Gloria Estefan’s Heroic Act Prevented Possible Cruise Ship Disaster, Former Royal Caribbean CEO Reveals
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Richard-Fain-Gloria-estefan-102025-a1df136c55414f55b442f4514dafa328.jpg)
In a remarkable revelation, former Royal Caribbean CEO Richard Fain has shared how music icon Gloria Estefan played a pivotal role in averting a potential cruise ship disaster back in 1990. Fain detailed this extraordinary incident during a recent interview with People while discussing his latest book, Delivering the WOW.
Fain reminisced about his interactions with various high-profile celebrities who have served as godparents for Royal Caribbean’s ships over the years, including names like Whoopi Goldberg and Malala Yousafzai. However, he highlighted Estefan’s involvement as particularly special, as she was chosen to bless the company’s new vessel, the Nordic Empress (later renamed Empress of the Seas).
During the christening ceremony, Estefan, who had recently survived a near-fatal bus accident resulting in a broken back, was understandably concerned about smashing a champagne bottle for good luck—a customary tradition during ship christenings. Fain reassured her that she only needed to cut a ribbon, not swing the heavy bottle herself.
Despite the practice session going smoothly, the actual event took an unexpected turn. As Estefan cut the ribbon, the bottle struck the ship’s side, causing a dent instead of shattering as intended. Quick thinking from the Royal Caribbean team saved the day, with Estefan stepping in to entertain the crowd while the mishap was rectified.
Local news outlets reported on Estefan’s lighthearted remark about needing two attempts to break the bottle, adding a touch of humour to the situation. Fain admitted his initial anxiety over potential negative press coverage, only to find the incident generating surprisingly positive publicity as it made the rounds on television.
Years later, Fain still holds a close friendship with Gloria and her husband Emilio, praising them as “wonderful people.” Royal Caribbean has continued the tradition of celebrity godmothers, with astronaut Kellie Gerardi and singer Meghan Trainor taking on the role in recent years. Fain emphasised that while a new ship release naturally garners attention, having a celebrity godparent adds an extra layer of excitement.
Fain’s book, Delivering the WOW: Culture as a Catalyst for Lasting Success, delves deeper into his experiences in the cruise industry and the importance of fostering a culture of excellence. The significance of Estefan’s presence on that fateful day in 1990 not only added star power to the event but also inadvertently averted a potential mishap, turning an unexpected moment into a story of resilience and quick thinking.
As Royal Caribbean continues to set sail with new ventures, the memory of Estefan’s crucial role in preventing disaster serves as a reminder of the unexpected twists that can occur in the world of luxury cruises. With each christening ceremony, the company’s celebrity partnerships add a touch of glamour and excitement, creating memorable moments for both passengers and fans alike.
The incident involving Gloria Estefan and the Nordic Empress stands as a testament to human resilience and quick problem-solving, showcasing how a potentially disastrous situation can be turned around with wit and composure. As the cruise industry evolves, these stories of courage and quick thinking continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.