By
Alex Smith |
American Cruise Lines has christened American Legend, the newest small ship in its Project Blue series, in a ceremony in Key West, Florida.
The christening ceremony included speeches, plaque exchanges and performances from local musicians. The ship’s godmother and the mayor of Key West, Danise DeeDee Henriquez, joined American Cruise Lines’ president and CEO, Charles B. Robertson, to smash the traditional champagne bottle against the ship’s hull. Also in attendance were officials from the city and port, Key West Police and Fire departments, local excursion partners, cruise lines executives and American Legend’s captain and crew.
“I am humbled and honoured to be the godmother of American Legend,” said Henriquez. “To American Legend, may your sails be filled with the winds of prosperity, your decks be graced with the laughter of travellers, and your journey be marked by endless wonder.”
“We are honoured to host American Legend’s christening ceremony in Key West with Mayor Henriquez and all our community partners,” said Robertson. “American Cruise Lines looks forward to furthering our commitment to sustainable cruising—sharing America’s stories aboard state-of-the art small ships.”
The celebration took place while the ship was docked at Mallory Square, close to the city’s town centre. American Legend was visiting Key West while sailing an eight-day ‘Florida Gulf Coast & Keys’ itinerary, which sails roundtrip from St. Petersburg, Florida.
The ship will continue sailing Florida cruises until the end of February, when it will redeploy to Washington D.C. and sail ‘American Revolution’ itineraries along the Potomac River to Chesapeake Bay. During the summer, American Legend will offer a mix of coastal New England itineraries from cities like Boston and New York, before sailing along the Hudson River in September and October. It will then return to Florida in November and December.
American Legend accommodates up to 100 guests, featuring four decks and a catamaran bow. Like its sister ships, it offers private balcony accommodations, inside and outside lounges, a main restaurant and a casual café, along with a walking track and fitness centre.