Paddle-wheel boat arrives in Philadelphia
Saturday, August 28th, 2010
Philadelphia soon will have a new tourist attraction on the Delaware River. A paddle-wheel boat is a big addition to the river.
The almost 300 foot four deck paddle-wheel vessel is being billed as the biggest of its kind on the East Coast and will carry up to 1,000 people at a time for a cruise from the Ben Franklin Bridge to the Navy Yard and back. Tom D'Amato is general manager of the Belle. He says they are attempting to go first class from the start.
"From the way we are going to design the interior to the artwork to the food to using local markets, to using rising stars and local talent to perform for our entertainment, so truly we are looking to create a best of Philly environment."
The first cruise is expected in either October or November and could create 250 new jobs during peak tourist times. A trip will cost you from $25 to $75 depending if you want a meal.