The QE2 launched in the late 1960s still exists in Dubai, UAE. Around the same time, the SSUS was retired & could have capitalized on 1950's nostalgia. But its interior was ripped out in the 1990s, so even if in better shape, maintaining it would have been a struggle. The QE2 apparently isn't too lucrative as a stationary business, & the QM in Calif often struggles too.
My uncle designed the turbine engine for this beauty. I will miss seeing her every time I pass her on the WW Bridge. I always say, 'Hi Uncle Bill,' whenever I pass the ship.
So sad. I have wool blankets, an ashtray, and some other bits and bobs from her decommissioning. Folk from my hometown served on her as officers and crew. Here's to your Uncle Bill.
The engines were donated by the US Navy which had ordered them for a new carrier --- the USS United States, which was canceled in favor of nuclear ones coming along.
The fastest ocean liner built. Current holder of the Blue Ribband. Left forgotten. And that's an absolute shame. Was in Philadelphia this past July and saw the ship with my own eyes. And that's a chance I'll never get again.
The military specs that the SS United States was built to gave it enough horsepower to keep up with an aircraft carrier. Many believe that 38 knots was not its true top speed. Slightly larger than the Titanic, it actually weighed less due to the extensive use of aluminum in its superstructure. Would like to see the mast, with its internally accessible crows nest preserved somewhere. I went to the week long Norfolk auction in the 80's. Bought a sand painting panel out of the Navaho Lounge and the Taurus sculpture off the cabin class dining room wall. Got to see them in place on the tour given before the auction began. Not sure I'd go see the ship in its present shape even if tours will be allowed. Seeing her as she had been preserved seems good enough.
Back in 1959, as a boy, on my way to Germany aboard a Navy cargo ship, Dad was to be stationed in Germany. We were notified about four days out that the SS Uniited States was going to pass to the port side very shortly. We went out on a weather deck and witnessed it whizzing by on its way to the States. It was a magnificent sight. Sad to hear its fate.
It is sad. It's a truism--that a boat is like a gap in the water into which large sums of money are hurled. A ship--is a much larger gap in the water. The costs eclipse the nostalgia in most cases long before now, but this was a long-foreseen inevitability. And I too agree--good to see it continue its service as an artificial reef.
@@SaberToothBicycle The fact her interior was stripped would likely be a major factor in why no one would of wanted her. There was just no way to make money off of a liner like this. Rusting in a dock, Her former glory and interior stripped. Due to her being so narrow to squeeze every knot of speed out of her, there would be no way for her to really be made into a modern cruise liner with the demands of modern people. Especially when there are cruise liners not even 20 years old just sitting and rotting that can be modernized easier.
What a bitter end for a great lady. She ruled the Atlantic Ocean with speed and a grace never before seen, nor ever again. Then she was put aside and left to be forgotten. It's honestly heartbreaking that a famous piece of America like this was just left to rot away and fall apart. The ocean she once ruled over will now receive her and she will become one with it. Many will be able to still view her greatness as her journey ends RIP SS America 🇺🇲
when I was a kid in the 1960s we were waiting to emigrate to Australia from the UK, my parents rented a cottage on Hailing island for a short while. Every ocean liner that came into Southampton had to go past our cottage. The kicker was, as all the great liners headed strait at us from the channel, you could see their funnels appear over the horizon before the actual hull. When I first saw the United States it was love at first sight, the funnels had wings! how cool is that. The shape, the red white and blue, the trendy squat designed funnels and the fact it held the blue ribbon, all made this my favorite liner of all time. Today I am a very sad Pom.
Was on board in the fifties and still have some napkins and menu card. Never understand why the US has such a disregard to its recent history. Best from Southampton UK.
If you visit NYC, you will find the bronze letter "Q" from the Queen Elizabeth in an enclosure at 88 Pine Street. If you go to the west end of 13th Street, you will see the metal archway for Pier 54 and the faint signage for White Star and Cunard Lines. This is where the Titanic would have docked. Reminders of the ocean liners are everywhere, especially in NYC, if you know where to look.
