The long tradition of ship sponsors

Who began the tradition of ship sponsors?

It is an old tradition visible by Henry VIII's reign and probably earlier, although its ceremonial form has changed.

The exact origin is difficult to date because ship sponsorship already appears as an established custom by the Tudor period. Henry VIII's ships had sponsors, and the practice may predate Henry VII. Launch ceremonies have taken different forms over the centuries rather than following one unchanged ritual. The familiar bottle of champagne or sparkling wine is a modern expression of a much older naval tradition.