As a child of 8, in 1958, I came to New York on the SS United States. I remember the grand stair case and the dining room. Spent most of the time in my room sea sick. I still have menus and other memorabilia from the Journey. As we docked photographers came on board, we were blessed to have the Duke and Duchess of Windsor traveling on the ship. My father who was in the Air Force tried to find out where the photos could be found, but had to luck. It was a wonderful memory for me, very long ago.
What a shame the experience was somewhat ruined by sea sickness, hope you still enjoyed the odd day and the food. I always wonder what the food was like on the classic Ocean liners and wether you could get as greedy as you can on a modern cruise ship?
I had the privilege to sail the SS United States in September 1967. My dad was in the US Air Force and was being assigned to England. He was able to secure a voyage on this grand ship. I spent a lot of time in the teen room, watched "To Sir with Love" in the theater. and released balloons off the fan deck to watch them drift up and out over the ocean. On a side note, the ship would toot its whistle as it passed the office where she was designed as a salute when departing. Fond memories!
Man I went on a German ship that size in 65 those ocean liners were fine if you have the time that was the way to go to Europe Took a train a Pullman car from the gulf coast to New York to catch the ship it was really a great way to travel all around wish we could do it today now that I'm older. It was a different world so dam sad
Okay Breman. I think is how you spell it. Now iy has been 60 years ago. Side note I learnef about 20 plus years ago that Seigfreid and Roy were stewards working their way to America
There can be no greater commendation to give to a sailing vessel than that she operated smoothly & efficiently, throughout her career, with no mishaps. This grand old lady of the seas deserves to be restored to her full glory.
Not sure we can call her a grand old lady of the seas when she only sailed for a measly 17 years before being laid up, from which she never returned to operation.. The Queen Mary sailed in continuous service for 31 years. And performed WAR SERVICE in WW2.
@@johnfranklin5277 I see your point of view, friend. Please consider, however, that the SS United States' career occurred at the time when the great trans-Atlantic cruise ships were disappearing. There was, fortunately, no need for her services as a troop carrier. And as pointed out in this documentary, she was considered for the Caribbean cruise run, but the cost of the re-fit was too high. Recall, also, that despite her tragically short career, the RMS Titanic is considered one of the finest passenger cruise vessels to ever sail, & certainly deserves the description "grand old lady of the seas". Thanks for your reply.
@@Kaidhicksii True, with the vessels' style of voyage being the determining factor. Liners travel long distances, usually from point A-B. Cruise vessels normally travel shorter distances, stopping at multiple ports of call. The general designs of the vessels are, for the most part, virtually the same. Thanks much for your kind reply.
The SS United States is still the holder of the Atlantic Record, or Blue Riband. It was always an unofficial record, and it was intended for actual passenger ships in regular service crossing the North Atlantic. The Hales Trophy came very late in the Blue Riband's long history, and while impressive, does not give those who possess it any official record holding status. The owners of that catamaran thing may have gotten their hands on the Hales Trophy on the basis of some technicality, but they do not hold the Atlantic Record. Thank you for mentioning this and helping to set the record straight.
Monsieur, I agree with you... I feel the SS United States holds the record still in both directions. I would tell the owners of that catamaran, build something that's the equivalent of the United States. Put some thought and engineering into it and really earn it. Not some small little boat that pretty much does not compare to what an ocean liner is all about. Great comment as you were thinking what I've always thought all along about what a real Blue Ribband Holder is all about.
Insane that the final 2 holders can still be visited in 2023, even as 2nd and 3rd gen cruise ships are being scrapped. But we'd better hurry, as the QM seems on very shaky ground and the US is probably irreparable.
Another way of looking at it is that most of the documentary was spent telling the audience just how fast the SSUS was, only for it to be revealed at the end that the ship wasn't even as fast as a cross-channel ferry. Go SeaCat!
@@matthewbowen5841 Remember, sir, that this is the year that we begin so send Rockets, Back to the Moon. SS United States will, no doubt, be seen as Eminently Refittable, once the Opportune time presents itself.
This is, without exaggeration, probably one of the best documentaries I’ve seen on SSUS. No dramatization. Excellent research. Simple where simple is needed. Fascinating (and quite frankly inspiring) animations. Great tidbits that otherwise could’ve been missed (I particularly liked the one on the flag message in the ship’s pool area). Explorations of intriguing spaces and so much more. As far as documentaries go, this one is easily in the top 10 for me 👍
@@TankedUpstairs I absolutely am not. You’d be surprised how much I’ve been desensitized to the mainstream over-hyped “documentaries” that turn more to entertainment than education. I much prefer a more laid-back style, but the big streaming services most definitely do not…
It's always nice to get the facts, as with this documentary. Yet you realize they are admitting Germans actually developed the fastest ship. USA funded NAZIS too. Understand the Deception going on, to stand up to it.
Understand what this means, though. The SS United States was a GERMAN SHIP with THREE funnels. What did they do with one of the funnels? The Titanic was built for Bruce Ismay and JP Morgan. It had one fake funnel - to mark it, maybe, for atrack from long distance so nobody would realize? There were many explosions, first being Boiler Room 6, combusting because a bolt was deliberately missing and CPT Smith made the workers stoke it full speed ahead, obviously knowing it would blow up - and CPT Smith locked 1,000 of the passengers in the lower decks by remotely activating the lock tight door. They either burned to death or drowned. So I have a hard time feeling comfortable over what was probably a test ship! Find out where it navigated, too, as a means to an end.
I love the drag race between SS United States and RMS Queen Elizabeth. Two of the greatest express liners of all time. Big U didn't break a sweat, I'm sure. The two of them, side by side at speed in the open ocean, must've been a glorious sight! Thank you for giving us a glimpse of what must've been a breathtaking event seen by a lucky few.
@@monsieurcommissaire1628 Gibbs yes wanted to design build a ship that was indeed his goal was safety first; she is a beauty; 100 feet longer than the titanic. She could be converted to a troop vessel if needed. She still holds the blue riband for transatlantic travel. It must have been grand to sail on her in the 50's; 60's. Well done William Francis Gibbs and staff. She is still a beauty; unfortunately not cared for like a grand lady she is; should have been cared for; for many years.
When I watch PBS and the BBC, this is the quality of documentary I'm looking for. Thank you for your research and passion in sharing your hard work with us.
As a child, my family used to go to Ocean City, NJ every summer on vacation. And we’d drive through Philadelphia to get there. I was already obsessed with ships, and had read every single book about the titanic that I could get my hands on. So the first year we tried a different road around the city, and took the Walt Whitman bridge for the first time, i happened to look out to my left…… and I saw her. Just sitting there. Rusted out and decayed. But she was still one of the coolest things I’d ever seen. Every year after that, every time we drove through the city, I’d always look forward to seeing that huge ship by the bridge. It was only years later I learned what that ship actually was. I desperately hope that someone finds a way to restore her someday. I’d love to sail/stay on her if that ever is a possibility.
Sorry to hear that😔. Being from Pennsylvania, and having to vacation at Ocean City, NJ. Where's there's no normalcy, alcohol, and drenched with Methodist psycho's🙄. Why didn't they try a decent place, like Wildwood🤔???
About 9 years ago, when I lived in Claymont Delaware, I contacted to Conservancy and asked if I could go near her to film. They said I could, but not onto the pier itself. I had hoped to get a group of my friends together to go film, but life got in the way. Shortly after, we moved to just outside of Toledo Ohio. I am glad they let you have such unprecedented access to this grand old ship. Great documentary!
Several years ago I was driving in Philadelphia, looked out the window and was absolutely mesmerized by the sight of what was clearly once a majestic ship, and I thought about how great it would be to explore it now and see what it looked like inside. And years later I get my wish! Thank you so much!
This video was better produced than most of the major studios. Clearly, a labor of love based on the exhaustive research, filming and post-production elements. Great job!
My dad was a navy man, and I adored ocean liners as a child. As a result of these two things I’ve always thought ocean liners had a soul, and seeing a ship on the way to be scrapped was almost enough to bring me to tears. Thank you for this incredible visit. It almost hurts imagining this ship back in service, something which came close to happening several times but just never came about.
I've been researching this incredible ship for over 3 years now, and nearly the entire time shes been my favorite. Nowadays I don't find videos about the ship that contain any new information to me, but this video by far has been the best i've ever seen about the ship, and I learned many things from it, kudos Part-Time Explorer, another amazing video.
