MIAMI, 14 September 2026 – Royal Caribbean has named retired U.S. Air Force Gen. Lori J. Robinson as godmother of Legend of the Seas ahead of the ship’s arrival in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, this November. Robinson will take part in the vessel’s naming ceremony on Veterans Day, 11 November, according to the official release.
Robinson served for 37 years in the U.S. Air Force and became the nation’s first female combatant commander. She also previously led NORAD and NORTHCOM. Royal Caribbean described her as an advocate for individuals and families balancing careers and home life, as well as a role model for women in service.
Veterans Day ceremony planned in Fort Lauderdale
Legend of the Seas is sailing its debut summer season in Europe before repositioning to Fort Lauderdale for its Caribbean programme. Royal Caribbean will formally welcome the ship to the United States during the 11 November naming ceremony, attended by Robinson, company leaders, crew and guests.
The event will also recognise veterans, active-duty service members and military families while marking Robinson’s role as the ship’s godmother. In keeping with maritime tradition, the godmother is associated with bestowing safekeeping on the vessel, its crew and those who sail aboard.
“I am deeply honored to be named godmother of Legend of the Seas and take part in such a special tradition for Royal Caribbean alongside my family,” said Gen. Lori J. Robinson, godmother of Legend of the Seas. “Throughout my career, I have seen the importance of bringing people together in pursuit of a shared purpose, and Legend creates those same connections for families and loved ones. Having the ship’s naming ceremony on Veterans Day makes this especially meaningful to me, and I look forward to recognizing the generations of men and women who have served.”
Royal Caribbean highlights Robinson’s military career
Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean, said Robinson’s career and record of service were central to her selection for the role.
“Gen. Lori J. Robinson embodies courage, determination and a spirit of service that make her a legend in her own right and a remarkable godmother for Legend of the Seas,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean. “We are honored to celebrate her incredible legacy as a 37-year Air Force commander who has defied all limits, along with the countless stories of military service across our Royal Caribbean family, from the crew who create unforgettable vacations to the guests who sail with us from around the world.”
Legend of the Seas prepares for Caribbean season
Legend of the Seas will arrive in Fort Lauderdale after its European debut season. The Icon Class ship features 28 dining options, including Royal Railway – Legend Station and Hollywoodland Supper Club, as well as seven pools.
Onboard entertainment includes America’s Got Talent LIVE on Legend of the Seas and Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”. Crown’s Edge, which combines elements of a skywalk and zip line, is positioned 154 feet above the ocean.
From Fort Lauderdale, the ship will operate six-night Western Caribbean and eight-night Southern Caribbean itineraries, with calls at Oranjestad, Aruba, and Willemstad, Curaçao. Every Legend of the Seas sailing will also visit Perfect Day CocoCay in The Bahamas.
U.S. arrival follows summer in Europe
The November ceremony will formally mark Legend of the Seas’ arrival in the United States and the start of its Fort Lauderdale chapter. Royal Caribbean has opened the ship’s sailings for booking.
Source: Official Press Releases from Royal Caribbean Press Centre, 15 September 2026, Miami.
