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Every great story has a beginning, a middle, and an end, and when it comes to the story of City Cruises, formerly known as Hornblower Cruises & Events, that story is still being written. But, while we are in the middle of writing it, let’s take a look back at the beginning, and see how Hornblower became what it is today!
When it comes to maritime adventures, few names evoke the sense of luxury, innovation, and impeccable service quite like Hornblower Cruises & Events. As a prominent figure in the cruise industry for decades, Hornblower made its name by offering passengers unforgettable experiences against the backdrop of some of the world’s most iconic waterways and cities. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and embark on a journey through the history of Hornblower Cruises & Events, exploring the origins, milestones, and other chapters of the company that give light to the enduring legacy that has made Hornblower a symbol of nautical excellence.
Hornblower’s story begins in 1980, when environmental engineer and visionary Terry MacRae founded the company in Berkeley, California. At his previous company, MacRae was looking for interesting venues to entertain clients when he came across Hornblower Tours. He liked what he saw so much, that when the company hit the market, he and a partner bought it, and set sail in a new career direction. Initially starting with a small fleet of two ships, Hornblower Cruises & Events set out to redefine the cruising experience, emphasizing top-notch service and a commitment to creating unforgettable memories for passengers. MacCrae eventually bought his partner out, and boat by boat, built Hornblower into the largest dining and charter cruise company in North America.
Hornblower Cruises & Events has long been a staple in the San Francisco Bay, offering all types of memorable experiences on the water, and as the company embraces its new identity as City Cruises San Francisco , their commitment to providing top-notch cruises and events remains unwavering. Sail past iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island or enjoy a gourmet dining experience while floating by the San Francisco skyline. No matter the option, City Cruises San Francisco continues to be your gateway to exceptional maritime adventures in this vibrant city.
Nestled in the heart of the Bay Area, Berkeley’s Hornblower Cruises & Events has transitioned to City Cruises. Known for its picturesque waterfront views and unique sailing experiences, City Cruises Berkeley is dedicated to providing unforgettable moments on the water. After all, Berkeley is Hornblower’s original location. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely daytime cruise or a sophisticated evening event, cruises around the Berkeley Marina and beyond offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
In the historic and scenic city of Sacramento, Hornblower Cruises & Events is now City Cruises. Experience the unique charm of Sacramento from the water, enjoy sightseeing tours, dining cruises, and special events. City Cruises Sacramento combines the allure of the city’s rich history with the beauty of its waterways, offering an unrivaled experience for both locals and visitors.
The vibrant and charming coastal scene of Newport Beach has served as a perfect backdrop for Hornblower Cruises & Events, and now, as City Cruises Newport Beach , it continues to offer unparalleled dining cruise experiences. Explore the stunning Newport Harbor and the Pacific Ocean with our range of cruises, each promising spectacular views, exceptional service, and an ambiance that’s both relaxing and exhilarating.
Long Beach, with its stunning coastline and vibrant harbor, has been a proud home to Hornblower Cruises & Events. As they transition to City Cruises Long Beach , you can continue to expect exceptional sea adventures. Whether it’s exploring the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, enjoying themed cruises, or hosting special events, City Cruises Long Beach promises an unforgettable experience with each voyage.
I’m in a New York state of mind! In the iconic city of New York, Hornblower Cruises & Events has rebranded to City Cruises, offering a fresh perspective on its world-famous skyline. Embark on a journey around Manhattan, witness the Statue of Liberty up close, and experience the sights like never before. City Cruises New York City continues to set the standard for exceptional cruising experiences, whether it’s sightseeing, dining, or celebrating special occasions.
While the company’s portfolio is filled with daily excursions and sightseeing tours, Hornblower has aligned itself as a go-to choice for hosting special events. Whether it’s a corporate gathering , a wedding celebration , or a milestone birthday, Hornblower’s fleet of luxurious vessels and the locations they sail, provide an exquisite backdrop for creating cherished memories and starting new traditions. The company’s commitment to service, hospitality, attention to detail, and event planning expertise ensures that every occasion becomes a memorable maritime masterpiece.
Today, the Hornblower Group is known as a global leader in world-class experiences and transportation. Their footprint spans 111 countries and territories, and 125 U.S. cities, with offerings including water-based experiences, land-based experiences, overnight cruise experiences, and ferry and transportation services, and marine consulting & services.