One of the best interior looks at the ship from recent years. It's easy to dispairingly think of the ship as just a gutted shell, but contextualizing those empty, stripped spaces as former cabins and cafes gives some perspective not only of what the ship liked like in her prime but what it would take to recreate it.
I have been an ocean liner lover since I was a kid, I am now 72. I had such a passion for them that at 10 years old I was building plastic models of anything related to liners that I could find and drawing my own ship designs with the thought of maybe one day being a Marine Architect. That didn't happen but my love for these wonderful ships still live on. My Dad worked on Norwegian American Line during the same period of the SS United States. We had moved to NY from Norway around 1955. My mom would take me to the piers in NYC to visit Dad when he came into port. The ship did the NYC to Oslo, Norway run. I loved going on board. I can still smell the diesel fuel and the aromas of the kitchens as Dad was a Chef onboard. I loved this film and it brought back so many memories of an era that was so fantastic for me and many others. It is a shame that most will never know how truly wonderful, exciting and romantic it was. I say thanks to the producers for making such a nice documentary and I say thanks for bringing back so many memories . I truly hope with all my heart that this great ship will be saved and repurposed, as it holds so much history.
Just wanted to give a huge cheers to your entire team! The narrative, story, editing, and production quality are second to none. from your fans in Canada: Thank you!
I can't help but join the chorus of praise here. I've watched a lot of videos on your channel in the last weeks and this is a high note even in your stupidly high standards. I absolutely adore the care and research you put into everything you put out. I really feel like I'm getting the complete story when watching one of your videos, not only half of it as with many others. Cheers to all of you who created this!
My family came to the US on that ship in 1968, I was only 2 and my Brother was 5 and sisters were teens. My mother was British and father was American in the Military. I use to have a all metal mini model of the ship. I’m hoping to visit the ship with my daughter’s some day. Fantastic Documentary! You truly did a great job!
I do love these animations! They just set that special mood. Also at 57:04 you can see that the propellers had a defect and at high speeds they created bubbles reducing efficiency and slowly eating away at the ships propellers.
the propellers were hidden from the public and classified. the propellers were state of the art engineering to minimize cavitation. any other propeller would have been eaten alive by cavitation
It wasn't a defect, but rather a common phenomenon that persists today on ship propellers known as cavitation. Basically, depending on their shape and location, the props stir up a lot of bubbles when in motion which gradually eats away at them. The United States, in her 17-year career, has quite a small amount of cavitation compared to other vessels, thanks to her propeller arrangement: 4 bladed at the front and 5 bladed at the rear, to better churn through the water without causing as many bubbles.
Each time the ship appears in the background, its size makes it look unreal. The largest ship I've been able to tour was the Battleship USS Massachusetts in Fall River, Mass. The SS United States simply dwarfs BB-59. Just incredible. Excellent video! I can only imagine what the ocean liner era was like, but this video makes it so much easier to visualize. Thanks!
@baritonebynight Also, none of the parts used to restore her would be made in America. The ship in her current state is a direct analogy for the country she's named after.
$700 million lol. They won't find anyone. You can buy a couple brand new giant ocean liners for that price. $700 million is where it would start. It's a lost cause for something that old even though it's still the fastest. MV Astoria oldest ship still in service today. They wanted 12 million for that. Still going to the scrapper since nobody bid and that ships ready now. Lol Generous Billionaire is where it would start. For sure by a long shot. You'd need somebody to be willing to lose their pants big time. Won't happen. I think the idea of it being revived is great but I don't see anyone willing to put that kinda money in. It won't pay itself off. Also speeds not needed today for cruises. Nobody's paying $4,000 to be back in a day lol. That's why nobody makes them go faster. It would be cheaper to scratch build by a long shot if they wanted too and crush the SS USAs speed record lol. Kinda like the Concorde Jet. I'm afraid of 747 now. No need to do it. Even if refit as a hotel or condos. Again I think SS USA is just too far gone to even want to try as far as cost. Maybe they get somebody with deep pockets or somebody has an idea. I just don't see it. Longer it takes the more likely it goes for scrap.
A mighty ship! This past December (2022) a long time wish came true and I was able to walk the Big U's decks, see an engine room, and even climb the main mast. Even more special was meeting Susan Gibs, William Francis Gibbs's granddaughter. One can still feel the mighty power of the liner. The SS US conservancy is a great organization if one decides to donate.
This is the best SS United States video I have seen online. Worthy of television- really well done - great tie in to both past and present. I really enjoyed this thank you! Seeing this ship moored at pier 82 all these years, it’s just such a shame that she is going to be sunk instead of repurposed. This video will preserver her.
As someone who has never been on a cruise because I'm terrified of anything going wrong, I respect Gibbs going overboard on safety. If it's ever restored, I'll be first in line to get on board. Thank you for the incredible video.
It will never cruise ever again. Two cruise companies explored that possibility, and both determined it wasn't economically feasible. The only hope for saving the ship is a redevelopment deal, which is currently being explored by RXR Development.
I still can't believe that a country as mighty as the USA will let this amazing piece of american history to be lost forever... Seems that the USA is not a great country anymore...
This documentary is well done. Thanks for sharing. Congratulations…in my research, I found that my Dad served on the SS United States from Dec 1953-Sep 1955 as a Deck officer. The last 5 trips of his 37 trips on her, he was Chief Officer. He was later transferred to become the Chief Officer of the SS America.
I really admire and enjoy your work… and the incredible passion you have for your subject matter. My dad sailed on S.S. United States in 1962 in first class, as a teenager with his grandfather. Thank you for your dedication to preserving a bygone era!
My parents and I sailed on the Blue Riband voyage. I was two years old and my first memory is of that voyage. Your wonderful documentary triggered other memories of the ship. My parents were first class passengers, and I remembered the promenade deck, the children's nursery, and other things. Thank you, it gave me goosebumps seeing her in her glory...
I’d still have taken this incredible, comfortable, and safe cruise over the comet jets… we all know how well that ended! This whole video I was instinctively waiting for a disaster even though I knew it wasn’t coming 😂 very soothing glimpse back in time though and awesome work as usual 😊
Of course, the Comet jets didn't fly across the Atlantic until 1958, by which time they had been investigated and redesigned. But like you, if I was around then and wanted to cross the Atlantic (and been able to afford it!) I'd also have gone by ocean liner...
Wow, I remember seeing her towed into Philly back in 1996. Now 25 years later she’s been sitting there docked the same amount of time she was in service. My uncle rode her back in the 60’s.
It's a shame it's just there deteriorating, they should restore it back to its original condition or something, or just sink it since it's just deteriorating. I think restore it to its original condition and have it go on small cruises it would definitely make a profit. Or turn it into a hospital ship or a museum.
i was quite young when we set out in the middle of the night from North Hampton to South Hampton to board the SS United States, the year 1964, my father was American US Air Force and my mother was a Liverpudlian. I was 7yrs old and in charge of my bother and sister and belongings. Standing there absolutely in awe of this most beautiful boat, the four of us my mom, sis, ,brother, and myself had no comprehension of the adventure staring back at us. Since my father was military he when to a separate quarters than us, in the lower deck. i remember our small cabin with two bed and bunks that dropped down from the wall, we were excited, couldnt contain our curiosity and need to totally explore this ship, as i was corrected from saying boat by the steward, and we three did exactly that, explored. From watching movies to golden bouillon on deck to being privileged to dine with the Captain, because our mother experienced dreadful sea sickness. I remember the most beautiful shrimp cocktails i had ever seen or eaten but i also remember a storm where the waves were tossing the ship and the crew had tied ropes along the decks so you could hold on in case you lost your footing. Funny, the movie showing was the Unsinkable Molly Brown with Debbie Reynolds. I look back at this ocean voyage as a dream sometimes but it was the most memorable, fantastic, eye opening experience of my childhood especially when we approached New York Harbor and the great lady herself, Miss Liberty. From the air you really dont get the full quintessential essence of her as you do passing , her, staring from the deck of a ocean liner, your heart beating fast, as she welcomes you to the new world you soon become a part of, leaving you with a vision in your head that can never be replaced in your mind. i consider my whole experience as a young girl on SS United States will never diminish, I feel privileged, and probably should thank the military for booking us. I am now 66yrs old and have experienced numerous cruise lines, but none, and i mean none, have touched me in spirit, awe, and overwhelming as SS United States, she set the standards of cruising for me maybe because I was young and impressionable but no its her and what she represented to me.
