NEW YORK/PRNewswire/ — New York Cruise Lines, parent company of iconic Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, is adding a new fleet to their exemplary roster with the addition of the Empire Class of sightseeing vessels from Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises is operating the new fleet from Manhattan’s Pier 83. The company welcomed two of the new vessels with a ceremonial christening event on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, kicking off Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises’ lineup of exciting seasonal events. With a third boat set to arrive later this year, the new fleet delivers the latest in innovation and technology to provide guests with the best onboard sightseeing experience in one of the most picturesque cities in the world.
Special guest Brooke Shields christened Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises’ new vessels at a June 13th ceremony, which featured Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and Staten Island Borough President James Oddo (PRNewsfoto/Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises)
The christening ceremony began with welcome remarks from Circle Line CEO and Chairman Samuel Cooperman and Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation President Peter Duclos, as well as speeches from keynote speakers Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and Staten Island Borough President James Oddo. Special guest Brooke Shields and a representative from the charity New Heights Youth christened the ships, followed by the breaking of a Champagne bottle across the bow. Following this, a water cannon salute from the New York City Fire Department concluded the event. After the ceremony, an inaugural cruise aboard one of the new vessels sailed within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty, an awe-inspiring experience befitting the celebration.
“The Empire Class culminates the replacement of the Circle Line fleet of ships that began nine years ago with the delivery of three Borough Class ships,” said Samuel Cooperman, CEO and Chairman of Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. “The new class, while maintaining the iconic yacht hull of the Circle Line brand, is otherwise a significant departure from previous generations.”
Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises’ next generation vessels improve sightseeing experience and on-board amenities and entertainment for New York City tourists and residents (PRNewsfoto/Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises)
State-of-the-art from bow to stern, the new Empire Class boats include significant enhancements over the existing fleet of sightseeing boats. Improvements include three deck levels, first class sound systems, and more expansive windows to maximize passengers’ viewing experience. Additional upgrades include a modernized heating and air-conditioning system and true café-style dining outlets located mid-deck that will serve the best of iconic New York City deli and artisanal dishes.
“On behalf of everyone at Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, I would like to thank Circle Line for giving us the opportunity to build these great boats,” said Peter Duclos, President of Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation. “It gives us great pleasure to know that visitors from all over the world will enjoy the best of New York City on board our boats for many years to come.”
Perhaps the most notable upgrade is the addition of a third deck, which will serve as an exclusive premier top deck, setting the perfect scene for concerts, performances and private parties on one of New York’s most unique outdoor venues. Included on the premier top deck are comfortable deck chairs designed with cup holders and well-cushioned seats, a prime outdoor “cocktail” area, a private bar with top-of-the-line food and beverage selections from local New York area vendors, such as Coney Island Brewing Company and Warsteiner Beer, as well as private bathrooms.
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