While the story officially began in 1980 when Hornblower Tours was purchased by Terry MacRae, the history of brands in their portfolio dates back nearly 100 years! Here’s a list of major milestones and acquisitions that can also be seen on the company’s About page:
1926 – Boston Harbor Cruises is founded in Boston, Massachusetts
1951 – Gananoque Boat Lines is founded in Gananoque, Ontario, Canada
1974 – Potomac Riverboat Cruises is founded in Alexandria, Virginia
1978 – Spirit Cruises is founded in Norfolk, Virginia
1980 – Hornblower Tours purchased by Terry MacRae in Berkeley, California
1980 – 1987 – The company is known as Hornblower Party Yachts
1984 – The company moves its headquarters to San Francisco, California
1986 – City Cruises is founded in London, England
1987 – 1993 – The company is known as Hornblower Dining Yachts
1987 – Mariposa Cruises is founded in Toronto, Canada
1991 – Odyssey Cruises is founded in Chicago, Illinois
1993 – 2020 – The company is known as Hornblower Cruises & Events
1993 – The company spins off Hornblower Marine Services (HMS), a marine management company focused on the operation of casino boats and ferries. HMS Ferries, Inc. expands to government contracting work and the development of high-speed ferry systems.
1996 – City Cruises develops the first new purpose-built sightseeing boat on the River Thames in London
1996 – Seadog is founded in Chicago, Illinois
1997 – The company acquires Lake Tahoe Cruises, Inc. and adds ferry services across Lake Tahoe
1998 – Mystic Blue Cruises is founded in Chicago, Illinois
2004 – Hornblower Group acquires Adventures at Sea and becomes the largest private yacht fleet in Southern California
2006 – Alcatraz Cruises, a Hornblower subsidiary, is awarded National Park Commission contract for Alcatraz Island in San Francisco
2007 – Entertainment Cruises acquires Baltimore Harbor Cruises
2008 – Hornblower Group awarded National Park Service contract for Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island Immigration Museum
2009 – Seaward Services is founded in New Albany, Indiana
2009 – Alcatraz Cruises designed and built the first hybrid ferry in the United States which reduces fuel consumption by 75%
2011 – Cruising Excursions is founded in London, England
2012 – HMS establishes the American Queen Steamboat Company
2012 – Hornblower Group awarded Niagara Parks Commission contract for boat tours in Niagara Gorge
2014 – Niagara Cruises begins tours in Niagara Gorge with two state-of-the-art catamarans
2015 – Hornblower Group awarded the NYC Ferry contract by the New York City Economic Development Corporation
2015 – Shore Excursions of America is founded in Easton, Pennsylvania
2016 – Victory Cruise Lines is founded in New Albany, Indiana
2016 – Entertainment Cruises is formed with the merger of Odyssey Cruises and Spirit Cruises
2016 – Entertainment Cruises acquires Potomac Riverboat Company
2017 – NYC Ferry by Hornblower begins operations on May 1, 2017
2018 – Entertainment Cruises acquires Mariposa Cruises
2019 – The Gee’s Bend Ferry operates the first zero-emission, all-electric passenger/vehicle ferry in the U.S.
2019 – Hornblower Group acquires Entertainment Cruises, Boston Harbor Cruises, Gananoque Boat Lines, and UK-based City Cruises under the Cruises & Events division
2020 – The company is known as Hornblower Group, with Cruises & Events becoming one of the company’s four divisions
2020 – Overnight Cruise division added Shore Excursions of America to its portfolio
2020 – HMS Ferries Inc. named operator of Puerto Rico Ferry Service
2021 – Cruising Excursions is added to the company’s portfolio of businesses in January, expanding our footprint globally to 70 countries
2021 – Shore Trips is added to the company’s portfolio of businesses in February, expanding our global footprint to more than 110 countries and territories
2021 – In April 2021, Hornblower Cruises & Events, City Cruises, and HMS Ferries, Inc. rebrand as one master company, City Experiences. City Cruises and City Ferry are named sub-brands of the division
2021 – In September 2021, American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines rebrand as one master company, American Queen Voyages. American Queen Voyages River, American Queen Voyages Lakes & Ocean, and American Queen Voyages Expedition are named sub-brands of the division
2021 – As part of the expansion of land-based activities Walks was brought on board in Q1 along with Devour Food Tours in Q4. The Walks platform brought in not only Guides from around the world but also a technology platform to elevate the Hornblower Group.
