On December 9th, Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises and World Yacht, New York City’s premier destinations on the Hudson River, are starting a new holiday tradition with the first ever Holidays on the Hudson: Lighting of the Ships & Boat Parade, consisting of a holiday-themed party and two specialty boat cruises for local non-profits. For one night only, the Hudson River will be aglow with the festive parade of New York Cruise Line ships, lit with over 5,000 feet of holiday lights and led, of course, by a Rudolph the Reindeer decorated tugboat.

Members of the public can enjoy the inspirational, festive evening and sip hot chocolate, take photographs with Santa Claus, and enjoy the view of the majestic, sparkling boats on the river.

Circle Line will be hosting a holiday party for the non-profit Room to Grow, a local organization dedicated to supporting families and enriching the lives of babies born into poverty throughout their critical first three years of development. On board, families will enjoy food and drink donated by Circle Line’s concessions partner, Legends Hospitality, family-friendly entertainment, and a visit with Santa Claus complete with gifts for all the kids. One lucky family, chosen by Room to Grow, will have the opportunity to light the boat before it embarks on the fun-filled cruise.

World Yacht will be hosting an evening for Friends of Hudson River Park; a non-profit organization dedicated to the completion, care, and enhancement of the Hudson River Park. On board World Yacht, guests will enjoy food and drink including hot chocolate and festive holiday cookies and snacks donated by World Yacht. The ship will also be filled with holiday cheer as live carolers will accompany the cruise. The special honors of lighting the World Yacht ship will be given to a board member of Friends of Hudson River Park and will happen simultaneously with Circle Line’s lighting – filling the entire pier area and river with a beautiful, holiday vision.