Leading Thames Operator Expands and acquires York River Boat Cruises Ltd

York River Boat Cruises today announces their acquisition by City Cruises plc, the leading River Thames sightseeing operator.

York River Boat Cruises is City Cruises second acquisition outside of London, the first being their operation in Poole. The team here in York are excited to be operating with a new injection of support and expansion provided by the London based City Cruises team.

Operating as City Cruise York, the current employees of 20 staff will continue to be led by general manager Jo Dykes. Jo, who has been with the company for over 20 years, has been instrumental in the success of York River Boat and will oversee the company’s transition to become City Cruises York. The sightseeing cruises will run from two boarding points along the River Ouse, King’s Staith and Lendal Bridge, and will grow to offer a similar schedule to London. The new cruising options will include the early evening Sundowner as well as Lunch and Dinner Cruises. York will also operate the ever-popular Sail with Santa Cruise and Christmas Night Cruises throughout the festive season.

Kyle Haughton, managing director, says “Our objective is to grow the business beyond London and the new acquisition is a step towards achieving this. There are significant opportunities to work with the trade in York and the success we’ve had packaging attractions with cruises is something we want to develop there too. We’re increasingly seeing the inbound market expanding into regions outside the capital and we believe that our brand and business model will enhances the traditional boat operator business in York. We are looking forward to welcoming the team to the City Cruises family”