2022 – In February, Hornblower welcomes Australia’s leading experiential travel company, Journey Beyond, into its growing company portfolio of world-class travel experiences
2022 – Venture Ashore launches as the newest addition to the City Experiences portfolio of brands in February, becoming the largest independent cruise excursions provider in the world
As Hornblower sails into the future, the company remains committed to its core values of hospitality, innovation, and sustainability. While the cruise industry, like many others, has faced challenges over the years, Hornblower has shown resilience and adaptability. By staying attuned to the needs of passengers and evolving with the times, Hornblower has continued to thrive in an ever-changing landscape. With a portfolio that spans diverse destinations and a fleet that features everything from luxury yachts to trains, Hornblower continues to shape the cruising experience and beyond for generations to come.
In conclusion, the history of Hornblower Cruises is a tale of passion. From its humble beginnings in the Bay Area to becoming a global maritime force, Hornblower’s journey is a testament to the enduring allure of the sea and the company’s vision of providing out-of-this-world experiences on the water. It’s safe to say this story is still writing itself and is nowhere near the conclusion.
Original Post Date: December 29, 2023
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Glide around the harbor for a memorable dinner cruise experience. Begin your evening with a welcome glass of champagne, followed by a delicious four-course dinner crafted from local, seasonal ingredients at your private table. After dinner, head to the outdoor deck for music and dancing under the sparkling night sky. Boarding at 7:30 p.m. and depart at 8 p.m.
Journey Beyond Borders: Discover, Explore, And Cherish with ToNiagara
From 1848 the Maid of the Mist boats have been ferrying tourists on the Niagara River for a closer look at the Niagara Falls.
The Maid of the Mist is a boat ride that took tourists from either side of the Niagara River, i.e. from USA and Canada, on a boat ride to see the Niagara Falls from close quarters. Till 2013, the tours from both Canada and USA were operated by the same company.
In 2013, the Canadian government awarded the contract to operate the Niagara Falls boat tour to Hornblower, a California-based company. The company started operating the rides from 2014 and also announced a number of changes and improvements to the tour.
Though the route taken is the same and the experience is similar, there are a few differences between Maid of the Mist and Hornblower Niagara Cruises.
Point of Origin
The Maid of the Mist sets sail from Niagara Falls, New York State, USA. Boarding docks are within the Niagara Falls State Park, NY. Visitors have to take the elevator from the Prospect Point Observation Tower down to the Niagara River shore where the Maid of the Mist docks are located.
The Hornblower Niagara boat tour is from the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. It is located on Niagara Parkway at the foot of Clifton Hill.
If you are touring Niagara Falls, USA, it would make sense to take the Maid of the Mist . Tourists in Niagara Falls, Canada, take the Hornblower Niagara boat ride. If you have valid travel documents, you can always cross the border via Rainbow Bridge to take the boat tour from the other side of the border.
Maid of the Mist boat rides operate between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. in early summer and autumn and extend till 8:00 p.m. on weekends and peak summer.
Hornblower Niagara Cruises offers 4 different types of boat rides:
Seating Arrangements The Maid of the Mist has no seating areas either on the lower deck or the upper deck. It is wheelchair accessible, but others have to stand for the length of the boat ride.
The Hornblower boats have seating, bathrooms, enclosed viewing areas on the lower deck for those who do not want to get wet, and open upper decks for maximum viewing. They too are wheelchair accessible.
Online Booking and Timed Arrivals Though both Maid of the Mist and Hornblower Niagara boat rides can be booked online, the queues at Maid of the Mist are always long. Tickets sold are valid for any day of the whole season and not for any particular day.
Hornblower Niagara Cruises offers timed arrivals when booking online. Passengers can arrive just before the requested arrival time on their ticket and make their way through an air-conditioned terminal to the boat docks.
Tour Season Maid of the Mist operates between May and early November.
The season for Hornblower Niagara Cruises is slighter longer; boat tours start in April and continue till the end of November, weather permitting. If you are keen on taking a boat tour of Niagara Falls, check the schedule before planning your trip.
Colour of Ponchos Niagara Falls Boat Tours take you close enough to the Horseshoe Falls that you will get wet. The boat tour operators provide complimentary ponchos that keep passengers somewhat dry. Both Maid of the Mist and Hornblower provide free keepsake ponchos, but their colours vary. As the boats make their way across the Niagara River, Maid of the Mist passengers can be identified by their blue ponchos and Hornblower passengers by their red ponchos.
The biggest difference between Maid of the Mist and Hornblower is the history behind them. While the Maid of the Mist has been operating on the Niagara River since 1846, first as a ferry and later as a sightseeing boat, the Hornblower has been operating the Niagara Falls Boat Tour since only 2014. It should be noted that Maid of the Mist has changed hands over the years and since 1971 it has been owned by the Glynn family.