@@kimdearing9660 i went on a german ship S S Breman and my trip was very much like yours my mom stayed sea sick also. Dam that was 1965 another lifetime ago. Say it aint so 😄
I’m so sad to know that Jordan and Eric have both passed. I’m sure I knew of it, but this reminded me of the length of the fight to save this treasure has been. RIP and thanks for your service
You look so dapper around 39:00! And your pocket square is very well matched to the ship's vintage aesthetic. I don't actually know anything about ships, I just find these documentaries interesting and relaxing lol
I watch your channel without video due to being at work or the gym. You do a great job of giving enough information and story telling to coherently understand without needing visuals!
I sailed on the SS United States in June 1957 from NYC to Southampton and was berthed in the 1st Class cabin #2 Port side Sun Deck. It was a fabulous cruise that I will always remember. Your video brought back many fond memories. I returned to the US aboard the sister ship SS America in June 1959. Thank you.
Really enjoyed this presentation. I first saw the Big U from the decks of QE2 in Southampton during a tour of the new Queen in June 1969. Several other great liners such as Andes were in port and as a nine year old it was fascinating. I was lucky enough to visit the US whilst she was in Virginia after a QE2 transatlantic, now as a qualified naval architect. I always thought she had great potential and as SS Rotterdam and others have shown, hotel ships and museums can be successful.
Another wonderful documentary. Watched this on my commute to work and enjoyed all of it. Thank you for putting in all the hard work and sharing it with us.
I love this channel! Every documentary on these luxury liners are so fascinating. Thank you for sharing your passion with us, as you’re so thorough and knowledgeable and you leave no questions unanswered. Fantastic job about a luxury ship I never knew even existed. Absolutely amazing!
I listened to this video this morning while working around the house. Now, 12 hours later, my wife & I are enjoying the visuals together. Great video, thanks.
I sailed on the SS United States from New York to La Havre. It was a wonderful voyage and I have so many warm memories. It was such a surprise to see this video on Y-Tube. I have so many mementoes from my trip that I would like to share. Eva
Finally had time to sit and watch. You have outdone yourself with this one, Tom! absolutely amazing. I’m a member of the SSUSC and I know every bit helps.
I've never really given the SS United States much thought but after this video I've come to love her, she is a remarkable vessel and its tragic she's in the way she is. Regardless though this video was bloody amazing thank you so much for the constantly engaging, interesting and informative content, please please keep it up!
Well, I think there are plenty of people in 2024 that would pay for a cruise on a restored vintage oceanliner. Even if it would be way more expensive than a cruise on one of those monstrosities nowadays. I would never pay that amount of money to be crammed in basically a floating two star Turkish all in resort looking like a social housing flat with 5,500 people. But I would pay for a cruise on a replica of the Normandie or a restored QM or US.
Yes , I Love the memories I had as an 8 y/o on the SS United States .. Leaving New York in 1963 on the transatlantic voyage , my Mother and 5 y/o Sister ventured to SouthHampton without our husband and Father .. he had to work and allowed us to travel to visit my Mother's family . Both my parents were born in Scotland .. Shuffleboard was a keen sport that we enjoyed , our young age 😊 And Mother had us sing 'Hey There Georgie Girl' and 'These Boots are Made for Walking' in an entertainment spot .. What a privilege to be such a part of History 🚢
🚢. I joined friends on a cruise late in scheduling once, so the only cabins remaining were on the lowest level, same as the Ships Staff/Enployees. I didnt want a roomy, so I had the room to myself and I had a Porthole! I slept like a baby in a cradle. It was close to both the Exit for excursions and "the Anchor", that was a "Wake-up Call" when they dropped Anchor, the Chain was quite noisy. I still so enjoyed my cruise, had a fabulous Steward. The following cruises I booked Suites, except for my next to last, I booked the Penthouse, and it was Fabulous. Has 2 prepared Coctail Parties and we had Bunko in my Dining Room twice. A Jacuzzi on my Balcony. Wish I had done this many more times. Always take time to treat yourself 1st Class. Be good to your you. Bon Voyage! ⚓ 🗽 This Ship deserves some Respect, Service and /or Historical Status and Protection. Let her offer Transatlantic Cruises again. ⚓ 🚢 🇺🇲
I am so sad they will be sinking her. So depressing. Glad we will have documentaries like this to remember her by. What a well designed and built ship. Gibbs would be proud to see her still with us but incredibly sad to see her fall into disarray like this.
@lorigarza9971 absolutely William Francis Gibbs would be more than ❤ broken to see his beautiful lady; not cared for; for the years she has been out of service. She is still a beauty !!
This was a good final video to watch before I shut everything off for this new college semester. Having spent a summer volunteering aboard the retired Navy destroyer, USS Cassin Young (DD-793), I can now easily take one look at the United States' interiors as they currently are and identify her as a Navy vessel. This was a phenomenal documentary you and your team have done on her, from the incredible UE5 animations - one of which I almost mistook for real footage it's that great - to the never-before-seen areas inside the ship that are still semi-preserved as they were, namely, the lower cabins and corridors which weren't fully stripped. You guys were incredibly lucky to have gotten this opportunity from the Conservancy, and I wish them all the continued support in one day restoring this beautiful liner - a dream come to life, a technological masterpiece, America incarnate - for a second life, shining out as a beacon for all to see. I still call rubbish on not building her to 1,000' though. When the Panama Canal was originally built in 1903, the original locks were 110' wide. It's obviously gotten wider since. The United States is 101.5' wide. My very rough estimation is that, if she were built to 1,000' rather than 990', that her width would have been only a foot wider at most, at 102.5'. Still plenty of space to squeeze through the canal, surely. X'D Also, two remaining questions. One: couldn't USL have just kept her cruising speed at 35 knots after her maiden voyage rather than slowing down to 30-32? After all, that was her designed service speed, and her range called for sailing ~10,000 miles without refueling, while still maintaining 35 knots. Yeah, more speed means more fuel, but surely it couldn't have been that much more? It would drastically set her apart from the competition: while every other liner would take 4-5 days to cross on average, the Big U could regularly cross in 3, making her a premium feature on the Atlantic run. Two: suppose Prohibition wasn't a thing in the 20s and that the Leviathan got to experience the same mostly flawless and perfect career that the United States would 3 decades later. Considering it was briefly the most popular ship on the Atlantic after its maiden voyage, how successful do you think its career would have been in the long run?
They slowed the United States down because its running mate, the SS America was a 22.5 knot ship. USL had no real need for her great speed, but the Pentagon (that subsidized most of the cost of construction) did. They wanted a large troopship that could fit through the Panama Canal and also had the speed to outrun enemy submarines.
Tragic how she's been allowed to deteriorate, but so glad she's still there. The overlay of the historical pictures over the current structure was amazingly well done.
Incredible job on the complete history of the ship. As with so many great liners, it is sad to see it just... left there. I really do hope that it gets restored and enjoys a good second life like the QE2 has. I'm kind of surprised that Ocean Liners aren't also coming back into popularity, given how _awful_ flying has become (experience wise). I would much rather take a few days to cross the ocean in comfort than a few hours crammed into a plane.
That's one of the reasons why I'm currently in college pursing a major in mechanical engineering. Like Gibbs, my dream is to design a vessel that will revolutionize the cruise industry, and hopefully even, maybe, reignite the transatlantic passenger trade. Also like Gibbs and his ship, my ship is heavily classified, as I've only shared info on it with a handful of people to date. I plan to share preliminary designs and details on Reddit at some point in the near future though. :)
Informative and enjoyable. I have a special memory of the ship. My family lived in the Bronx, and my dad had clients in Brooklyn. I wasn’t even ten years old. We often drove down the West Side Highway, and my eyes would pop out if the ship was berthed that morning. Dad finally pulled into the parking lot (it must’ve been my birthday!), and asked if they offered tours. I don’t know if it was free or a nominal fee, but we were able to climb the gangway and enter to see a few big public rooms. I probably walked ten feet off the ground for a year after!
Excellent job on what I think is your best film yet! Excellent quality and very well done! I have seen quite a few films about the SS United States, but your is the best for showing the conceptual idea, to the building, its career, and its current standing. The "Then and Now" comparison clips were great to bring the history alive to this noble ship. Thank you for creating this!
3:17 Can we just take a moment to appreciate how the SS America was rocking the backwards hat look on its smokestacks long before it was even considered cool?
