Boat With Cash Bar Making Waves in OC

Cash bar on board to buck resort community’s alcohol ban?

It’s a first for Ocean City, NJ, a cash bar on a boat docked in a town where you can’t buy alcohol.

Plans for the Crystal Queen paddle wheel boat to sell liquor, but only when it’s out on the water, is making waves in the historically dry resort community.

“Once they get out in the channel they’re allowed to buy it, allowed to buy a drink,” said Arthur Weiler, a Crystal Queen operator.

The boat has a state-issued liquor license to sell drinks on the water. It was previously docked in a different community.

The mayor of Ocean City hasn’t welcomed its arrival with open arms.

“Once they get off the boat, what are we going to deal with?” asked Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian.

Cruise operator Weiler says his business won’t turn the tide on Ocean City’s tradition as a dry town.

The family-oriented seaside resort has prohibited the sale of alcoholic beverages within city limits since its founding back in 1879.

The first lunch and dinner cruises of the Crystal Queen, including a full cash bar, are set to launch on June 25 from Pirates Cove Marina.

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