TOUR boat operator City Cruises has officially launched its York sightseeing fleet following the £2.5million takeover of York River Boats Cruising.

Around 85 guests attended the launch event and enjoyed a sunset cruise, including Gill Brian, the Sheriff of Yorkshire, Yorkshire County Cricket Club coach Andrew Gale and the club’s rising star, all-rounder Jack Leaning.

Representatives of Visit York, local authorities, hotels and tourism businesses including York’s Chocolate Story and York Dungeon were also in attendance.

After the traditional ribbon cutting ceremony at Lendal Bridge Landing, performed by City Cruises’ chief executive Rita Beckwith OBE, the boat set sail for a sunset cruise with champagne and canapes served.

Guests were treated to an evening of fun along the River Ouse, soaking in the beautiful views while being entertained by local band Melting Pot Acoustic.

The purchase of York River Boats Cruising on May 5 saw Leading River Thames sightseeing operator City Cruises expand beyond its operations in London and Poole to operating 25 boats in three locations across the UK.

A spokesman for the company said: "The existing York model has a much smaller percentage of trade and internet sales. City Cruises will develop the brand further and widen its distribution channels. York sits on the traditional route for coach tours to Scotland and is a huge draw for tourists both locally and internationally."

The expansion into York added to the brand’s successes in 2016, following the £2.4 million refurbishment of the City Alpha on the Thames and the launch of the third ThamesJet boat.

City Cruises York currently employs 20 staff led by general manager Jo Dykes and has five large passenger boats.

Jo, who has been with the company for more than 20 years, was instrumental in the success of York Boats and is overseeing 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 Sail with Santa Cruise and Christmas Night Cruises throughout the festive season.