(Provided by Theresa Hess)
The StarLite Princess - one of the few authentic paddlewheelers in the United States - is moving to Daytona Beach in June 2009. This unique passenger vessel will be moving from its current port on the Corey Causeway in the St. Pete Beach area of Florida's West Coast in order to fulfill the void of cruising options in Daytona Beach. Cruises will begin on June 12th and depart from behind Caribbean Jack's Restaurant at 721 Ballough Road.
"We are very happy and excited to be expanding to Daytona, " said Phil Henderson, Jr., president of StarLite Cruises. "We have over 20 years of experience in the passenger vessel industry and operate 5 different vessels. We believe that our quality, service and variety will benefit both the local Daytona community and our attraction. We pioneered the concept of fine dining while cruising on smooth and scenic inland waters. Our service is unlike any other cruise to have operated in the Daytona Beach area."
A variety of excursions that feature something for everyone will be offered. These include
Luncheon/Sightseeing and Dinner Dance cruises with trips scheduled 6 days of the week.
Prices range from $14.95 for a sightseeing cruise with an optional lunch to $22.90 for an evening dinner dance cruise with entrees priced from 13.95 to 32.95. With StarLite Dining Cruises, you control how much you spend just as you would in a landside restaurant. Lunch and dinner entrees are all prepared fresh to order right on board under the direction of StarLite's Executive Chef. Group rates are also available.
According to Henderson, an authentic paddlewheeler may be viewed as a tourist attraction, however he notes that more than 60% of the business on the StarLite Princess is generated through the local market. Birthday and anniversary packages are popular among individuals, while many companies and associations hold parties, banquets and meetings on board.
The vessel is also very popular with brides because of the ability to have both ceremony and reception in one unique location. In addition, each captain is a notary public and able to perform marriage ceremonies. In 2008, over 150 couples included the StarLite Princess in their wedding arrangements.
"With our close proximity to beach hotels, we're anticipating an increase in the tourism market," said Henderson, "And whenever possible, it's going to be best for people to call ahead and make reservations-- we're still going to welcome large parties and private charters, so sometimes the boat may not be available to individuals."
Reservations and more information for any of the cruises offered by the StarLite Princess may be obtained by calling (386) 562-5550.
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Theresa Hess
Promotions Manager
(727) 462-2628