Norwegian Gem's Godmother Could Be ... You

If you thought past-passenger programs were only good for a free cocktail party, think again. Norwegian Cruise Line is giving its repeat guests the opportunity to vie for the title of Norwegian Gem's godmother via an online video contest.

Starting Monday, October 8, female members of NCL's past-passenger program, Latitudes, will be able to submit a video on gemitgirl.com explaining why they should be named the godmother of Norwegian Gem. The marketing bonanza that has surrounded the 93,000-ton, 2,384-passenger ship has been pegged to its position as the "It" Girl of the fleet -- hot and hip -- so it is no surprise those are some of the qualities the line is looking for in its godmother.

Additionally, applicants must possess the "'free spirit' of NCL's Freestyle Cruising," including:

• Sophistication, independence and confidence
• Eagerness to explore new destinations and learn new things
• Glamour, style and culture
• Youthful and adventurous spirit -- regardless of age

Entrants are also encouraged to include how many times they've cruised with NCL and exhibit their own unique talent (if they have one) that exemplifies the line's "freestyle" spirit. Entries may be submitted until November 12, and will be judged on creativity and originality. The top five will be announced on gemitgirl.com November 15, and the grand prize winner will be selected with the help of a public vote open through December 7. All five finalists will be flown to New York to attend the christening ceremony on December 18 and set sail on the ship's two-night inaugural cruise.

But only the grand prize winner, once announced, will get to christen the ship. She will also receive a seven-day cruise in the luxurious Garden Villa on Norwegian Gem for her and five of her "entourage" (friends). If you haven't cruised with NCL before, you can't win the grand prize -- but a video submission will enter you to win a seven-day Bahamas and Florida cruise for two aboard Norwegian Gem in 2008.

Further details, including the contest terms and conditions, can be found online at gemitgirl.com starting on Monday, October 8, 2007.