Avalon Waterways has announced that Cheri Oteri, an actress and comedienne best known for her work on Saturday Night Live, will christen the Avalon Alegria as godmother on the Douro River in 2024.
“I am beyond excited to have the honour of godmother to the beautiful Avalon Alegria. Taking a river cruise with a constant scenic view of rich landscapes and picturesque villages is the best way to vacation I could ever imagine,” said Oteri.
“I can’t wait to sightsee with my fellow passengers in different ports while appreciating the spectacular waterways that help support the surrounding ecosystem we all get to enjoy. The beauty of this boat and everything it offers will make the best memories. Wishing us all the voyage of a lifetime aboard the magnificent Alegria!”

A rendering of the Panorama Suite onboard the Avalon Alegria. (photo via Avalon Waterways) (Photo Credit: (photo via Avalon Waterways))
Oteri will christen the Avalon Alegria on March 28, 2024 in Pinhão, Portugal.
“In our search for the perfect godmother for the Avalon Alegria – our first ship in Portugal with a name that means “happiness” – we knew Cheri Oteri would be the perfect choice,” said Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways.
“As a difference-making entertainer – and one of the ground-breaking women who inspired modern comedy in America – Ms. Oteri has brought so much inspiration and joy into our lives. We are thrilled she has chosen to honor as us the godmother of our newest, ‘happiest’ ship in Europe, and we very much look forward to celebrating her and her accomplishments in Portugal at our ship christening.”
After the christening ceremony, the 262-foot, 102-passenger Avalon Alegria will become the first Suite Ship from Avalon Waterways to set sail in Portugal. With 14 Deluxe Staterooms and 37 Panorama Suites, the ship was built exclusively to sail the famed Portuguese waterway.
“We’ve waited a long time for the perfect opportunity to add Portugal to our robust vacation portfolio and that day has nearly arrived,” said Hoffee. “Inviting our guests to sail the Douro for the first time, we’re bringing the Suite Ships of Avalon, the grandest views in cruising and whim-powered itineraries to Southwestern Europe. And we couldn’t be more excited.”

Douro River cruise with Avalon Waterways (Photo Credit: Avalon Waterways)
The Avalon Alegria will invite guests on board to cruise one itinerary in 2024 – Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro.
“For those lucky enough to join our new ship and crew her inaugural year, hillside vineyards and historic villages await them on an eight-day cruise the begins and ends in Porto,” said Hoffee. “Like our cruises across Europe, this itinerary is filled with included “Classic,” “Active” and “Discovery” excursion choices that promise guests countless ways to enjoy the sheer splendour and cinematic scenery of the Douro Valley.”
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