Absolute best video concerning ships I have seen. My father helped in her construction. His gang was responsible for forming steel plates that would be used on her hull. He often called her 'his' ship. When she left Newport News for her sea trials, dad took the family to the coast of Hampton Roads to watch her sail out to see. She was so large, beautiful, and majestic. Maybe one day, she will have her beauty returned. I wish you could have shown her being constructed. Once her hull was completed, photos were not allowed to be taken. Only workers knew what secrets she contained inside her hull.
What a perfect metaphor for the country for which she's named. Just as the era of the great ocean liners is long gone, and as the beauty of this, the greatest of the great, so has gone the country for which she is named.
What a great video on the Bug U. Job well done. I been following her since the late 1980s and when she showed up so to speak on my doorstep i been hoping and praying a future is found for her. She has been waiting for a long time and she needs to be saved
I drive by this ship all the time for years, recently saying to my kids it’s an eyesore that should be scuttled into the Atlantic. I am shocked by this rich history and let’s see if it can find a second life. Thanks for making this exceptional documentary as usual.
In 1970, my parents inherited the house of Charles B Gilbert, a friend and the artist responsible for drawing the beautiful sea life used to cut into the glass. In his studio, we discovered the original drawings. I always wondered how wonderful these glass panels must have looked. Tonight I happened upon this video about the US United States and got a short glimpse of these panels. Thank you very much!
Great presentation. Much appreciated. In 1990 I was visiting my brother in Virginia and we spotted the distant silhouette of a massive ship near the waterfront. We drove for quite a while getting closer. When we got near, we realized it was the SS United States. It was awesome and still is. I hope it succeeds in being preserved. -Steve Magnante
Good video! A few corrections: 1) The ship actually averaged 28.5 knots on transatlantic crossings. She ran at 32 knots for part of the trip & then slowed down. 2)The ship's average occupancy rate was 78% in the 1950s, 65% in the sixties, and 71% for her career. 3) The SSUS was in service for over 17 years. 4) The America was officially retired in 1964. 5) SSUS did not make 400 voyages. This included cancelled trips.
Beautiful documentary and music!! This was a fabulous video about an American passenger ship! Thank you for showing off the past glories and achievements of the United States!
Enjoyed your coverage of this beautiful ship. As a lifelong Philly resident I have always appreciated this vessel and wished to see it come back to life in some way, but such is life.
If you want to see the SS United States before they sink it off the coast of Florida please go to Philadelphia pier 82 and do it before October 29 2024😢
Excellent documentary! I was 12 yrs old when my family sailed the United States from France to New York. My dad even had his Packard shipped back to the States on board the ship. The car was originally shipped across to Europe on the Andrea Doria, which we sailed on three times. I still have some "souvenirs" that mom took off each ship. Some cocktail silverware from the Andrea Doria and a Vanity tray from our cabin on the United States. We always traveled first class. I was so fortunate to have sailed both ships. It is truly sad to see the ship stripped and not even having the glorious exterior painting in tact.
I've loved this ship for years. I hope the conservationists can get the money to save her. I'd love to sail on her one day. Edit: Apparently she's undergoing restoration for a static hotel, and she'll never sail again. That breaks my heart, but I guess it's better than her going to the scrapper. I guess it prevents her being lost at sea as well.
That's old news. $700 million+ is what it would take. Every company is gonna roll over laughing and run for the hills with that price tag. Hotel or refit and running again. Won't happen. It's going to rust some more. You can buy brand new working ocean liners (plural) for that price. I'm sure companies explored the option. And I'll gurantee they ran as soon as they crunched the numbers. That's what you saw back in 2021.
The narration is truly upper class. I've listened to many of these videos in the last few weeks. I'm sure that given the correct platform.. the rest of the world would enjoy these educational glimpses of history.. yet he does these as a side hobby!
Update on the SS United States October 5th 2024 The has been sold for 1 million dollars to OKALOOSA county Florida and its done deal. It will be prepared in Newport news shipping dock and then towed to Florida for sinking November 1st 2024. All paid for by OKALOOSA county Florida. I know about this because I volunteer to help save the ship. But there's nothing more I can do. Sorry to you all. Its done deal. 😢😢
My father and Grandfather sailed together on the SS United States as passengers. I still possess the souvenier playing cards that they brought off their voyage. Their voyage took place in the 1950's long before I was born but I remember my father telling me of the crossing in rough seas. He remarked on what an adventure it was. This is quite a video! Thank you for sharing.
@@randomrazr there are many tutorials on UA-cam some very good ones.. and unreal engine is free from the epic games launcher.. anyone can learn it.. the skill is the artwork.. and being a competent 3D artist .. I wish you well
Wonderful,We sailed on her twice, eastbound to leHarve,1966 and 69,first class,courtesy of the United States State Dept. My father was chief medical officer for the American Embassies 'behind the iron curtain'.(Balkans) We took a new 66 Ford along as well. Family donated all the paper,tickets, streamers,menus etc to the Steamship Historical Society, R.I. THANKS for the memory jog,you did an outstanding job !
As a child of 8, in 1958, I came to New York on the SS United States. I remember the grand stair case and the dining room. Spent most of the time in my room sea sick. I still have menus and other memorabilia from the Journey. As we docked photographers came on board, we were blessed to have the Duke and Duchess of Windsor traveling on the ship. My father who was in the Air Force tried to find out where the photos could be found, but had to luck. It was a wonderful memory for me, very long ago.
What a great story!! My parents came from England and Italy! They were on one of the Queens! Mary or Elizabeth.
Maybe you find the photos one day❤
What a shame the experience was somewhat ruined by sea sickness, hope you still enjoyed the odd day and the food. I always wonder what the food was like on the classic Ocean liners and wether you could get as greedy as you can on a modern cruise ship?
Wow!! What a cool experience!! Thank you for sharing!
Cool story, thank you!
I had the privilege to sail the SS United States in September 1967. My dad was in the US Air Force and was being assigned to England. He was able to secure a voyage on this grand ship. I spent a lot of time in the teen room, watched "To Sir with Love" in the theater. and released balloons off the fan deck to watch them drift up and out over the ocean. On a side note, the ship would toot its whistle as it passed the office where she was designed as a salute when departing. Fond memories!
What a grand adventure
How awesome!
Man I went on a German ship that size in 65 those ocean liners were fine if you have the time that was the way to go to Europe Took a train a Pullman car from the gulf coast to New York to catch the ship it was really a great way to travel all around wish we could do it today now that I'm older. It was a different world so dam sad
@@ronaldhall2489really? What was her name, I’d love to see a picture of her!
Okay Breman. I think is how you spell it. Now iy has been 60 years ago. Side note I learnef about 20 plus years ago that Seigfreid and Roy were stewards working their way to America
These big documentaries are insane. It’s like this is a TV channel for ships and exploration.
Couldn't agree more mate! Well put! Cheers!
This is my favorite channel on UA-cam!
What is a "big documentary" ? It's only an hour long
What are "these"?
Why do you say "insain" as if the navy can't exist?
@Auschwitz Soccer Ref. Good point. The comment we are responding to is idiotic.
It’s computer game graphics
There can be no greater commendation to give to a sailing vessel than that she operated smoothly & efficiently, throughout her career, with no mishaps. This grand old lady of the seas deserves to be restored to her full glory.
Not sure we can call her a grand old lady of the seas when she only sailed for a measly 17 years before being laid up, from which she never returned to operation..
The Queen Mary sailed in continuous service for 31 years. And performed WAR SERVICE in WW2.
@@johnfranklin5277 I see your point of view, friend. Please consider, however, that the SS United States' career occurred at the time when the great trans-Atlantic cruise ships were disappearing. There was, fortunately, no need for her services as a troop carrier. And as pointed out in this documentary, she was considered for the Caribbean cruise run, but the cost of the re-fit was too high. Recall, also, that despite her tragically short career, the RMS Titanic is considered one of the finest passenger cruise vessels to ever sail, & certainly deserves the description "grand old lady of the seas". Thanks for your reply.
@@cdfdesantis699 Ocean liners, not cruise ships. Big difference. Otherwise though, you make a solid point.
@@Kaidhicksii True, with the vessels' style of voyage being the determining factor. Liners travel long distances, usually from point A-B. Cruise vessels normally travel shorter distances, stopping at multiple ports of call. The general designs of the vessels are, for the most part, virtually the same. Thanks much for your kind reply.
All you have to do is win, the Mega Millions jackpot, and you got yourself, an ocean liner😁!!