I’m a volunteer for USS NEW JERSEY just up the river, and over the last couple of months when coming aboard and then down below near the fantail i look to the southwest to see the stacks of the UNITED STATES still there. This weekend might be the last time I’ll see her and that’s sad.
yeah, and honestly if the choice is between reefing and scrapping, I would rather have her be a reef. At least people and animals can get some more use and enjoyment out of her for a while more.
As a kid, I built a model of the ship along with QEII, Canberra and others. I always loved reading about the ship and am sad too. I do look forward to possibly diving on her in Okaloosa one day and pay her homage.
I was a young engineer working at Newport News Shipbuilding on the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the late 1960's. The SS United States was tied up at one of the piers in the shipyard, alongside the USS Enterprise (CVAN 65), and the SS Manhattan, the first commercial ship to make the Northwest Passage. Never was able to get aboard any of these ships, but it was amazing to see so much marine history in one place.
i'm so happy that i mannaged to put together her kit months before this happen at least i can say my final fairwell to her on my exhibition (because i host one at my local libary where my model ships and trains are displayed)
My grandfather was a merchant marine who had the pleasure of spending time on this ship. I’ve got pictures of him on it 💜 I love that I get to learn more about the places he’s been through this channel! Thanks Sal👍
Wow I remember reading all about the SS United States when I was young. Its stats were amazing, and it looked so noble pictured cutting through the ocean.
I didn't realize she had previously been stripped down to such a degree. I totally agree with you Sal, hopefully some components can be preserved and better to reef than scrap. At least this way she can be visited by those able to dive. I served on the USCG cutter Duane WHEC 33, who was reefed with her sister ship the Bibb off the coast of Florida. This is a respectable end to a historically significant vessel. Sal, thank you so much for all you do!
My father was one of the thousands of workers who built the S S United States . I was born in 1952 at the Newport News Shipyard .The hospital back then was at the shipyard . My father said it was a good place for a hospital since shipyard workers were getting bad injuries all the time .Later he got a job at Langley Air Force Base for NACA . I had a great uncle that was on a crew that made the anchor/chain that's at the Mariners Museum . I haven't been back there since they were building the Ronald Regan .
It is touching to see a love for a machine and feel for it ..! Ships have a Spirit and so do aircrafts I can empathize with the feeling of sorrow and sadness
Thank you as always for the video Sal. I understand the strength of your feelings concerning this vessel. I am glad she at least will have a resting place of honor off the Florida coast as an attraction for divers and a new home for fish. Reefing is in my opinion a certain measure of respect. She deserved better but she got what she got. Peaceful Skies
I'm a base commander for US Submarine Veterans. I am so glad we've preserved as many WWII era submarines as we have. Come visit the Cod in Cleveland and the National Museum of the Great Lakes here in Toledo.
My grandfather was on her record-setting translant voyage. As a boy, when I went to Norfolk to visit my grandparents, I remember seeing her stacks dominating the waterfront
Very lucky as a young boy to have seen her in all her glory arriving and leaving from Southampton. Sad news today. Memories returning tonight after watching this episode.
My 👍 is for Sal’s coverage of this sad situation as well as for his excellent coverage of shipping and how it ties into our lives. From a different perspective, I’d give 👎👎 That’s from the perspective of someone long interested in the history of ships and all things maritime. It is also flavored by being a nuclear science & marine engineering grad of Sal’s alma mater, NY Maritime. The flavoring goes even deeper. Can’t recall whether it was my 3rd or 2nd class (sophomore or junior) year at Maritime. But one weekend instead of heading home to Long Island I stayed on campus and then headed to Manhattan with a classmate. Somehow we wound up on the SS United States. After a self-guided tour we met one of the engineer officers and had dinner with him.
In 1952 my family sailed ro England on the SS United States. What I remember is standing on the dock with my Mom and brothers looking up at the biggest thing that I had ever seen. We were a military family going to live with Dad in England.
The prop arrangement sounds similar to Battleship NJ. It’s docked across the river from SS United States. Sad demise to a remarkable ship! Thanks for the video Sal!
Sal, great video on an amazing ship. I did not know it could make over 40 kts! That’s amazing speed now, so very impressive for the 50s. Going to order those books now. Add to the amazing list of books that you listed a few months ago. Thank you for your efforts!
