godmother Sarah Little (third from right). Photo Credit: Brinley Hineman
The christening was Catherine Powell's first as AmaWaterways CEO.
"It's a very special moment for AmaWaterways as we journey into the future, as the AmaSofia is our first ship christened and launched in our beautiful new brand with colors that represent the warmth, elegance and the caring hospitality that Ama stands for," Powell said.
Company co-founder and chief brand ambassador Kristin Karst attended the celebration. Speaking at the ceremony, Karst said the event felt special, coming 20 years after AmaWaterways christened its first ship, the AmaDagio, in Amsterdam in 2006.
The 152-passenger AmaSofia will cruise the Rhine and Danube.