DINE LIKE “THE DUKE” ABOARD JOHN WAYNE’S HISTORIC YACHT, THE WILD GOOSE
Do you love old movies from the silver screen? Do you live to watch movies like Stagecoach or True Grit? This Memorial weekend, Hornblower Cruises & Events is celebrating one of the greatest screen icons, John Wayne, also known as “The Duke.” To celebrate the famed actor’s birthday, cruise with us on The Duke’s beloved yacht, the Wild Goose, for a once in a lifetime dining experience.
The Famous Wild Goose
For those intrigued by historical relics, look no further than the Wild Goose. For 15 years, the yacht was not only John Wayne’s most prized possession, the 136-foot megayacht was formerly a World War II US Navy mine-sweeper. With a boatload of history on board, a cruise on the famous yacht provides guests with three decks of eye-catching masterpieces, including gorgeous woodwork, intricate carvings and unique amenities. You will even have a chance to peruse an art gallery of priceless paintings by Wayne’s wife, Camille and John Wayne movie posters.
Have you ever wondered how the famous spend their days?
If you have ever wondered how the rich and famous spend their days, come aboard the Wild Goose and cruise as John Wayne did during his later years. Tour The Duke’s specially refit “family-friendly cruiser” where he renovated the master stateroom and his saloon to include a wood-burning fireplace and a built-in wet bar. Despite a few renovations, John Wayne was sure to maintain the boat’s naval heritage, including the old-fashioned swivel wall fans, the bell and a brass wheel in the wheelhouse.
By many, The Wild Goose is understood to have held a special place in John Wayne’s heart. While filming movies, The Duke would fly in just to go aboard the yacht. Even Captain Bert Minshall, the former captain of the Wild Goose, recalls Wayne’s happiest moments sipping brandy, playing chess and reading books aboard the yacht.
Honoring a Legend
In honor of John Wayne’s birthday, The Duke’s Birthday Dining Cruises will offer a unique experience for guests to meet and greet Captain Bert Minshall, also the author of On Board with the Duke. For guests in attendance, the Captain will make select appearances for pictures and autographs on the birthday dinner and brunch cruises. To add to the excitement, get your picture taken with The Duke – an iconic wax figure of John Wayne will be on board, from Madame Tussaud’s Hollywood.
Come aboard for a historical experience and a birthday celebration fit for The Duke. Enjoy glorious sights and sounds of the Newport Beach harbor and kick back as you cruise by beautiful beaches and celebrity mansions, including John Wayne’s former 10-bedroom, 7-bath waterfront mansion, with a new owner.
Book a cruise today!