MAYOR CHRISTENS SMALL CRUISE SHIP AT MALLORY

American Cruise Line’s American Glory cruise ship arrives in Key West for a christening ceremony on Jan. 20 at Mallory Square. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

The city of Key West welcomed a new cruise ship to port with an exchange of plaques and flags. Mayor Teri Johnston was named godmother of the ship and broke a bottle of champagne over its bow to christen the American Glory, which is part of the luxury American Cruise Line fleet.

The 109-guest vessel was welcomed by business leaders, representatives of Safer Cleaner Ships, and other residents at a Jan. 20 ceremony at Mallory Square. This was the ship’s first port call to Key West.

“It is our pleasure to welcome you to our little piece of paradise,” said Johnston. “Enjoy our island and all that we treasure as locals. I can assure you that every bar back, musician, server and guide will do everything in their power to make your visit memorable enough to return year after year.”

City Manager Al Childress exchanged flags with the ship’s captain, and Johnston and the cruise line’s CEO Charles Robertson exchanged plaques commemorating the event.

Key West Mayor Teri Johnston breaks a bottle of champagne over the bow to christen the American Glory cruise ship while city officials Al Childress, Todd Staughton and Pat McAlearney look on, along with the cruise line’s CEO Charles Robertson. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly