On Friday, the U.K.’s Department for Business, Innovation and Skills announced it was reserving its right to override the poll, choosing instead to christen the vessel “RRS Sir David Attenborough,” after the much-loved British naturalist and broadcaster who turns 90 on Sunday.

The government said the name was “one of the top suggestions” — but conceded it only received 11,000 votes. The decision was made by British Science Minister Jo Johnson, the younger brother of outgoing London Mayor Boris Johnson.

Attenborough said he was “truly honored by this naming decision and hope that everyone who suggested a name will feel just as inspired to follow the ship’s progress as it explores our polar regions.”