UK official: Polar research vessel unlikely to be named Boaty McBoatface

LONDON, England -- Boaty McBoatface may be sunk.

Britain's science minister has indicated that the country's newest polar research vessel is unlikely to be christened with the name, which topped an online poll.

The Natural Environment Research Council had asked for help finding a name reflecting the 200 million-pound ($284 million) ship's mission and celebrating British naval history.

The jokey suggestion Boaty McBoatface got 124,109 votes, more than three times its nearest rival.

The vote was advisory. Science Minister Jo Johnson said Monday that "imaginative" suggestions would all be reviewed. But he said the vessel's name should capture "the spirit of scientific endeavor."

Former BBC radio host James Hand, who proposed Boaty McBoatface, has apologized for the furor. Hand says he actually voted to name the ship after naturalist and broadcaster David Attenborough.

But never fear, Boaty fans. Royal Caribbean cruise line has invited Hand to sail on its newest and biggest vessel, Harmony of the Seas, when it debuts in May. Post-trip, he'll meet with the line's ship naming team to help christen an upcoming ship.

A number of clever names are being considered in a contest for a new name of a research vessel

The Associated Press contributed to this report.