Merritt Island Fl - Island Boat Lines newest vessel to their fleet is the "M.V Indian River Queen", a 99 foot, triple deck paddle wheel vessel. She successfully completed her maiden voyage on November 27th, 2004.

The maiden voyage happened to be a beautiful wedding. Although it was the maiden voyage of the "Queen", the evening was all about the Bride & Groom.

The couple was married onboard the "Queen" by the Queen's Captain, Captain James Georges. Following the ceremony the newly weds and their guest began their journey together on a moonlight cruise of the Indian River. The Bride choice of music was a string quartet that was dressed in formal turn of the century costumes and played elegant string music throughout the evening. They accented the vintage attire of the "Queen" and set the mood for the event. The Bride also arranged to have a DJ act as the master of ceremony as well as provide additional music when the band took their breaks.

Both of the Queen's full service bar's were open throughout the evening. Butlerred hors d'oeuvres were served as soon as the guest arrived. Following the ceremony a sit down dinner catered by "Catering for all Occasions" was served on the first and second deck. After dinner the guest joined the Bride & Groom in the "Queen's Room" for the cake cutting ceremony. Specialty spiked coffee's were served on the second deck at the coffee shop, " Captain Jims Java". The guest danced and celebrated with the Bride & Groom throughout the evening.

The "Queen" is more beautiful then I ever expected", said Owner & founder of Island Boat Lines, Penny Flaherty, "I am obviously very proud of how she turned out". My Crew and I have been working for two long years for this day. It has been a very challenging project, one that few would have taken on. "So they say!" For those who had the opportunity to see the "Queen" at the beginning of the project will be fascinated when they see her now. The charm and beauty she will bring back to the river is very rewarding." Penny use to refer to the QUEEN as her "Diamond in the Rough." Now she says, the "Queen" shines on her own, in full glory!

During the renovation project the "Indian River Queen" has been fitted with a brand new paddlewheel, new railings, repaired decking, new fresh water holding tanks, new plumbing, hydraulic bow thrusters, new generator, upgraded fire fighting systems, art-deco paint and furnishings. All of the stair cases & doors have been widened and rebuilt to meet today's standards. The Queen has also be equipped with state of the art sound system. The Captain's wheel house has also been totally refitted. The Queens Room has been redecorated with a granite & copper full service bar named "Penny's Bar", a dance floor, new carpet, display shelves, catering prep area and transformable seating to accommodate numerous seating plans for the variety of special events the Queen specializes in.

The Queen is certified to carry up to 260 passengers. The events the "Queen" will specialize in are weddings, reunions, Corporate functions, fund-raisers, group tours and shore excursions. Special tours will be open to the public on a first come basis such as FOURTH OF JULY, VALENTINES DAY, MOTHERS & FATHERS DAY ETC. Availability for these events will be posted on the website www.islandboatlines.com

Currently the "Queen" is docked at the TELEMAR BAY MARINA: 1399 Banana River Drive, Indian Harbour Beach, Fl 32937

We are focusing on remaining in the south part of Brevard County, since the majority of our business seems to be coming from the Melbourne area. Anyone that would like to book an event on the "Indian River Queen" should call "Island Boat Lines" (321) 454-7414 to confirm their reservations. Island Boat Lines will be holding an open house and christening celebrations after the holidays. There is still availability for holiday parties.

A NEW YEARS EVE PARTY is currently being planed. Tickets will be available on a first come basis. We do not plan to advertise this event since we expect it to sell out quickly. Said Penny (The boat Lady). Anyone that would like to make a reservation for the New Years Eve Party Cruise are encouraged to do so now. The New Years Eve Party Cruise will begin with boarding at 9:00 pm, Departure at 9:30, hors d'oeuvres and live music enjoyed throughout the evening, OPEN BAR during the entire cruise with Champagne served at MIDNIGHT The "Queen will return to the dock at 12:30 allowing passengers time to disembark by 1:00 am 2005. The cost is $150 per person. Limited to 200 passengers.

For additional information call:

Penny S. Flaherty (The boat lady)
(321) 454-7414 fax & office Cell: (321)302-0544
Penny: 302-0545
www.islandboatlines.com
tours@islandboatlines.com