American Cruise Lines’ newest ship, the American Liberty, was christened this week in Newport, the company announced in a press release.
The ceremony took place at Fort Adams State Park, where the 100-passenger ship was docked as part of its inaugural cruise.
The American Liberty’s christening celebration included cruise guests, community members, officials from Sail Newport and Fort Adams State Park, as well as a small group of American’s executives and crewmembers.
Charles B. Robertson, president & CEO of American Cruise Lines, gave remarks as did American Liberty’s godmother, Clare Harington, vice commodore of the New York Yacht Club.
“We are honored to be able to host this event in Fort Adams State Park with our fantastic partners from the community and Sail Newport. We are especially honored to have Vice Commodore Clare Harington of the New York Yacht Club serve as godmother of the American Liberty,” said Robertson.
“We look forward to further developing our longtime partnerships in Newport and many other historic coastal towns along the Eastern Seaboard,” he added.
Brad Read, executive director of Sail Newport, and Lauren Carson, RI state representative, also spoke at the event, both commending American Cruise Lines for its commitment to sustainable cruising and the company’s introduction of new and environmentally friendly small ships.
The musical trio, The Victory Belles, were also on hand to entertain guests with patriotic music as everyone gathered on the ship’s top deck for the official blessing and ceremonial bottle smash, American Cruise Line said.
The christening was followed by a traditional New England Lobster bake at Fort Adams State Park where guests also took part in a discussion and live demonstration of the region’s ancient Native American cooking process.
As the third ship in American Cruise Line’s Coastal Cat series, the American Liberty set sail on its maiden cruise on August 15, 2024.
Departing from Providence, the sold-out voyage explored destinations in New England, such as New Bedford, Nantucket Island and Martha’s Vineyard.
