The tradition of blessing a ship dates back to ancient times, although only within the last roughly 100 years have godmothers stepped up to do the honors. Cruise ship godmothers are invited by lines to bestow good fortune and safe guidance, and give the ship "life." Today, godmothers tend to take on more of a promotional role. They thrive in the limelight, making appearances outside the ship's blessing ceremony in order to garner publicity.

Some lines have built upon the tradition with their own fun themes. Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas, for example, has seven godmothers, while other ships have animated godmothers (Fiona from "Shrek" blessed Allure of the Seas and Tinker Bell serves Disney Wonder). Norwegian Cruise Line has even gone as far as appointing a male figure; Miami-born rapper Pitbull serves as the godfather to Norwegian Escape.