Wow. This brings back memories, My first ‘real’ job was at American Export Lines (17 Battery Place, NYC). Late 1973. They had already divested themselves of the SS United States (though I never missed an opportunity to point it out on I Love Lucy). They still operated the Savannah, if memory serves, but there were really no ports that would welcome the only privately-operated nuclear cargo vessel.
I used to drive past her a lot in Philly a few years ago when I was living in northern VA and working in NJ. Now I’m an airline pilot and I love seeing her when flying into PHL. Flying in there in two days so I’ll have to give her a silent salute as we pass by.
Mentioned here for no reason at all: Prettiest ship I've ever seen (never seen her in person) is the Savannah... Nuclear-powered cargo ship built by US (in 50's?) to showoff. Beautiful lines. Wonderful looking ship. Don't know what became of her. I guess I have a research project for tonight.
For a while she was a museum on display with the USS Yorktown. I saw here there, but - sadly - did not tour her, I spent my time on the CV, the DD & the sub.
The NS Savannah is in Baltimore, has been for a while. They do tours. The fact that the ship was nuclear powered meant that preservation was necessary, at least until the reactor containment cooled off enough to be gutted of its contaminated machinery.
Sal. in just this video clip of the SSUSS you have provided a great remarkable story of her history. I think it was a commendable, great story of her. I feel something to be proud of, not saddened by. She has served her time with HONORS.
The pinnacle of commercial shipping except for one small detail; it lost money hand over fist. it was a marvel for its time; but it's time is long gone. At least they finally figured out what to do with it.
That is sad but I'm glad she'll not be turned into scrap. My one and only ship model was of the SS United States, I built in the 1950's (probably a Revell kit).This was unusual for me as I was really into airplane kits back then. It was a very nice-looking model.
I built it as well back in the fifties. The kit was reissued about twenty years ago and this time I built it with photoetch railings, rigged it, and mounted it on a simulated water surface inside a display case so it stays dust free.
When I taught a course on Marine Geography at Old Dominion University I assigned a field trip to the Mariners Museum in Newport News so the students could be aware of the history of the SS United States. The museum had an extensive curated display of the ship including artifacts and information about Gibbs. Sad news.
I've had the pleasure of sailing on some of these old school cruise liners over the years when my dad preferred to travel by ship over airliners whenever possible. Thinking back, they were truly iconic experiences that I will never forget.
I was saddened at the news but glad to have found your channel. I have a particular interest in US liners as I was an "army brat" and crossed the Atlantic 5 tines by the time I was 16 (i.e. 1964,) going back and forth as my father was transferred. Ship travel was normal in those days, air crossings reserved for officers' families for the most part. I recall the first two crossings were on WW2 troopships, the Hodges and the Rose. Later cruises were on American Export Lines liners SS Constitution and SS Independence. The latter two vessels were a treat compared to the USNS transports, although the transports were not in their wartime state and were comfortable enough. I'd love to know what happened to the AEL liners - I think one or both of them might have ended up in Hawaii. Either way, I've subscribed and will peruse your videos in the coming days and weeks as they are of great interest and well made. Kudos!
i Remember seeing Her when i was driving trucks to Philadelphia, just beside Penn Wharehouse. in 2000 She still had the Presidential Flag on Her Bow ! Majestic Ship ! 37Knots is incredible !!
In the brief moment I lived in Philly, I saw the United States across the road from the IKEA. Remember reading into it once I realized what she was! While I'm not surprised that she's not turning into a museum ship - the refurbishment would be way too much, it's sad to see such a piece of history be sunk..
I remember seeing the ship docked down river from US Navy NOB in Norfolk in the 70's. You had to go past it on Hampton Roads Blvd going in and out of the base. I'm not a big fan of sinking ships for reefs there's just something wrong about sunken ships. I would have had it scrapped years ago and at least recoup some of the cost some of the owners have incurred being obstinate. Every piece of equipment has a life span and memories are better than unnecessary costs. Saving the screws is a great thing and I'd like to see them.
