New York, NY – Harlem Tourism adds a maritime tour boat, focused on history, culture, and community, to West 125th Street and the Harlem Pier. This new and innovative addition to uptown Manhattan will usher in economic and workforce development, tourism, and community reinvestment, while also contributing to the ever-changing mosaic and cultural significance of Upper Manhattan.
This first-of-its-kind entertainment vessel based uptown, The Harlem Rocket’s first tour boat, will be christened and posthumously dedicated in honor of civil rights icon, The Honorable Hazel N. Dukes, longtime President of the NAACP, New York State Conference. This momentous and history-making African American maritime endeavor and cultural contribution to New York City will take place on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, with a morning media availability to include VIPs, select dignitaries, elected officials, civic, social, and not-for-profit leaders.
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A traditional champagne christening and a celebration of the launch of the first Harlem Rocket vessel will take place, featuring Garry A. Johnson, Founder, and Michael A. Preston, Co-Founder, alongside guests, including representatives from the New York City Economic Development Corporation.
Background
The historic christening of Harlem’s first maritime tour boat will take place at Derecktor Shipyards, located at 311 East Boston Road, Mamaroneck, New York. Completely rebuilt by Derecktor, a renowned New York based shipbuilder, the Harlem Rocket represents more than a new vessel—it marks the start of a transformative era for Harlem’s waterfront.
“We are proud to introduce the Harlem Rocket and launch the Harlem Gateway Waterfront Initiative,” said Garry Anthony Johnson, Founder & CEO of Paradise Express Ferry, LLC, parent company for the Harlem Rocket. “This project is more than a boat tour—it’s about economic empowerment, cultural pride, and creating sustainable opportunities for Harlem’s future. Our waterfront has long been an underutilized asset, and we are excited to bring new life, jobs, and experiences to the community.”
The Harlem Rocket will host up to 100 passengers on vibrant 40-minute journey tours, 6 days per week, along the Hudson River, departing from West Harlem Piers at 125th Street and traveling north to Spuyten Duyvil Creek before returning to the pier. The tour will operate eight times a day, offering locals and visitors alike a memorable way to explore the waterfront along Harlem and Washington Heights, and its significant yet often untold role in New York’s maritime history. Along the route, guests will learn about key figures like Crispus Attucks and Matthew Henson, while taking in stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and surrounding landmarks.
More than a sightseeing attraction, the Harlem Rocket is the first step in the Harlem Gateway Waterfront Initiative, a comprehensive vision to reestablish Harlem’s waterfront as a vital economic, cultural, and educational hub. The initiative aims to create new pathways into maritime careers, foster small business growth through tourism, offer enriching cultural tours, and lay the groundwork for future food distribution solutions in waterfront communities, particularly those affected by food insecurity.
“Harlem has always been a beacon for culture, resilience, and innovation,” said Michael A. Preston, Harlem Rocket Co-Founder and VP Government Affairs & Customer Experience, Paradise Express Ferry, LLC. “This initiative allows us to showcase our past while charting a bold course for future generations.”
Paradise Express Ferry, the parent company of the Harlem Rocket operation, is dedicated to making the Harlem Rocket a lasting symbol of community-led growth, cultural celebration, and economic opportunity with support from sponsors including Raymarine Marine and UniverSoul Circus.
