Mitsui Ocean Cruises has announced that Senko Ikenobo, Headmaster Designate of the Ikenobo school of ikebana, will officially name the new Mitsui Ocean Fuji, at a ceremony at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal on December 7, 2024.

Senko Ikenobo’s appointment as Headmaster Designate marks a milestone in the Ikenobo school’s history, as she is the first woman to be named successor in this esteemed institution. Founded by Ono no Imoko during Japan’s Muromachi period (1336–1573), the Ikenobo school is recognized as the oldest and most influential school of Japanese flower arranging (ikebana).

Tsunemichi Mukai, president of Mitsui Ocean Cruises, said: “It’s inspiring to see how Senko Ikenobo’s artistry and values align with the essence of our new ship, and we’re honored she accepted our invitation to officially name Mitsui Ocean Fuji. Much like the delicate artistry of ikebana, which blends the natural beauty of flowers with the mindful arrangement of form and space, our ship symbolizes the experience fusion of nature, tradition and culture by offering beautiful encounters with Japan.”

The naming ceremony for Mitsui Ocean Fuji will take place onboard while the ship is docked, with the Nippon Maru, Mitsui Ocean Cruises’ other ship, also present in Tokyo Bay to welcome the fleet’s newest addition.

Before the ceremony, the 458-passenger Mitsui Ocean Fuji will debut with a six-day inaugural cruise, departing Yokohama on December 1. The voyage will visit Beppu, Busan and Shimonoseki before arriving in Tokyo on December 7. The ship’s inaugural season includes special New Year’s sailings and a 66-day Grand Asia Cruise. Bookings are currently open.