FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Marcia Hope Goodwin 407-246-3107

GONDEOLA TO MAKE WAVES
ON LAKE EOLA

ORLANDO, FL (June 27, 2003) – On Tuesday, July 1, 2003, at 11 a.m. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orlando City Council member Patty Sheehan will help launch Downtown Orlando’s newest attraction, GondEola.

GondEola, which will be fully operational by July 4, will provide visitors with evening cruises aboard authentic Venetian-style gondolas rowed by serenading gondoliers on Downtown Orlando’s Lake Eola.

GondEola was created by Jeff Campbell, who saw having gondolas on Lake Eola as a way to add something new to downtown Orlando’s evening offerings and further the reputation of Orlando as a cultural and international city. Over a period of several years, the idea was developed, research was completed and a network of contacts in the gondola industry was built. A multi-year contract was granted by the City of Orlando in May 2003.

Located on the southeast corner of Lake Eola, GondEola will operate from a dock adjacent to the International Promenade (behind Lee’s Lakeside). Nearby parking is available in the garage located at the corner of Central and Osceola. GondEola will offer a variety of evening cruises beginning at 5 p.m. and ending when Lake Eola Park closes at midnight.

Gondoliers have been recruited and trained in the skills needed to row the gondolas in the traditional Venetian manner and have been versed on the history and heritage of gondolas.

GondEola’s boats are custom-built, authentic to the asymmetrical style of true Venetian gondolas. Each boat is 32 feet long and can seat six adults. The first boat of the operation, to be “christened” by Mayor Dyer and Commissioner Sheehan on July 1, is being named
“La Citta Bellissomo” – the City Beautiful.

Main cruises will last approximately 40 minutes, will cost $45 a couple and include a keepsake photo. Extra riders are $15. Children 12 and under ride free with a paid adult. A variety of dinner cruises, Champagne cruises and special occasion packages, such as proposals and weddings, will also be available.

Cruises outside of normal business hours can be scheduled for events such as weddings, corporate outings and other daytime functions. On-board weddings will also be made available for lovebirds looking to tie the knot in a unique way.

Following the grand opening July 1, GondEola will be open for business every evening beginning at
5 p.m., weather permitting. For reservation information, call 407-658-4226. For more information, visit www.gondeola.com.

# # #
 

# # #