PHOTO: Jackie Friedman, inset, will serve as godmother of AmaViola, pictured. (Photo courtesy of AmaWaterways, inset photo courtesy of Nexion)

Nexion President Jackie Friedman will serve as godmother of AmaWaterways’ AmaViola, which is scheduled to enter service in April.

The announcement was made by Kristin Karst, AmaWaterways executive vice president, during Nexion’s annual CoNexion conference aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Getaway.

“We respect Jackie Friedman tremendously,” said Karst. “She is an industry pioneer for women who stands up for her agents and her suppliers. For me, this is truly about a business partnership and a friendship.”

The christening ceremony will take place on June 15 in Vilshofen, Germany.

Friedman will follow an impressive lineup of influential women in the industry who have served as christeners of AmaWaterways’ vessels. Past godmothers have included including Michelle Morgan, the late president of Signature Travel Network; Christine Duffy, former president of CLIA and current president of Carnival Cruise Line; and Valerie Wilson, founder, chairman and CEO of Valerie Wilson Travel.

This year, Michelle Fee, CEO and co-founder of Cruise Planners christened the AmaSerena.

“We’ve chosen women who have worked hard to be where they are today,” said Karst. “They are all female icons in the industry.”

Adventures by Disney will debut its first-ever river cruises aboard the AmaViola, which will be equipped with adjoining staterooms that can accommodate families of five. Many Nexion agents cater to families,” said Karst.

AmaWaterways, meanwhile, accepted Nexion’s Agent Choice Supplier Award for the second consecutive during a CoNexion general session.

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