Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1356169
B M & T ••• March/April 2020 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 43 PortMiami in March 1972, starting a nearly 50-year rela- tionship that has seen Carnival grow to become the World's Most Popular Cruise Line and PortMiami earn the distinction as The Cruise Capital of the Worlddistinction as The Cruise Capital of the World. "I'm grateful to Carnival Cruise Line and Lemartec for their partnership with Miami-Dade County," said Mayor Levine Cava. "Despite the global pandemic, today's groundbreaking is another example of the growth happen- ing at PortMiami – The Cruise Capital of the World – and how together, we can and we will continue to thrive." "We are proud of Carnival's role in making Miami the cruise capital of the world, and today marks the continuation of an incredible 50-year partnership with PortMiami and Miami-Dade County. This expanded terminal built specifical- ly for Carnival Celebration will make an incredible addition to the existing facilities at our largest embarkation port. My most sincere thanks to Mayor Levine Cava and all of the Miami- Dade officials who made this day possible," said Duffy. "Both Lemartec and MasTec, like Carnival Cruise Line, are the classic American dream story, born in Miami. We are proud to have been chosen by PortMiami and Miami-Dade County to build this iconic terminal," said Manny García- Tuñón, President of Lemartec Corporation, a MasTec Company, which is serving as the general contractor. The terminal's clean and open design by will allow for exceptional efficiency and flexibility to accommodate Carnival's newest class of ships, maximizing use of technol- ogy to move guests through the embarkation process, pro- viding a seamless boarding experience. Carnival Celebration will offer a variety of innovations including an onboard roller coaster as well as a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system, part of Carnival Corporation's "green cruising platform." The ship will also offer a wide range of accommodation categories with 180 suites across 11 different categories, along with unique inno- vations created just for this vessel. AMERICAN CRUISE LINES MAKES A SPLASH 4TH MODERN RIVERBOAT LAUNCHED American Cruise Lines is pleased to announce the suc- cessful launch of American Melody recently at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, MD. American Melody, is the 4th new riverboat in American's acclaimed Modern Series, and is on schedule for its inaugural Mississippi River cruise season beginning in summer 2021. Once complete, American Melody will have 5 decks, and accommodate 175 guests in 91 staterooms. American Melody will highlight the Line's new interior design while also contin- uing to feature the gorgeous architectural hallmarks of American's innovative modern riverboats—showcasing a grand, multi-story glass atrium at the center of the ship, 100% private balcony accommodations, and a patented opening bow and retractable gangway. All American's new modern riverboats have been designed with sweeping expanses of glass throughout. Like previous sister ships, American Melody will offer unparalleled panoramic views both inside and out; as well as huge guest accommodations in all-balcony staterooms, suites, and singles. The new riverboat will also include: a casual outdoor café as well as a signature Grand Dining Room with river views from every table; numerous spacious sky-lit lounges; several open- air & shaded sundecks; Library; Chart Room; Game Room; Fitness Room & Yoga-Wellness Studio; as well as elevator access to all decks. American Melody is set to begin cruising the Mississippi River for American Cruise Lines in summer 2021. American Cruise Lines will also debut American Jazz in March 2021 (its 3rd brand new modern riverboat which was delayed from cruising in 2020 due to Covid). American's 5th yet to be named modern riverboat is due in 2022, and the Line plans to continue its rapid-building plans; releasing 1 to 2 new modern riverboats each year ahead. About American Cruise Lines: American Cruise Lines offers the finest river cruising and coastal cruising in the U.S.A. Year after year, American con- tinues to launch the newest small ships and uniquely curated itineraries for exploring and Cruising Close to Home™. On all American's cruises, guests discover the history, spirit, and culture of the United States aboard the most sophisticated fleet of modern riverboats and small cruise ships in the coun- try. American operates 14 ships, all accommodating just 100- 190 passengers, which cruise more than 35 itineraries in over 30 states, February through December each year. For reservations or to learn more about American Cruise Lines 2021-2023 Seasons, please call 1-800-814-6880 or visit: www.AmericanCruiseLine.com. American Melody being launched into the Wicomico River at Chesapeake Shipbuilding, Salisbury, MD.