Tourists visiting Canadian Niagara Falls take the Hornblower Niagara Cruise while tourists to USA Niagara Falls take the Maid of the Mist. Visitors wishing to take both boat tours can do so by crossing the border (you should have valid travel documents). There are bus tours too that take you from Canada to USA and vice versa. The route followed by both boats is the same, the only difference being Hornblower also offers evening, illumination and fireworks cruises.
Hornblower has invested about $1.5 million into the former funicular or incline railway that used to ferry passengers from the foot of Clifton Hill to the gorge below where the boat docks are. The rail cars will be air conditioned/heated and an audio guide as it lowers into the gorge. The elevators to the landing area of the boat ride are also being upgraded. With an efficient system of both the elevators and Incline Railway, Hornblower expects to increase its daily number of cruises.
From July 2018, Hornblower visitors can buy a general admission ticket and use the elevators to get to the landing docks or they can buy the fast track admission ticket and take a VIP 2-minute funicular ride. You can enjoy spectacular views of the Falls as the incline railway rides down.
Take the Niagara Falls Boat Tour for spectacular views of Niagara Falls from the river. With a lot of upgrades and other attractions like the Riverside Patio, the Hornblower is a more attractive option.
Please click here to know more about Voyage to the Falls boat tour schedule and pricing for 2023.
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The city’s comptroller, which conducted the audit, said that the semi-independent city agency that runs the ferry network had made decisions resulting in millions of dollars in unnecessary expenses.
In the six months since it began, NYC Ferry has been more popular than forecast, luring some commuters from the crowded and delay-plagued subway.
By Patrick McGeehan
Despite the popularity of the city’s new ferry service, some companies involved in building the fleet have been left in tough financial straits.
On Tuesday, the public ferry system is adding a route with stops in Queens. But the location of a dock in Astoria has kayakers worrying about safety.
Two extra boats have been chartered to try to ease weekend crowding, but City Hall officials dispute the idea that they planned poorly.
By J. David Goodman and Patrick McGeehan
Less than a month after the launch of the NYC Ferry service, passengers on the city’s newest transit option dealt with long lines and delays over the holiday weekend.
By Winnie Hu and Sean Piccoli
The boat ended a 13-day trip from Alabama in Jersey City, in another step toward Mayor Bill de Blasio’s goal of opening public ferry routes this summer.
The vessel belongs to a fleet built as part of the mayor’s plan to start a citywide ferry service this summer. But first it has to get past Florida.
Builders are on a tight schedule to reach the summer deadline Mayor Bill de Blasio set for the start of his $325-million citywide ferry service, timed to begin as he seeks re-election.
Mayor Bill de Blasio’s plan, which includes three new routes by the end of June 2017, would be one of the biggest bets any city in the world has made on boats as vehicles for mass transit.
Hornblower, based in San Francisco, got the contract, angering New York Water Taxi, which says it will have to end its service.
By Emma G. Fitzsimmons
After the Maid of the Mist fleet lost its contract for tours on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, difficulties with storing its boats threaten the company’s future.
By Lisa W. Foderaro
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The California Hornblower is a classic and contemporary yacht for events and weddings in San Francisco Bay. Contact City Cruises for event planning, venue details, and blog posts about wedding trends and tips.
Hornblower Cruises is a US-based company that operates charter yachts, dining cruises, ferry services and tourist attractions in various locations. It was founded in 1980 and acquired several other operators, but filed for bankruptcy in 2024 after selling its riverboat brand.
Experience the thrill of getting close to the Niagara Falls on a Hornblower boat tour. Book tickets online, enjoy audio commentary, and choose from day or evening tours.
Hornblower Corp offers water-based and land-based experiences, ferry and transportation services, and maritime consulting and services in 111 countries and 125 U.S. cities. The web page does not mention hornblower wind, which is a different company that provides wind energy solutions.
San Diego Hornblower Cruises & Events offer a variety of cruises for guests to come aboard. The Harbor Cruise and Sea Lion Adventure tours are for one or two hours daily and provide an educational narrative, while the Sights & Sips Sunset, San Diego Dinner and Champagne Brunch Cruises provide a more social and leisure boat trip.
Enjoy a variety of cruises on the Potomac River, from brunch and dinner to sightseeing and holiday, on board the Odyssey, Spirit of Washington, or Elite Private Yachts. Dock at The Wharf, a vibrant waterfront destination with restaurants, shops, and events.