The SS United States is still the holder of the Atlantic Record, or Blue Riband. It was always an unofficial record, and it was intended for actual passenger ships in regular service crossing the North Atlantic. The Hales Trophy came very late in the Blue Riband's long history, and while impressive, does not give those who possess it any official record holding status. The owners of that catamaran thing may have gotten their hands on the Hales Trophy on the basis of some technicality, but they do not hold the Atlantic Record. Thank you for mentioning this and helping to set the record straight.
Monsieur, I agree with you... I feel the SS United States holds the record still in both directions. I would tell the owners of that catamaran, build something that's the equivalent of the United States. Put some thought and engineering into it and really earn it. Not some small little boat that pretty much does not compare to what an ocean liner is all about. Great comment as you were thinking what I've always thought all along about what a real Blue Ribband Holder is all about.
Insane that the final 2 holders can still be visited in 2023, even as 2nd and 3rd gen cruise ships are being scrapped. But we'd better hurry, as the QM seems on very shaky ground and the US is probably irreparable.
Another way of looking at it is that most of the documentary was spent telling the audience just how fast the SSUS was, only for it to be revealed at the end that the ship wasn't even as fast as a cross-channel ferry. Go SeaCat!
@@scottread I mean... a jetski is faster still. Apples to horseshoes here.
@@matthewbowen5841 Remember, sir, that this is the year that we begin so send Rockets, Back to the Moon. SS United States will, no doubt, be seen as Eminently Refittable, once the Opportune time presents itself.
This is, without exaggeration, probably one of the best documentaries I’ve seen on SSUS. No dramatization. Excellent research. Simple where simple is needed. Fascinating (and quite frankly inspiring) animations. Great tidbits that otherwise could’ve been missed (I particularly liked the one on the flag message in the ship’s pool area). Explorations of intriguing spaces and so much more.
As far as documentaries go, this one is easily in the top 10 for me 👍
All of his videos are like this. Thoroughly researched with high production standards.
Ye
@@TankedUpstairs I absolutely am not. You’d be surprised how much I’ve been desensitized to the mainstream over-hyped “documentaries” that turn more to entertainment than education. I much prefer a more laid-back style, but the big streaming services most definitely do not…
It's always nice to get the facts, as with this documentary. Yet you realize they are admitting Germans actually developed the fastest ship. USA funded NAZIS too. Understand the Deception going on, to stand up to it.
Understand what this means, though.
The SS United States was a GERMAN SHIP with THREE funnels. What did they do with one of the funnels?
The Titanic was built for Bruce Ismay and JP Morgan. It had one fake funnel - to mark it, maybe, for atrack from long distance so nobody would realize? There were many explosions, first being Boiler Room 6, combusting because a bolt was deliberately missing and CPT Smith made the workers stoke it full speed ahead, obviously knowing it would blow up - and CPT Smith locked 1,000 of the passengers in the lower decks by remotely activating the lock tight door. They either burned to death or drowned.
So I have a hard time feeling comfortable over what was probably a test ship! Find out where it navigated, too, as a means to an end.
I love the drag race between SS United States and RMS Queen Elizabeth. Two of the greatest express liners of all time. Big U didn't break a sweat, I'm sure. The two of them, side by side at speed in the open ocean, must've been a glorious sight! Thank you for giving us a glimpse of what must've been a breathtaking event seen by a lucky few.
@notfiveo
Yeah, Big U's interiors weren't super plush, but Gibbs was obsessed with fireproofing her, so materials choices were somewhat limited.
Stripping the interior means: on death row…a short vision decision
@@monsieurcommissaire1628 Gibbs yes wanted to design build a ship that was indeed his goal was safety first; she is a beauty; 100 feet longer than the titanic. She could be converted to a troop vessel if needed. She still holds the blue riband for transatlantic travel. It must have been grand to sail on her in the 50's; 60's. Well done William Francis Gibbs and staff. She is still a beauty; unfortunately not cared for like a grand lady she is; should have been cared for; for many years.
When I watch PBS and the BBC, this is the quality of documentary I'm looking for. Thank you for your research and passion in sharing your hard work with us.
As a child, my family used to go to Ocean City, NJ every summer on vacation. And we’d drive through Philadelphia to get there. I was already obsessed with ships, and had read every single book about the titanic that I could get my hands on. So the first year we tried a different road around the city, and took the Walt Whitman bridge for the first time, i happened to look out to my left…… and I saw her. Just sitting there. Rusted out and decayed. But she was still one of the coolest things I’d ever seen. Every year after that, every time we drove through the city, I’d always look forward to seeing that huge ship by the bridge. It was only years later I learned what that ship actually was. I desperately hope that someone finds a way to restore her someday. I’d love to sail/stay on her if that ever is a possibility.
Same, it the other way around. Instead I see her when going to Camden to USS New Jersey. I live a 40min away from Ocean city.
I've really debated driving to Philly just to check out the Big U from a distance lol. Just haven't made the 8-hour one way pilgrimage yet.
@@MineTwine45 well you can see her from the stern of BB NJ
Greetings fellow Titanic/general maritime enthusiast
Sorry to hear that😔. Being from Pennsylvania, and having to vacation at Ocean City, NJ. Where's there's no normalcy, alcohol, and drenched with Methodist psycho's🙄. Why didn't they try a decent place, like Wildwood🤔???
About 9 years ago, when I lived in Claymont Delaware, I contacted to Conservancy and asked if I could go near her to film. They said I could, but not onto the pier itself. I had hoped to get a group of my friends together to go film, but life got in the way. Shortly after, we moved to just outside of Toledo Ohio. I am glad they let you have such unprecedented access to this grand old ship. Great documentary!
Several years ago I was driving in Philadelphia, looked out the window and was absolutely mesmerized by the sight of what was clearly once a majestic ship, and I thought about how great it would be to explore it now and see what it looked like inside. And years later I get my wish! Thank you so much!
This video was better produced than most of the major studios. Clearly, a labor of love based on the exhaustive research, filming and post-production elements. Great job!
My dad was a navy man, and I adored ocean liners as a child. As a result of these two things I’ve always thought ocean liners had a soul, and seeing a ship on the way to be scrapped was almost enough to bring me to tears. Thank you for this incredible visit. It almost hurts imagining this ship back in service, something which came close to happening several times but just never came about.
I've been researching this incredible ship for over 3 years now, and nearly the entire time shes been my favorite. Nowadays I don't find videos about the ship that contain any new information to me, but this video by far has been the best i've ever seen about the ship, and I learned many things from it, kudos Part-Time Explorer, another amazing video.
One of the best interior looks at the ship from recent years. It's easy to dispairingly think of the ship as just a gutted shell, but contextualizing those empty, stripped spaces as former cabins and cafes gives some perspective not only of what the ship liked like in her prime but what it would take to recreate it.
I have been an ocean liner lover since I was a kid, I am now 72. I had such a passion for them that at 10 years old I was building plastic models of anything related to liners that I could find and drawing my own ship designs with the thought of maybe one day being a Marine Architect. That didn't happen but my love for these wonderful ships still live on. My Dad worked on Norwegian American Line during the same period of the SS United States. We had moved to NY from Norway around 1955. My mom would take me to the piers in NYC to visit Dad when he came into port. The ship did the NYC to Oslo, Norway run. I loved going on board. I can still smell the diesel fuel and the aromas of the kitchens as Dad was a Chef onboard.
I loved this film and it brought back so many memories of an era that was so fantastic for me and many others. It is a shame that most will never know how truly wonderful, exciting and romantic it was. I say thanks to the producers for making such a nice documentary and I say thanks for bringing back so many memories . I truly hope with all my heart that this great ship will be saved and repurposed, as it holds so much history.
Best of times my friend.
Just wanted to give a huge cheers to your entire team! The narrative, story, editing, and production quality are second to none. from your fans in Canada: Thank you!
I can't help but join the chorus of praise here. I've watched a lot of videos on your channel in the last weeks and this is a high note even in your stupidly high standards.
I absolutely adore the care and research you put into everything you put out. I really feel like I'm getting the complete story when watching one of your videos, not only half of it as with many others. Cheers to all of you who created this!
It's pretty sad seeing how much of her interior was stripped down. But she is definitely a throwback ocean liner that refuses to die.
If only the Titanic were in such good shape!
@@thomasewing2656 They are trying to make a new Titanic.
