American Cruise Lines announced that the American Legend, the newest ship in its Project Blue series, was christened last week in Key West, Florida.
The ceremony was held at Mallory Square while the ship was docked during an eight-day Florida Gulf Coast & Keys cruise, sailing roundtrip from St. Petersburg, Florida.
The ceremony included speeches, plaque exchanges and local musical performances. Key West Mayor Danise DeeDee Henriquez, the ship’s Godmother, joined American Cruise Lines President & CEO Charles B. Robertson for the traditional bottle smash on the top deck, surrounded by cruise guests. Officials from the City and Port, Key West Police and Fire, local excursion partners, cruise line executives and American Legend’s captain and crew also attended.
“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 Robertson.
“I am humbled and honored to be the godmother of American Legend. To American Legend, may your sails be filled with the winds of prosperity, your decks be graced with the laughter of travelers, and your journey be marked by endless wonder,” added Henriquez.
The event concluded with guests singing Margaritaville, Key West’s unofficial anthem.
The American Legend will continue sailing Florida Gulf Coast & Keys cruises before starting American Revolution cruises on Chesapeake Bay in March. In summer, it will operate coastal New England itineraries from Boston and New York, followed by Hudson River cruises in the fall. The ship then returns to Florida for sailings in November and December.