In addition to the beautiful views that are a part of every Hornblower cruise, the Pier 15 Alive After Five happy hours (Thu-Sat, boarding 5pm, cruising 6-8pm) and Rock the Yacht! party cruises ...
Hornblower Cruises offers iconic and one-of-a-kind experiences on the water in over 500 destinations worldwide. Whether you want to see the Statue of Liberty, Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, or more, you can find a cruise that suits your needs and preferences.
The Infinity offers brunch cruises ($57.50 per person) most Sundays and dinner ($80-85) and cocktail ($40-65) cruises most Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays (visit hornblower.com for complete schedules and cruise descriptions). Hornblower is also home to the greenest boat in the New York harbor, the Hornblower Hybrid, which is available for ...
Experience the thrill of a boat ride beneath the cascades of Niagara Falls with Hornblower Niagara City Cruises. Find out the ticket price, operating hours, location, and tips for a memorable tour.
Book online for Hornblower Niagara Cruises, a boat ride to the Falls. See the daytime and nighttime tours, fireworks, and Niagara Falls tours from Toronto and Mississauga.
Enjoy a relaxing bay tour or a cocktail party on the Inspiration Hornblower, the largest sky deck yacht in Southern California. The yacht offers three decks, four salons, three bars, and two dance floors for up to 1000 guests.
Commentary and archival information about Hornblower Cruises and Events from The New York Times. ... The boat ended a 13-day trip from Alabama in Jersey City, in another step toward Mayor Bill de ...
Hornblower offers various cruises and adventures on San Diego Bay, including one hour, two hour, and full bay tours, as well as sea lion, whale watching, and cocktail cruises. See over 50 landmarks, historic sites, and environmental points of interest, and enjoy live narration, snacks, and souvenir photos.
This isn't just a yacht, it's a first-class venue, with the added bonus of being on the water. ... By submitting my information, I agree to be contacted about services and offers from the Hornblower Group Family of Companies, ... Hosting Wedding-Related Events in New York City with City Cruises. August 29, 2024.
San Francisco, CA (November 15, 2022) - City Experiences announced today that City Cruises San Francisco's flagship yacht, the California Hornblower (The Cal), will return as a newly reimagined vessel for sailings on the San Francisco Bay. After undergoing a complete transformation including: refurbished bars, new windows, refreshed dance ...
This Hornblower brunch cruise features a 2-hour yacht cruise around the Bay. These boat tours pass by iconic sites like Alcatraz Island and the city skyline, and cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Bridge. Step outside for fresh breezes and stunning views. A San Francisco Bay cruise is the perfect way to spend time with family and friends.
Hornblower Cruises and Events is North America's largest and leading provider of water-based dining, sightseeing, private charter and transportation experiences. 22 coveted destinations are offered in the US, Canada and the UK, where the company employs over 4,300 shipmates who operate a fleet of 157 vessels serving upwards of 9.8 million ...
The company at that time only had 2 yachts and focused more on private tours. In 1992, the company rebranded to Hornblower Cruises & Events, which focused more on the total services that they offered. As of 2015, they have more than 32 vessels across California, New York, and most recently in Niagara Falls, Ontario for Hornblower Niagara Cruises.
Experience the thrill of a boat ride along the Niagara River and the majestic Horseshoe Falls. Book your tickets online for Hornblower Niagara Cruises, formerly Maid of the Mist, and enjoy the scenic views, mist, and fireworks.
Hornblower Infinity Charter Yacht. The Hornblower Infinity is a massive 210-foot yacht that can be chartered for events in New York and New Jersey. It's one of the biggest vessels in the area and boasts a variety of features that make it perfect for all sorts of gatherings. Here's a rundown of what it offers:
Hornblower Cruises & Events, a leading provider of dining and charter cruises in North America, has rebranded to City Cruises in several locations. Learn about the history, milestones, and legacy of Hornblower Cruises & Events and its transition to City Cruises.
After dinner, head to the outdoor deck for music and dancing under the sparkling night sky. Boarding at 7:30 p.m. and depart at 8 p.m. Friday, Jul 5 th, 2019. 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM. Visit Website. Get directions. 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292. Stay Connected.
Learn the differences between Hornblower Niagara Cruises and Maid of the Mist, the two boat tours that take you close to the Niagara Falls. Find out about the points of origin, seating arrangements, costs, seasons, and more.
Commentary and archival information about Hornblower Cruises and Events from The New York Times. ... The boat ended a 13-day trip from Alabama in Jersey City, in another step toward Mayor Bill de ...