Burger Boat Company in the US has received a contract for the construction of a 98ft steel passenger vessel from First Lady Cruises in Chicago.
To be christened CHICAGO’S LEADING LADY, the vessel is designed by Seacraft Design of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin and will be built at the Burger Boat yard in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. The custom styling is especially intriguing in its intent to replicate the luxury cruising yachts of the 1920s, like the presidential yacht SEQUOIA, a style synonymous with the “Golden Era of Yachting.”
Remarkably, the Burger Boat Company has been building custom boats since 1863. The company’s production history includes many magnificent builds and noteworthy contracts. Between 1870 and the turn of the century, the Burger brand name appeared on almost 100 vessels including steamers, tugs, scows, schooners, barges and ferries. Production of motor yachts commenced in 1901 and today the yard continues to be internationally recognized for innovative design, quality construction, seaworthiness and reliability.
In 2009, Burger launched the highly anticipated SYCARA IV, a 151 foot classically styled custom fantail cruiser. SYCARA IV won ShowBoats Design Award 2010, successfully recapturing the splendor, grace and charm of a bygone era. The fame of SYCARA IV no doubt influenced the decision of First Lady Cruises to commission the steel passenger vessel from Burger, which will be used for private parties, corporate events, and serve as an official vessel for the Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise.
Follow these helpful links to view a selection of Burger Boats available for charter and for information on Great Lakes charter.
Photo credits: Burger Boat Company