For many, the thought of cruising conjures images of endless ocean views, dining experiences attended by impeccable service, and leisurely activities that weave relaxation with adventure. For Eric Stonestreet, the actor acclaimed for his portrayal of Cameron Tucker in the hit show “Modern Family,” the allure of cruising was a mystery until he was given a unique opportunity. He was invited to become the godfather of the Norwegian Aqua, a title he initially associated with breaking a champagne bottle against the ship’s bow—a whimsical action that symbolizes both good fortune and a hearty welcome.
Stonestreet, who had never set foot on a cruise before, was intrigued and excited by this new venture. He candidly expressed that his lack of previous cruise experience did not stem from any particular hesitance but rather from a general unfamiliarity with the cruising lifestyle. His friends and family frequently boarded ships, yet he remained on the sidelines, unaware of the experience that awaited him. However, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) likely saw this naivety as an advantage, wanting a spokesperson who could genuinely share his first-time impressions with potential cruisers.
This past fall, Stonestreet embarked on his maiden voyage aboard the Norwegian Joy, an experience filled with surprises and delights. He chose to luxuriate in the Haven—an exclusive enclave aboard the ship—where he indulged in various activities, including hot stone massages, go-kart racing, and creating promotional content for the Aqua. His comments about the cruise reveal a sense of wonderment. “I didn’t know what to expect,” Stonestreet reminisced, “but the reality was completely beyond my imagination.” He described navigating past high-end boutiques and recreational spaces reminiscent of a bustling mall while at sea.
“Driving a go-kart in the middle of the ocean? It was a blast!” he exclaimed, reflecting on one of his favorite memories from the cruise. Stonestreet’s enthusiasm was infectious and demonstrated that one doesn’t need extensive cruise experience to appreciate the unique offerings of modern ships—something NCL aims to showcase with their innovative designs.
Looking ahead, the Norwegian Aqua promises to be even more thrilling, featuring the industry’s first hydro coaster. Stonestreet’s jovial declaration, “We’re going to have a hydro coaster or nothing,” emphasizes his newfound commitment to and excitement for the brand he is now aligned with.
Throughout the conversation, Stonestreet frequently referred to NCL as “we” and the Aqua as “my ship,” highlighting the seamless integration he feels within the brand. This mutual understanding and respect are critical in a partnership, especially when a celebrity lends their name to a brand. David Herrera, president of NCL, praised Stonestreet for his authenticity, charm, and inherent desire to connect with people, solidifying the belief that the actor was the right fit for the role of godfather.
Stonestreet’s admiration for the crew aboard the Joy was evident, noting their long-term loyalty to the cruise line. His observation of the team—many of whom remained with NCL for decades—illustrated a deeper narrative about company culture. “It’s rare to see such dedication. There’s a palpable joy among the team, and you can see they genuinely enjoy their work,” he commented, further illustrating how connections fostered in surprising spaces can enrich personal experiences on the water.
Looking ahead, Stonestreet has his sights set on an Alaskan cruise, a journey that holds sentimental value for him. He shared that his father had wished to make such a trip, adding a layer of poignancy to his future travel plans. Stonestreet’s appreciation for the outdoors and chillier climates aligns perfectly with Alaska’s offerings, demonstrating how cruising can transcend mere leisure and become a conduit for cherished family memories.
As for his travel arrangements in general, he humorously acknowledged his fiancée’s organizational skills, while also tipping his hat to friend Kathy Sudeikis, the travel advisor who assists him. With connections to the entertainment world and a nurturing approach to travel planning, Sudeikis represents how friendships can offer advantages that extend beyond the typical realms of work.
With his new role as godfather for Norwegian Aqua, Eric Stonestreet embodies the fresh, vibrant energy that modern cruising aims to represent. His journey illustrates the evolving image of cruises, portraying them as accessible, exciting adventures for people of all backgrounds. Through his experiences, Stonestreet not only explores the nautical world but also helps redefine what it means to be a first-time cruiser, encouraging new travelers to embrace this delightful form of exploration.