There’s a new captain in Northeast Florida! Amelia River Cruises, historic and wildlife sightseeing boat tour operator, is excited to announce Marketing Director and Tour Narrator Lori Hoerl has completed the requirements necessary to obtain a 50-ton master’s inland captain license and the designation of captain. The criteria for the license includes passing a Coast Guard exam, logging 360 days on the water with a minimum of four hours a day, and passing a physical examination and a first-aid exam. Along with her roles at Amelia River Cruises, Hoerl was recently hired as captain for the Fernandina Harbor Pilot Association, where she transports harbor pilots to and from ships coming into and out of the local port.

“It’s a nice contrast to the marketing world,” said Hoerl. “The challenge of pilot boat work requires the ability to sail in all kinds of weather and difficult conditions, and having to incorporate every imaginable boat handling skill everyday on the job.”

Sailing is a relative new world for Hoerl, who joined Amelia River Cruises three years ago. A Baltimore native, she moved to New York City to study opera and spent 17 years singing, acting and dancing. Hoerl relocated to Florida to pursue a simpler life and milder climate. After learning the history, exploring the nature and experiencing firsthand the rustic beauty of Northeast Florida, she found a new passion and career. Hoerl is now an integral part of Amelia River Cruises, which offers narrated wildlife and history tours, as well as private charters and special sailings year-round.

“Lori’s passion for the water and love for the history and nature of the area, matched with her innate ability as a performer and entertainer, make her a natural fit at Amelia River Cruises,” said Owner Captain Kevin McCarthy. “We are extremely proud of her recent achievement as a licensed captain and are thrilled to have her as part of our team.”

Want to book your adventure aboard an Amelia River Cruise? Visit www.ameliarivercruises.com or contact Marketing Director Lori Hoerl at (904) 321-7372 or [email protected].