Atlantic Marine Completes First Steel Cut

Atlantic Marine, Jacksonville, has accomplished its first cut of steel for its new fleet of 226-passenger U.S.-flag coastal ships for Delta Queen Coastal Cruises. The steel cut begins construction for AMCV, who in May 1999, signed a $60 million contract with Atlantic for construction of the first two vessels, as well as an option for a third. Measuring 300 ft., the diesel-driven, coastal ships with nautical and Federal-style decor are scheduled to enter service in 2001 along the East Coast of America. "This project is on a fast track," said Scott Young, executive vice-president of AMCV and president of The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. "Four hundred tons of steel have been delivered to the shipyard and sub-assembly is underway on the vessel modules."