Edmonton Riverboat put up for sale
The Edmonton Riverboat, formerly known as the Edmonton Queen, is for sale for the second time in a decade.
"As we embark on this new chapter, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support since we acquired the vessel in 2016," read a message posted to the boat's website and sent by email to guests on Wednesday.
Areas on the website for events, tickets and private bookings simply directed guests to sign up for a newsletter.
Jay Esterer bought the boat in May 2016 in an auction for $553,000 then spent two years renovating it.
- Sold: Edmonton Queen Riverboat sells at auction
- After renovation, name change, Edmonton Riverboat to sail North Sask. River
The boat again needed a couple years' worth of repairs after its hull was damaged in 2020 when a quick rise and then fall in water levels dropped the boat onto an underwater pillar.
- Edmonton Riverboat under repair after hull punctured by underwater pillar
- Edmonton Riverboat sets sail again
Esterer says he has enjoyed owning the boat, but doesn't have time to maintain it along with his other ventures.
"I've completed my mission of bringing it back from the dead," he told CTV News Edmonton on Thursday.
"With all my other activities I don't have the bandwidth to support it all."
He says has heard from three or four interested parties, but he'll only give the asking price to a serious bidder.
He also says he'll help in the transition of the boat to the new owner, which could even include financing.
The boat has sailed the North Saskatchewan River through downtown Edmonton since 1995.
Customers were told management was committed to a "seamless transition" that included gift certificates and vouchers in the sales agreement.
With files from CTV News Edmonton's David Ewasuk
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