: Length: 360
Width: 87
Year Built: 1995
Built By: Bender Shipbuilding and Repair Co
Certification: USCG H Class
Dry Dock Date: 2023
The M/V: GRAND PALAIS is a 318’ft x 87’ft x 14’ft passenger ship, built in 1995 by Bender. The Vessel is of
welded steel complying with provisions of USCG Subchapter H (CFR 46, Parts 70 to 90), NVIC 8-93 and USCG
regulations for intact and damaged stability for vessels operating on inland waters. The vessel is longitudinally
framed on 2’ft centers. Transverse frame spacing varies but is nominally 12’ft. The vessel has a plumb bow with a
curving forepeak structure that meets a box hull structure at frame 44. The transom is a square, raked structure.
There are (3) three sponsons aft of the transom. There are (2) two Z- Drives. Functional paddle wheels are fitted
between the (3) three sponsons, (2) two paddle wheels. The vessel is fitted with (2) two bow thrusters. There are
(3) three rudders on the vessel. The vessel is fitted with (2) two sea-chests, Port and Stbd. The main hull
superstructure supports (3) three decks utilized for gaming. Deck (4) four is open with edge railings. A functional
pilot house is raised and forward on the fourth deck.
The vessel has been operated exclusively in Westlake, LA since its initial inspection for certification. The vessel
operates as a dockside gaming casino and is no longer certified for underway operations. It is outfitted with
lifesaving equipment for 2,500 persons. Although not classed, this vessel was constructed generally in accordance
with ABS “Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Intended for Service on Rivers and Intercoastal Waterways”
and “Proposed River Rules for Passenger Vessels of 3 may 1993”