You beat me to it... I was about to add that the ship had sat there, just south of the D&S Piers, at least from '74 to '76, when I was aboard ship. My ex-wife and I rented a little open boat with an outboard, from the Navy Recreational Services, and cruised the waterfront. Went idling down the port side of the United States and ran our hands along the big riveted plates. Quite the perspective from the waterline, looking up.
11:54 I understand your grief here. A vessel I knew was reefed in 2018, Twin Capes, and I watched the video once and never again. I knew a lot of the crew and quite a few said they didn't watch it at all. So sad to see but certainly better than razor blades.
My late Mom’s favorite ship. In the 1950s before she got married she’d save up her money and go between the U. S. and Germany (she was originally from near Königsberg, her mother and sisters were living in West Germany and she was living in Chicago, but she’d visit them) by ship sometimes. For her trip on the United States she booked an upper class cabin and was at the Captain’s table at least one night. Sad that this is how the ship will end up, but not really a surprise…
Thank you for covering this story. I am also extremely heartbroken over this tragedy. I was blessed to have sailed from New York to LeHarve on one of the last, if not the last voyage in 1969. I was 12 years old and remember it fondly. My dad, US Army Major, received orders to Germany and we were given the option to sail instead of flying over. RIP SS UNITED STATES 🇺🇸 😢
Smart observation: there are big decisions to be made around the 30-35 year time frame for any large vessel. Wait too long, and drydock can become too big a question mark. Cofferdam work just to get in shape to approach full repairs? Very large price tag and extended lead times to form & fit sections needed. Just doing the ultrasonic testing work and the following engineering analysis is a hefty job.
@@joeconnolly89 Funny how we keep trying that combo. This was the big issue with the Austal LCS design, well that and apparently the USN was like "Nah, we don't need an active anode on this thing! It'll be just fine." (I think anode is right but it could be a cathode.)
What an incredible shame .. it is such a beautiful ship ... I was back east a number of years ago and spent a day in Philadelphia . Came around a corner and there she was . I recognized her right away and even though she was in bad shape her beautiful lines showed her off . With all of the enormous amounts of money the government wastes , just a meger amount would have been enough to restore her to where people could have appreciated her for many years to come .... Great call on the stacks !
My Dad served in WW2 in the US Navy as an Electricians Mate 2 nd class. He had nothing but high praise for the 2 Captains that he served under in Europe and Asia. Those Captains were from the US Merchant Marine and very skilled. My Dad survived the war to return home, marry, raise a family and enjoy a great life !
Yes very sad news. It does have a lot of history. While living in the Norfolk area in the late 70’s and early 80’s. I remember seeing it many times while it was docked in Norfolk. I believe it was docked in Norfolk during my entire time living there. Also I remember the auction they had for the items on the ship. Unfortunately I did not try to take advantage of that opportunity to get something from it.
When I was a kid I remember seeing her being built at NN Shipbuilding. She was a gorgeous ship, and I felt a sense of pride seeing her from the old James River Bridge. Sorry to see her go but recreational divers should get the same feeling.
A sad but honourable end. Ship preservation is so expensive. How many preserved ships in America will still be afloat in a century? Britain never preserved battleship let alone a liner. We were bankrupt.
Never saw her. When I first started sailing (after the Navy) in 79, I sailed on a few US Lines ships, all cargo. There were a lot of "old timers" that would wax poetic about how great it was to be on! There were alot that thought she'd be brought back as a cruise liner. A shame to see her go, yet for an overall good purpose, instead of rotting away pier side.
Just wanted to say, I enjoy the touch of keeping the thumbnail on the first few seconds of the video. I had no idea until I just noticed, but I often want to see the thumbnail for a little before the video shows. Sals videos do that because he puts the thumbnail as the first couple seconds. I love it !
Magnificent ship from a bygone era. I think I saw her once passing the Lizard Point off the UK south-west coast in the 1960s at speed. Did the DoD insist on a non-flammable grand piano?
That was William Francis Gibbs who insisted all the materials she was fitted and decorated with be flame-proof. Even the cloth materials were fibreglass. That’s amazing you had the opportunity to see her sailing by!
