American Cruise Lines’ newest coastal ship, American Legend, was christened during a ceremony in Key West, Florida last week. The vessel is the latest in the line’s innovative Project Blue series — a lineup of 12 new U.S.-based small ships.
The celebration took place while the ship was docked at Mallory Square, just steps away from Key West’s town center. American Legend was there as a port call on its eight-day Florida Gulf Coast & Keys itinerary, which sails roundtrip from St. Petersburg, Florida.
American Cruise Lines’ new Florida itineraries are the only cruises exploring the state that offer guests the opportunity to sail the region while remaining fully in the U.S. — similar to its U.S. river cruises.
The ship’s christening ceremony included speeches, plaque exchanges, and local musical performances. Surrounded by cruise guests, the ship’s official Godmother, Mayor of the City of Key West, Danise DeeDee Henriquez, joined American Cruise Lines’ President & CEO, Charles B. Robertson, for the traditional bottle smash on the top deck.
Also in attendance for the festivities were officials from the City and Port, Key West Police and Fire, local excursion partners, cruise line executives, and American Legend’s captain and crew.
“We are honored to host American Legend’s christening ceremony in Key West with Mayor Henriquez and all our community partners. American Cruise Lines looks forward to furthering our commitment to sustainable cruising—sharing America’s stories aboard state-of-the art small ships,” said Charles B. Robertson, President & CEO of American Cruise Lines.
During the christening festivities, the cruise company was noted for its longstanding commitment to environmentally-friendly cruising and continued introduction of new, modern small ships. American Cruise Lines was also highlighted for its positive impact on local businesses and dedication to delivering authentic American experiences on all their itineraries around the country.
For the next few weeks, American Legend will continue sailing the Florida Gulf Coast & Keys itinerary, then in March will begin operating American Revolution voyages on Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. This summer, the ship will sail a mix of coastal New England itineraries from cities including New York City and Boston.
American Legend will end the year with exclusive Hudson River voyages in September and October before returning to Florida for sailings in November and December.
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