My family came to the US on that ship in 1968, I was only 2 and my Brother was 5 and sisters were teens. My mother was British and father was American in the Military. I use to have a all metal mini model of the ship. I’m hoping to visit the ship with my daughter’s some day. Fantastic Documentary! You truly did a great job!
I saw it last year what a mess. I stood their and cried remembering how my coming here on it changed my life forever
@@christinewillcox-jones3028 I hope someone will have the money to do something with it.
I do love these animations! They just set that special mood.
Also at 57:04 you can see that the propellers had a defect and at high speeds they created bubbles reducing efficiency and slowly eating away at the ships propellers.
I noticed that. Cavitation.
the propellers were hidden from the public and classified. the propellers were state of the art engineering to minimize cavitation. any other propeller would have been eaten alive by cavitation
It wasn't a defect, but rather a common phenomenon that persists today on ship propellers known as cavitation. Basically, depending on their shape and location, the props stir up a lot of bubbles when in motion which gradually eats away at them. The United States, in her 17-year career, has quite a small amount of cavitation compared to other vessels, thanks to her propeller arrangement: 4 bladed at the front and 5 bladed at the rear, to better churn through the water without causing as many bubbles.
@@Kaidhicksii It's still a defect that engineers are actively trying to fix.
@@Yassified3425 On ALL ships.
Each time the ship appears in the background, its size makes it look unreal. The largest ship I've been able to tour was the Battleship USS Massachusetts in Fall River, Mass. The SS United States simply dwarfs BB-59. Just incredible.
Excellent video! I can only imagine what the ocean liner era was like, but this video makes it so much easier to visualize. Thanks!
Such a beautiful old girl. I do hope the money's found to get her the restoration she deserves. Such a gorgeous vessel deserves to look her best.
Sadly, it would take a generous billionaire and they don't exist.
@baritonebynight Also, none of the parts used to restore her would be made in America. The ship in her current state is a direct analogy for the country she's named after.
I wish money from other ship-related charities (for example, the TITANIC museum) can be chipped in to help the S.S. United States.
@@baritonebynight They said total cost would be like $10 million thats cheap
$700 million lol. They won't find anyone. You can buy a couple brand new giant ocean liners for that price.
$700 million is where it would start. It's a lost cause for something that old even though it's still the fastest.
MV Astoria oldest ship still in service today. They wanted 12 million for that. Still going to the scrapper since nobody bid and that ships ready now. Lol
Generous Billionaire is where it would start. For sure by a long shot. You'd need somebody to be willing to lose their pants big time. Won't happen. I think the idea of it being revived is great but I don't see anyone willing to put that kinda money in. It won't pay itself off.
Also speeds not needed today for cruises. Nobody's paying $4,000 to be back in a day lol. That's why nobody makes them go faster. It would be cheaper to scratch build by a long shot if they wanted too and crush the SS USAs speed record lol.
Kinda like the Concorde Jet. I'm afraid of 747 now. No need to do it.
Even if refit as a hotel or condos. Again I think SS USA is just too far gone to even want to try as far as cost.
Maybe they get somebody with deep pockets or somebody has an idea. I just don't see it. Longer it takes the more likely it goes for scrap.
A mighty ship! This past December (2022) a long time wish came true and I was able to walk the Big U's decks, see an engine room, and even climb the main mast. Even more special was meeting Susan Gibs, William Francis Gibbs's granddaughter. One can still feel the mighty power of the liner. The SS US conservancy is a great organization if one decides to donate.
Tom, that was magnificent! I learned so much about this beautiful old girl. She deserves to be saved and preserved.
Unfortunately that won’t happen as they have planned to sink it as an artificial reef
This is the best SS United States video I have seen online. Worthy of television- really well done - great tie in to both past and present. I really enjoyed this thank you! Seeing this ship moored at pier 82 all these years, it’s just such a shame that she is going to be sunk instead of repurposed. This video will preserver her.
As someone who has never been on a cruise because I'm terrified of anything going wrong, I respect Gibbs going overboard on safety. If it's ever restored, I'll be first in line to get on board. Thank you for the incredible video.
It will never cruise ever again. Two cruise companies explored that possibility, and both determined it wasn't economically feasible. The only hope for saving the ship is a redevelopment deal, which is currently being explored by RXR Development.
@@lmo1960 that's why I said on board and not cruising.
Im a Titanic/general-maritime enthusiast but I 100% agree lmao, I went on a Carnival cruise as a toddler and was very nervous lol
@@lmo1960 Ah, the worst kind of killjoy...
*The one who's speaking **_facts_*
I still can't believe that a country as mighty as the USA will let this amazing piece of american history to be lost forever...
Seems that the USA is not a great country anymore...
I said this on your Centralia vid but the way you overlay old photos onto modern footage is great. I like it.
This documentary is well done. Thanks for sharing. Congratulations…in my research, I found that my Dad served on the SS United States from Dec 1953-Sep 1955 as a Deck officer. The last 5 trips of his 37 trips on her, he was Chief Officer. He was later transferred to become the Chief Officer of the SS America.
I really admire and enjoy your work… and the incredible passion you have for your subject matter. My dad sailed on S.S. United States in 1962 in first class, as a teenager with his grandfather. Thank you for your dedication to preserving a bygone era!
My parents and I sailed on the Blue Riband voyage. I was two years old and my first memory is of that voyage. Your wonderful documentary triggered other memories of the ship. My parents were first class passengers, and I remembered the promenade deck, the children's nursery, and other things. Thank you, it gave me goosebumps seeing her in her glory...
I’d still have taken this incredible, comfortable, and safe cruise over the comet jets… we all know how well that ended! This whole video I was instinctively waiting for a disaster even though I knew it wasn’t coming 😂 very soothing glimpse back in time though and awesome work as usual 😊
Of course, the Comet jets didn't fly across the Atlantic until 1958, by which time they had been investigated and redesigned. But like you, if I was around then and wanted to cross the Atlantic (and been able to afford it!) I'd also have gone by ocean liner...
Great Doc. It is a real shame this ship was allowed to be stripped. It should have been preserved as a museum for millions to visit and experience.
Wow, I remember seeing her towed into Philly back in 1996. Now 25 years later she’s been sitting there docked the same amount of time she was in service. My uncle rode her back in the 60’s.
It's a shame it's just there deteriorating, they should restore it back to its original condition or something, or just sink it since it's just deteriorating. I think restore it to its original condition and have it go on small cruises it would definitely make a profit. Or turn it into a hospital ship or a museum.
@@jeremyreese9663 It could have been restored 50 times over with all the money we've sent to Ukraine (a non-N.A.T.O. ally)...
i was quite young when we set out in the middle of the night from North Hampton to South Hampton to board the
SS United States, the year 1964, my father was American US Air Force and my mother was a Liverpudlian. I was 7yrs
old and in charge of my bother and sister and belongings. Standing there absolutely in awe of this most beautiful boat, the four of us my mom, sis, ,brother, and myself had no comprehension of the adventure staring back at us. Since my father was military he when to a separate quarters than us, in the lower deck. i remember our small cabin
with two bed and bunks that dropped down from the wall, we were excited, couldnt contain our curiosity and need to totally explore this ship, as i was corrected from saying boat by the steward, and we three did exactly that, explored.
From watching movies to golden bouillon on deck to being privileged to dine with the Captain, because our mother experienced dreadful sea sickness. I remember the most beautiful shrimp cocktails i had ever seen or eaten but i also remember a storm where the waves were tossing the ship and the crew had tied ropes along the decks so you could hold on in case you lost your footing. Funny, the movie showing was the Unsinkable Molly Brown with Debbie Reynolds. I look back at this ocean voyage as a dream sometimes but it was the most memorable, fantastic, eye opening experience of my childhood especially when we approached New York Harbor and the great lady herself,
Miss Liberty. From the air you really dont get the full quintessential essence of her as you do passing , her, staring from the deck of a ocean liner, your heart beating fast, as she welcomes you to the new world you soon become a part of, leaving you with a vision in your head that can never be replaced in your mind. i consider my whole experience as a young girl on SS United States will never diminish, I feel privileged, and probably should thank the military for booking
us. I am now 66yrs old and have experienced numerous cruise lines, but none, and i mean none, have touched me in spirit, awe, and overwhelming as SS United States, she set the standards of cruising for me maybe because I was young and impressionable but no its her and what she represented to me.
