Experienced tourism professional Kyle Haughton has joined leading riverboat and restaurant operator City Cruises as its new Managing Director.

Haughton brings with him 25 years experience in the travel and tourism industry, having been Managing Director of First Choice Holidays and most recently Funway Holidays, as well as a Director at BAA Heathrow Express.

As Managing Director he has responsibility for the day-to-day management, as well as strategy development for the long term future of the company. Haughton replaces former Managing Director Rita Beckwith who is now Chief Executive Officer. In her newly created role Beckwith will be concentrating on ensuring that the strategic plans and policies are implemented and strengthening the brand.

Gary Beckwith, Chairman of City Cruises said: `We are delighted to have Kyle onboard in the run up to 2012, which will be a key year for us with the arrival of our new vessel, the 2012 Games River Tour Service and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. His appointment and Rita’s new role mark an important step in the development and future success of the company.’

City Cruises currently operates an all year round sightseeing service, lunch cruises, the London Showboat and special events as well as the Restaurant Ship Hispaniola, which is permanently moored on Victoria Embankment, opposite the EDF Energy London Eye.