Royal Caribbean has named Wonder of the Seas' godmother and it found her on the popular social media platform, TikTok.
Marie McCrea was nominated by her daughter as part of Royal Caribbean's search for a godmother for the world's largest cruise ship.
The contest was held on TikTok as part of the #SearchforWonderMom contest. More than 16,000 videos were submitted for the contest, but Ms. McCrea was ultimately chosen.
She will accept the honor of blessing Wonder during a celebratory naming ceremony at the ship's homeport of Port Canaveral, Florida, on Dec. 9, 2022.
Marie and her family will be able to enjoy a 7-night Caribbean cruise while staying in the Ultimate Family Suite, which features an in-suite slide, a cinema and karaoke room, game consoles, a private balcony and more.
Royal Caribbean will also provide her family five-star hotel accommodations, first-class flights and spending money.
The cruise line has also invited the Wonder Moms who were finalists to set sail on Wonder with their families as a way of honoring their stories.
Beginning in November 2022, Wonder of the Seas will offer Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises, including stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Meet Marie McCrea
A resident of Pennsylvania, Marie McCrea is a mom, wife and cancer survivor.
Royal Caribbean says Marie overcame adversity with incredible strength, and at the center of her story are the memories she inspired and made with her family through it all.
Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley talked about Marie's journey, "The search for such an inspiring mom who embodies the spirit of Wonder of the Seas was anything but easy. Marie and her family have a heartening and encouraging story that made us cry and rejoice and hopeful, and throughout it all, she inspired wonder and adventure in those around her."
"I want to thank everyone who nominated the Wonder Moms in their own lives. More than 16,000 videos were created, and I was in awe of all the incredible stories of the everyday heroes who are motivating those around them to discover, wonder and make memories."
Royal Caribbean panel considered the top submissions, and from those compelling stories, Marie was chosen for the honor.
What is a cruise ship godmother?
Every cruise ship has a godmother, which serves as a ceremonial position.
Other ships have had women hold the role, including renowned athletes, celebrities and royalty.
The godmother's job is to give the ship a blessing for the safety of the crew members and passengers who will sail onboard it.
