News Summary
The New Orleans Steamboat Company kicked off its latest vessel, the CITY of NEW ORLEANS, at the Bienville Street Wharf. Acquired in 2017 and fully operational since 2020, the riverboat underwent significant renovations to enhance its appeal. Honored by Edna James as its Godmother, the boat is set to serve as an event venue while preserving the city’s rich maritime traditions. The event marks a key moment for tourism in New Orleans, highlighting the importance of riverboat culture.
New Orleans – The New Orleans Steamboat Company officially christened its latest riverboat, the CITY of NEW ORLEANS, on July 12, 2023, at a ceremony held at the Bienville Street Wharf. Following the ceremony, attendees enjoyed a one-hour cruise reception as the vessel took its first official journeys on the Mississippi River.
The CITY of NEW ORLEANS was acquired in 2017, when it was towed to New Orleans by Matt Dow, the company’s Director of Marine Operations. Since its purchase, the riverboat underwent a comprehensive transformation, including the installation of new engines and modern systems. The result is a stunning vessel, featuring elegant Victorian-inspired interiors that align with the rich maritime culture of the region.
Though fully certified and operational since late 2020, the formal christening of the CITY of NEW ORLEANS had been delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions that limited public gatherings. This inaugural event celebrated not only the riverboat’s readiness for public use but also the adherence to traditional maritime practices that emphasize the importance of a proper naming and christening ceremony.
The CITY of NEW ORLEANS has taken the place of the historic Steamboat NATCHEZ during its recent $11.4 million renovation. Although the new vessel has been in operation, it required additional mechanical enhancements to optimize its performance and power capabilities. As the NATCHEZ returned to service in late 2023, the CITY of NEW ORLEANS entered a shipyard for further improvements able to enhance its appeal.
Edna James was honored as the Godmother of the riverboat, performing the traditional ceremony of breaking a champagne bottle on the bow to symbolize good fortune. The CITY of NEW ORLEANS immediately contributed to its community by hosting a wedding ceremony mere hours after its christening, further establishing its role as a versatile event venue.
Designed to complement the iconic NATCHEZ, the CITY of NEW ORLEANS boasts multiple dining decks, open-air viewing spaces, live music stages, and modern event facilities. It is capable of accommodating approximately 1,000 passengers, with capacity varying according to the type of cruise offered. The vessel measures about 190 feet in length and features four decks, including a rooftop viewing area equipped with a bar, a calliope, and a large galley kitchen alongside advanced audio/visual systems.
As the tourism industry faces numerous challenges, the christening of the CITY of NEW ORLEANS serves as a reminder of New Orleans’ commitment to preserving its riverboat traditions and cultural identity. The Steamboat NATCHEZ recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, while its steam engine marked a century of service, both reinforcing the city’s historic connection to river travel.
The New Orleans Steamboat Company itself has a storied history, founded by Matt Dow’s grandfather and father following the successful rebuilding of the Toulouse Street Wharf in 1974. As the CITY of NEW ORLEANS embarks on its journey, it stands as a testament to the rich maritime heritage of New Orleans and the enduring legacy of riverboat cruises in the region.
Commanded by Skyler Nicoulin, the nephew of the current Master Captain of the NATCHEZ, the CITY of NEW ORLEANS is poised to become a beloved part of the city’s vibrant offerings on the Mississippi River, inviting locals and tourists alike to experience the sights and sounds of New Orleans from its decks.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Orleans Celebrates Independence Day Weekend with ESSENCE Fest and Fireworks
Strike Looming for Safeway and Albertsons Workers in Colorado
New Orleans Prepares for the 2025 French Quarter Festival
Additional Resources
- Biz New Orleans: CITY of NEW ORLEANS Christened
- Google Search: city of new orleans riverboat
- Travel Pulse: American Eagle Riverboat Christened
- Wikipedia: Riverboat
- NOLA: Riverboat Louis Armstrong Sells for $16M
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New Orleans riverboats
- Travel Agent Central: ACL’s New American Symphony Christened
- Google News: American Countess christened
