Seabourn has announced that the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners will serve as godparents to the Seabourn Pursuit, the cruise line's latest ultra-luxury expedition vessel. Representatives from the Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation will join the inaugural dedication ceremony on Ngula Jar Island on the Uunguu Coast, welcoming guests aboard the Seabourn Pursuit on June 29, 2024.
By choosing the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners as godparents for the Seabourn Pursuit, Seabourn highlights its dedication to environmental stewardship and its commitment to the communities it visits, underscoring its approach to sustainable travel. The ceremonial naming of the ship is scheduled during its voyage from June 22 to July 2, 2024, in the Kimberley, Australia.
Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn, stated, "We are convinced that no one could provide a more fitting blessing to our ship than the communities we explore. We are committed to the transformative impact of travel, celebrating local cultures and fostering sustainable benefits in the regions we visit. The decision to name the godparents of Seabourn Pursuit reflects a significant moment for the ship and supports our goal of achieving long-term positive change that resonates with the values of both Seabourn and our guests."
The Wunambal Gaambera are the Traditional Owners of lands and waters in the Kimberley, including Ngula Jar Island (Vansittart Bay), Yirinni (Hunter River), and Ngauwudu (Mitchell Plateau).
The christening of the ship is a ceremonial act intended to bring blessings and protection to all who sail on her. In the maritime tradition, the role of godparent carries the importance of bringing good fortune and safeguarding the vessel. The term "garrangarru," used among the Wunambal Gaambera people, signifies a nurturing or listening role, akin to that of a godparent. The Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation (WGAC), with its profound cultural heritage and connection to land and sea, is ideally positioned to serve as godparents for the Seabourn Pursuit as it debuts in Western Australia.
