New York City’s Circle Line sightseeing boats, almost a sight to see themselves, are getting an upgrade with a fleet of new “sightseeing yachts” for the routes that circle Manhattan and reach other points in the harbor.
The first two of the three new boats went into service this week, after being christened by Brooke Shields and the Presidents of 2 of New York’s 5 boroughs. Not a surprise, since the boats are named for the boroughs of the Bronx and Staten Island. They’ll be joined soon by a third boat.
With the 3 new boats, and 3 added just a few years ago, Circle Line has replaced its older fleet, which began in 1945 with war surplus boats that all carried the name Circle Line and a Roman numeral. The new boats are the first to have actual names.
Besides the names, the new boats have upgraded food service options, sound systems, heating and air-conditioning, and a premium third deck that can serve as a concert or event venue.
