Shortly before embarking Tauck’s newbuild riverboat MS Andorinha on August 7 for the vessel’s first scheduled voyage along Portugal’s Douro River, the passengers were informed that they would become the guests of honor for the ship's official christening ceremony.
Tauck's passengers were sailing on day 3 of the 12-day “Exploring the Douro, plus Lisbon & Madrid” itinerary, and following an initial 2-night hotel stay in Madrid, they expected nothing more than an embarkation experience in the village of Barca d’Alva. However, in true Tauck fashion, attending the naming ceremony was a surprising bonus.
Christening ceremonies of Tauck's new river ships have typically been attended by travel advisors, local dignitaries, supplier partners, media representatives and company executives. And while Tauck executives were indeed in attendance, the participation of the company’s loyal patrons added a unique element to the proceedings.
Serving as godmothers for MS Andorinha were two long-time Tauck employees - Jennifer Tombaugh (President) and Sharyn Cannon (Chief Culture Officer). Both have been with Tauck for 20+ years.