@@kimdearing9660 i went on a german ship S S Breman and my trip was very much like yours my mom stayed sea sick also. Dam that was 1965 another lifetime ago. Say it aint so 😄
I’m so sad to know that Jordan and Eric have both passed. I’m sure I knew of it, but this reminded me of the length of the fight to save this treasure has been. RIP and thanks for your service
Jordon and Eric fought to save the SS United States until they both died.
You look so dapper around 39:00! And your pocket square is very well matched to the ship's vintage aesthetic.
I don't actually know anything about ships, I just find these documentaries interesting and relaxing lol
I watch your channel without video due to being at work or the gym. You do a great job of giving enough information and story telling to coherently understand without needing visuals!
I sailed on the SS United States in June 1957 from NYC to Southampton and was berthed in the 1st Class cabin #2 Port side Sun Deck. It was a fabulous cruise that I will always remember. Your video brought back many fond memories. I returned to the US aboard the sister ship SS America in June 1959. Thank you.
Really enjoyed this presentation. I first saw the Big U from the decks of QE2 in Southampton during a tour of the new Queen in June 1969. Several other great liners such as Andes were in port and as a nine year old it was fascinating. I was lucky enough to visit the US whilst she was in Virginia after a QE2 transatlantic, now as a qualified naval architect. I always thought she had great potential and as SS Rotterdam and others have shown, hotel ships and museums can be successful.
This was the most comprehensive video about this beautiful ship. I hope they can save her. Great job.
Another wonderful documentary. Watched this on my commute to work and enjoyed all of it. Thank you for putting in all the hard work and sharing it with us.
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for the support!
I love this channel! Every documentary on these luxury liners are so fascinating. Thank you for sharing your passion with us, as you’re so thorough and knowledgeable and you leave no questions unanswered. Fantastic job about a luxury ship I never knew even existed. Absolutely amazing!
It's so nice to see the story of a ship that was wholly successful as opposed to being a disaster. Feel-good vibes.
I listened to this video this morning while working around the house. Now, 12 hours later, my wife & I are enjoying the visuals together. Great video, thanks.
As an over the road truck driver, I passed by the ship many times. Goosebumps every time. Somebody please restore this boat !
No offence.... its a Ship... ( Ships carry boats as in Lifeboats )
I sailed on the SS United States from New York to La Havre. It was a wonderful voyage and I have so many warm memories. It was such a surprise to see this video on Y-Tube. I have so many mementoes from my trip that I would like to share. Eva
Finally had time to sit and watch. You have outdone yourself with this one, Tom! absolutely amazing. I’m a member of the SSUSC and I know every bit helps.
Do you have any information on the RXR Reality deal ? . Thanks .
You are such an amazing historian! I really enjoy your documentaries as the the effort and quality truly shows. Keep up the great work!
I've never really given the SS United States much thought but after this video I've come to love her, she is a remarkable vessel and its tragic she's in the way she is. Regardless though this video was bloody amazing thank you so much for the constantly engaging, interesting and informative content, please please keep it up!
Perhaps a Part-time Explorer, yet faithfully delivers full-time quality. Thank you. 🚢
You have a splendidly dignified voice and - may I say as a Canadian 🇨🇦 - a wonderful American accent. I could listen to you for hours.
Hi guys, I just wanted to let you know I thoroughly enjoyed this post.
Thank you.
James. Australia 🇦🇺
This beautiful ship needs to be brought back to life in all its glory it deserves that , we need to treat this beautiful legend with respect , ❤
You gonna pay for it?
Well, I think there are plenty of people in 2024 that would pay for a cruise on a restored vintage oceanliner. Even if it would be way more expensive than a cruise on one of those monstrosities nowadays. I would never pay that amount of money to be crammed in basically a floating two star Turkish all in resort looking like a social housing flat with 5,500 people. But I would pay for a cruise on a replica of the Normandie or a restored QM or US.
@@robg9236 It could have been restored 50 times over with all the money we've sent to Ukraine (a non-N.A.T.O. ally)...
Yes , I Love the memories I had as an 8 y/o on the SS United States ..
Leaving New York in 1963 on the transatlantic voyage , my Mother and 5 y/o Sister ventured to SouthHampton without our husband and Father .. he had to work and allowed us to travel to visit my Mother's family . Both my parents were born in Scotland ..
Shuffleboard was a keen sport that we enjoyed ,
our young age 😊
And Mother had us sing 'Hey There Georgie Girl' and 'These Boots are Made for Walking' in an entertainment spot ..
What a privilege to be such a part of History 🚢
Another classic video! Good job Tom!
🚢. I joined friends on a cruise late in scheduling once, so the only cabins remaining were on the lowest level, same as the Ships Staff/Enployees.
I didnt want a roomy, so I had the room to myself and I had a Porthole! I slept like a baby in a cradle.
It was close to both the Exit for excursions and "the Anchor", that was a "Wake-up Call" when they dropped Anchor, the Chain was quite noisy.
I still so enjoyed my cruise, had a fabulous Steward.
The following cruises I booked Suites, except for my next to last, I booked the Penthouse, and it was Fabulous. Has 2 prepared Coctail Parties and we had Bunko in my Dining Room twice. A Jacuzzi on my Balcony.
Wish I had done this many more times. Always take time to treat yourself 1st Class. Be good to your you.
Bon Voyage! ⚓
🗽 This Ship deserves some Respect, Service and /or Historical Status and Protection. Let her offer Transatlantic Cruises again.
⚓ 🚢 🇺🇲
I am so sad they will be sinking her. So depressing. Glad we will have documentaries like this to remember her by. What a well designed and built ship. Gibbs would be proud to see her still with us but incredibly sad to see her fall into disarray like this.
@lorigarza9971 absolutely William Francis Gibbs would be more than ❤ broken to see his beautiful lady; not cared for; for the years she has been out of service. She is still a beauty !!
This was a good final video to watch before I shut everything off for this new college semester. Having spent a summer volunteering aboard the retired Navy destroyer, USS Cassin Young (DD-793), I can now easily take one look at the United States' interiors as they currently are and identify her as a Navy vessel. This was a phenomenal documentary you and your team have done on her, from the incredible UE5 animations - one of which I almost mistook for real footage it's that great - to the never-before-seen areas inside the ship that are still semi-preserved as they were, namely, the lower cabins and corridors which weren't fully stripped. You guys were incredibly lucky to have gotten this opportunity from the Conservancy, and I wish them all the continued support in one day restoring this beautiful liner - a dream come to life, a technological masterpiece, America incarnate - for a second life, shining out as a beacon for all to see.
I still call rubbish on not building her to 1,000' though. When the Panama Canal was originally built in 1903, the original locks were 110' wide. It's obviously gotten wider since. The United States is 101.5' wide. My very rough estimation is that, if she were built to 1,000' rather than 990', that her width would have been only a foot wider at most, at 102.5'. Still plenty of space to squeeze through the canal, surely. X'D
Also, two remaining questions. One: couldn't USL have just kept her cruising speed at 35 knots after her maiden voyage rather than slowing down to 30-32? After all, that was her designed service speed, and her range called for sailing ~10,000 miles without refueling, while still maintaining 35 knots. Yeah, more speed means more fuel, but surely it couldn't have been that much more? It would drastically set her apart from the competition: while every other liner would take 4-5 days to cross on average, the Big U could regularly cross in 3, making her a premium feature on the Atlantic run.
Two: suppose Prohibition wasn't a thing in the 20s and that the Leviathan got to experience the same mostly flawless and perfect career that the United States would 3 decades later. Considering it was briefly the most popular ship on the Atlantic after its maiden voyage, how successful do you think its career would have been in the long run?
They slowed the United States down because its running mate, the SS America was a 22.5 knot ship. USL had no real need for her great speed, but the Pentagon (that subsidized most of the cost of construction) did. They wanted a large troopship that could fit through the Panama Canal and also had the speed to outrun enemy submarines.
No way... He's done it!
He did it. That crazy son of a b**ch did it. Haha
BEAUTIFUL Presentation, Well Done ! I sure HOPE this Amazing Ship gets Restored and Preserved for all to Enjoy !
Holy hell man, I was amazed with the animations on the Collins line vids but I've never seen animations like this
Tragic how she's been allowed to deteriorate, but so glad she's still there. The overlay of the historical pictures over the current structure was amazingly well done.
Incredible job on the complete history of the ship. As with so many great liners, it is sad to see it just... left there. I really do hope that it gets restored and enjoys a good second life like the QE2 has. I'm kind of surprised that Ocean Liners aren't also coming back into popularity, given how _awful_ flying has become (experience wise). I would much rather take a few days to cross the ocean in comfort than a few hours crammed into a plane.
