New casino boat to set sail in Little River

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LITTLE RIVER, SC (WMBF) - Employees say more than 200 jobs were lost when Sun Cruz closed its doors in December, but a new casino boat is on its way.

Officials involved with the new venture are not releasing much information, but say an announcement is planned for Thursday, March 11 - the same day a job fair is set to begin at the old Sun Cruz site at 4495 Mineola Ave.

Those who work in the area of the docks say they hope the new boat, rumored to be called Aquacino, will help bring a boom in business back to the waterfront.

"It'll bring people here that have never been here," said Jimmy Lupton, who hands out coupons for the casino boats near the docks.

Some restaurant owners near the boats are also looking forward to the new ship.

"A lot of people are talking about it. We're looking forward to it, and hopes it brings a lot of business to us," said Deanna Robertson, who owns the Captain Juel's Hurricane Restaurant and Bar.

Currently, only one casino cruise, Big M Casinos, remains at the Little River docks, but it could have competition soon.

The job fair is set for 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, March 16. A press conference is scheduled for 9 a.m. that day.