There’s something undeniably electric about stepping aboard a brand-new cruise ship, where every corridor still smells like fresh paint and every suite is waiting to make its first memories.

In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis talks with Kim Urig, a travel writer and experienced travel advisor who has been lucky enough to attend multiple inaugural sailings—from Emerald’s twin christenings on the Danube to Royal Caribbean’s jaw-dropping launches of Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas.

Kim shares:

• The fascinating origins of ship christenings (spoiler: they weren’t always so bubbly 🍾)
• What really happens on inaugural sailings—balloon drops, Broadway shows, celebrity godparents, and exclusive behind-the-scenes access
• Why inaugural cruises feel more like a movie premiere than a standard sailing
• The special perks, from tasting every specialty restaurant to touring suites you’ve only ever dreamed of booking
• The unforgettable vibe of being among the first to experience a game-changing ship

From Lionel Messi and Meghan Trainor to champagne splashes and secret scavenger hunts through luxury staterooms, Kim paints a vivid picture of the magic that comes with being part of cruising history.

About the Guest

Kim Urig is a travel writer turned travel advisor with a passion for exploring the world’s most memorable voyages. She has attended multiple inaugural sailings, from Emerald’s twin christenings on the Danube to Royal Caribbean’s headline-making launches of Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas.

Kim shares her adventures, cruise reviews, and travel tips at loveourworldtravel.com, where you can read some of her most popular articles:

• Five Things That Surprised Me About Icon of the Seas — from AI-powered elevators to Rover the ship dog, and even a gym that rivals land-based facilities.
• Utopia of the Seas – Preview Cruise Review — covering Meghan Trainor’s christening, immersive dining at Utopia Station, and how the ship positions itself as a weekend alternative to Orlando vacations.

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimurig
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Fms9wNroG/

About the Host

Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea.

📍 Website: luxurycruising.net
📧 Email: [email protected] 
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/krystalsodaitis

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Key Takeaways

• Ship christenings trace back to ancient myths of calming the seas.
• Inaugural cruises often include exclusive perks not found on regular sailings.
• These events feel like red carpet experiences—complete with celebrity godparents and live concerts.
• Travel advisors and guests can access private tours of suites, dining, and entertainment before the public.
• Sailing an inaugural voyage lets you experience cruise history in the making.