NORFOLK, Va. — Thursday marked an important event for City Cruises Norfolk as it officially renamed its vessel the new Spirit of Norfolk after fire destroyed the original boat.
The inaugural voyage was also in honor of military appreciation in partnership with USO of Hampton Roads, Visit Norfolk, and other community partners that provide resources to new military families at the end of PCS season.
It was June 7, 2022 when the Spirit of Norfolk was underway in the Elizabeth River for a lunch cruise when the captain reported a fire in the engine room. According to NTSB, the fire was too large for the crew to fight, and all 108 passengers and crew had to be evacuated from the vessel.
NTSB said that their investigation determined it was likely caused by "the ignition of combustible materials stored near the exhaust pipe of the operating port generator," according to a news release.
The new ship, Spirit of Mount Vernon, replaced the original one and was providing cruises within about three months of the fire. The renaming took place Thursday, October 3, 2024.
Visitors can dive to see the remnants of the original ship which will be part of an artificial reef off Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
The Spirit of Norfolk has been an important part of the Norfolk community since 1978, according to City Cruises. It has proudly served as a place where everyone in the region can celebrate their most important milestones and create memories with close family and friends.
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The name "Spirit of Norfolk" honors the city’s history and embraces the future under the name that represents the community it serves, City Cruises says.
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City Cruises says they're excited to bring The Spirit of Norfolk back and ready to create memorable experiences on the water. They're booking for the holidays including a Thanksgiving Day cruise.