That's one of the reasons why I'm currently in college pursing a major in mechanical engineering. Like Gibbs, my dream is to design a vessel that will revolutionize the cruise industry, and hopefully even, maybe, reignite the transatlantic passenger trade.
Also like Gibbs and his ship, my ship is heavily classified, as I've only shared info on it with a handful of people to date. I plan to share preliminary designs and details on Reddit at some point in the near future though. :)
@@Kaidhicksii Now that is really cool to hear - hope you succeed in this! The ship industry is well overdue for a major revolution. :)
You still can sail on an ocean liner. It’s called Queen Mary 2. May be much newer, but it’s still an ocean liner and it’s still luxurious
Informative and enjoyable. I have a special memory of the ship. My family lived in the Bronx, and my dad had clients in Brooklyn. I wasn’t even ten years old. We often drove down the West Side Highway, and my eyes would pop out if the ship was berthed that morning. Dad finally pulled into the parking lot (it must’ve been my birthday!), and asked if they offered tours. I don’t know if it was free or a nominal fee, but we were able to climb the gangway and enter to see a few big public rooms. I probably walked ten feet off the ground for a year after!
I wish they fixed her up nice and made her a museum. I drove by her a couple times when my parents took us to the Army-Navy games.
Excellent job on what I think is your best film yet! Excellent quality and very well done! I have seen quite a few films about the SS United States, but your is the best for showing the conceptual idea, to the building, its career, and its current standing. The "Then and Now" comparison clips were great to bring the history alive to this noble ship. Thank you for creating this!
3:17 Can we just take a moment to appreciate how the SS America was rocking the backwards hat look on its smokestacks long before it was even considered cool?
You have way too much free time. 🕢⏳⏲
Like the work of Mr. Gibbs, WELL DONE. I believe your reference to a "Baby Grand," in reality was probably a full-size concert grand piano.
Absolute best video concerning ships I have seen. My father helped in her construction. His gang was responsible for forming steel plates that would be used on her hull. He often called her 'his' ship. When she left Newport News for her sea trials, dad took the family to the coast of Hampton Roads to watch her sail out to see. She was so large, beautiful, and majestic. Maybe one day, she will have her beauty returned. I wish you could have shown her being constructed. Once her hull was completed, photos were not allowed to be taken. Only workers knew what secrets she contained inside her hull.
What a perfect metaphor for the country for which she's named. Just as the era of the great ocean liners is long gone, and as the beauty of this, the greatest of the great, so has gone the country for which she is named.
What a great video on the Bug U. Job well done. I been following her since the late 1980s and when she showed up so to speak on my doorstep i been hoping and praying a future is found for her. She has been waiting for a long time and she needs to be saved
I drive by this ship all the time for years, recently saying to my kids it’s an eyesore that should be scuttled into the Atlantic. I am shocked by this rich history and let’s see if it can find a second life. Thanks for making this exceptional documentary as usual.
Well, surprise, surprise! Your initial wish is coming true.
In 1970, my parents inherited the house of Charles B Gilbert, a friend and the artist responsible for drawing the beautiful sea life used to cut into the glass. In his studio, we discovered the original drawings. I always wondered how wonderful these glass panels must have looked. Tonight I happened upon this video about the US United States and got a short glimpse of these panels. Thank you very much!
I am glad a ship this majestic and history-filled still lives. I hope she gets the refurbishment she deserves someday.
As of right now Philly wants it gone. Plans to demolish and scrap is all that's happening right now. Sad.
😢
Great presentation. Much appreciated. In 1990 I was visiting my brother in Virginia and we spotted the distant silhouette of a massive ship near the waterfront. We drove for quite a while getting closer. When we got near, we realized it was the SS United States. It was awesome and still is. I hope it succeeds in being preserved. -Steve Magnante
Good video! A few corrections: 1) The ship actually averaged 28.5 knots on transatlantic crossings. She ran at 32 knots for part of the trip & then slowed down. 2)The ship's average occupancy rate was 78% in the 1950s, 65% in the sixties, and 71% for her career. 3) The SSUS was in service for over 17 years. 4) The America was officially retired in 1964. 5) SSUS did not make 400 voyages. This included cancelled trips.
Has always been number 1 on my all time 5 best liners list.
Great Presentation
Thank you
One of the greatest ships of all time period.
Beautiful documentary and music!! This was a fabulous video about an American passenger ship! Thank you for showing off the past glories and achievements of the United States!
6:28 *Imagine having a expensive piano built by Steinway doused in gas and set on fire just to prove a point.* 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
This is by far the best video of the SS United States I've seen. Well done!
So……who’s here after the news? “Americas flagship” lol
Enjoyed your coverage of this beautiful ship. As a lifelong Philly resident I have always appreciated this vessel and wished to see it come back to life in some way, but such is life.
If you want to see the SS United States before they sink it off the coast of Florida please go to Philadelphia pier 82 and do it before October 29 2024😢
Excellent documentary! I was 12 yrs old when my family sailed the United States from France to New York. My dad even had his Packard shipped back to the States on board the ship. The car was originally shipped across to Europe on the Andrea Doria, which we sailed on three times. I still have some "souvenirs" that mom took off each ship. Some cocktail silverware from the Andrea Doria and a Vanity tray from our cabin on the United States. We always traveled first class. I was so fortunate to have sailed both ships. It is truly sad to see the ship stripped and not even having the glorious exterior painting in tact.
I've loved this ship for years. I hope the conservationists can get the money to save her. I'd love to sail on her one day.
Edit: Apparently she's undergoing restoration for a static hotel, and she'll never sail again. That breaks my heart, but I guess it's better than her going to the scrapper. I guess it prevents her being lost at sea as well.
That's old news. $700 million+ is what it would take. Every company is gonna roll over laughing and run for the hills with that price tag. Hotel or refit and running again.
Won't happen. It's going to rust some more. You can buy brand new working ocean liners (plural) for that price.
I'm sure companies explored the option. And I'll gurantee they ran as soon as they crunched the numbers. That's what you saw back in 2021.
The narration is truly upper class. I've listened to many of these videos in the last few weeks. I'm sure that given the correct platform.. the rest of the world would enjoy these educational glimpses of history.. yet he does these as a side hobby!
Love your videos!
I ❤ only God and my family.
Fantastic work! What an awesome documentary. I really hope the SS United States is restored. Such a beautiful ship
Great job Tom. Here's hoping that someday the SS United States can be restored to her former glory again
Your vlogs are simply the best! Your attention to detail and information makes them so very interesting! More please!
She’s being sunk as a reef.😭
Fr!?!
Outstanding my friend. Congratulations to you and your crew, for presenting one of the finest documentaries you will find on UA-cam.
Update on the SS United States October 5th 2024
The has been sold for 1 million dollars to OKALOOSA county Florida and its done deal. It will be prepared in Newport news shipping dock and then towed to Florida for sinking November 1st 2024. All paid for by OKALOOSA county Florida. I know about this because I volunteer to help save the ship. But there's nothing more I can do. Sorry to you all. Its done deal. 😢😢
My father and Grandfather sailed together on the SS United States as passengers. I still possess the souvenier playing cards that they brought off their voyage. Their voyage took place in the 1950's long before I was born but I remember my father telling me of the crossing in rough seas. He remarked on what an adventure it was. This is quite a video! Thank you for sharing.
Those 3d animations are amazing! What software did you make them in?
Unreal Engine 5
@@R0ckmans do u have to be a programme and learn code to do that kind of stuff?
@@randomrazr there are many tutorials on UA-cam some very good ones.. and unreal engine is free from the epic games launcher.. anyone can learn it.. the skill is the artwork.. and being a competent 3D artist .. I wish you well
@@eventhori3on u dont need to learn coding for that kind of work? 1010111
@@randomrazr you can for more advanced scripts but no you don't need coding necessarily.. although it's good to have
Oh my god I can't believe there going to sink as an artificial reef
Wonderful,We sailed on her twice, eastbound to leHarve,1966 and 69,first class,courtesy of the United States State Dept. My father was chief medical officer for the American Embassies 'behind the iron curtain'.(Balkans) We took a new 66 Ford along as well. Family donated all the paper,tickets, streamers,menus etc to the Steamship Historical Society, R.I. THANKS for the memory jog,you did an outstanding job !