Dame Joan Collins will serve as the godmother of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection's forthcoming river cruise vessel, the S.S. Joie de Vivre, launching in Paris on March 27.
Collins is an award-winning actress known for her role, among other things, as Alexis Carrington on the television show Dynasty. She has also written numerous novels and memoirs. Collins spends much of her time in Paris and other parts of France.
"I hold France and its 'City of Light' close to my heart, and now, thanks to Uniworld, my ties to the beautiful country are even closer," Collins said in a statement.
Following the November, 2015 terror attacks in Paris, Uniworld's parent company, The Travel Corporation, was faced with the decision of whether to proceed with building the S.S. Joie de Vivre.
"It was more important than ever to show its continued support for both the city where their guests have always enjoyed great experiences, and also to the Parisian people," the company stated about its decision to stay the course.
The 128-passenger S.S. Joie de Vivre will sail Uniworld's Paris & Normandy itinerary, will dock in the heart of Paris at the start and end of the journey - in fact, it was built to a length of 410 feet instead of the standard 443 feet in order to be able to do so. Sailings will have a focus on French food, wine, art and music.
The vessel will feature two royal suites and eight junior suites, each one designed in its own unique style and color scheme, as well as 54 additional staterooms. It is being outfitted with French-inspired, handcrafted furniture.
There will also be a Salon de Beaux-Arts lounge that will house a collection of fine art and antiques acquired from auction houses such as Sotheby's and Christie's as well as private collections. A public space called Le Club l'Esprit will include a pool area with a hydraulic floor that can turn into a dance floor or outdoor cinema at night.
The vessel will have two dining venues - the main restaurant, Le Restaurant Pigalle, and La Cave de Vins, a private-dining wine room.
The 8-day Paris & Normandy cruise on the S.S. Joie de Vivre starts at $2,680 per person, based on double occupancy, and includes scheduled airport transfers; all gratuities onboard and onshore; port charges; all meals; unlimited beverages including local wines, craft beers and premium spirits; daily guided shore excursions; in-suite butler service; concierge services; 24-hour room service; and WiFi.