@@AndrewUtz3 Regarding flame-proofing, I believe that was to enable the ship to double as a troop ship during the Cold War period in Europe. Regarding the sighting, I was in my early teens staying at a hotel beside the lighthouse at Lizard. The building is still there but now a youth hostel. Beneath the lighthouse is a brightly painted wall marking the official eastern end of the oceanic crossing, I imagine for Blue Ribband purposes. I guess from offshore, aligning the white lighthouse tower with the vertical strip on the wall beneath provides a finishing line for record attempts. The liner in question was passing on the horizon at speed and I was looking through a fairly powerful telescope owned by the hotelier. I recall it was difficult to track the ship through the eyepiece , because it was moving so fast. I cannot be certain it was the SS United States. I was told it was. I presumed he would know because of regular sailing times to and from NY. Judging by the speed, what else could it have been? I like to think it was and imagine what a trans-Atlantic crossing would feel like today.
They tried to save one of the three sisters that transported people across the river Humber here in the UK. Unfortunately the Lincoln Castle, after being at several homes the trust didnt succeed in saving her and she was cut up for scrap another sister the Tatashall Castle is on The River Thames the other Farringford Castle is somewhere on the south coast.
I share your feelings Capt. Sal about the SSUNITED STATES. As a life long merchant seaman, who is medically beached I really miss the ships, sea, and the many shipmates I made over the years. The iconic SS UNITED STATES represents a symbol of what the U.S. MERCHANT MARINE used to be, and no longer is. Such a shame the vessel now must meet her current demise as an artificial reef in the Caribbean Sea. That said it is better for her to RIP in Neptunes Kingfdom than in the Ship Breakers Yard. It is still hard for this old Mariner to swallow. Art Rogers, Hawsepipe Mariner
Hello 😊. I wondered what would become of this vessel. So many enthusiasts have been making videos of her and reminiscing about her glory days. It’s too bad it couldn’t have been preserved. At least her existence is well documented. Thanks for the video 😊💎
I saw the SS United States, once as it arrived at Southampton in the early 1960's. It looked so elegantly sleek and futuristic. The Queen Mary was in port too, it really was a magnificent sight to witness the two ships together. The second time was around 2015 driving through Philadelphia. It was heartbreaking to see it deteriorate - I knew it would never be preserved, it would be such an enormous task and cost. I agree with Sal, scrapping would be dreadfully sad, and scuttling it is more fitting so that some divers can marvel at her.
Her sister ship SS AMERICA (American Star) was being towed to be scrapped , broke free and ran aground at Fuertaventura (Canary Islands) Locals salvaged many treasures including decorative murals by my father, Pierre Bourdelle 😢
Fall of 1982 the crew of CG41411 from Station New York successfully fought a transformer fire on the pier at the NY Maritime Academy. I was the seaman aboard. William Willis was the Coxswain, don't remember which Engineer was aboard that day. We got the fire out before the NYC Fire Tug "Firefighter" arrived on scene from Battery Park. That tug put out something crazy like 50,000 gallons per hour. She has since been replaced.
Wonderful vessel...When my family returned to the US from 3 years in Munich, Germany it was on this ship. We had a great trip.....great food, we got to watch a movie (I was 10 years old)...it was a blast!
Dear Sal, I really enjoy your content and follow you & Ward Carol weekly. I’m a resident of Okaloosa County and I hope to come up at some point to see the SS United States while she is being prepared for her fate. Hopefully our paths will connect at some point over the next year. I was stationed in Norfolk in the 1980s, and also remember seeing her on the water front during my active duty in the USN 87-91. I would love to meet you one day. Cheers, - Wright Sublette
Damn I traveled from New York to Germany on this ship when I was 5 years old back in the 50's. My father was a US Army Sargent. It was a beautiful Ocean Liner. Nothing like the cruise ships today. I still remember leaving New York and seeing the Statue of Liberty. I still have the little book they gave to passengers about the ships services and schedule. So sad. I gave your video a like anyway in reverence to this great ship.
Artificialy reefs are wonderful for aquatic growth and fishery support. It had its day but in 2024 it's nothing but scrap shaped like a ship. Now it can entertain (its purpose was to entertain passengers after all) divers for hundreds of years.
I understand monetary cost can be a sound reason to scuttle a ship but it’s sad to see such magnificent ships left to fall to such conditions that they end up being scrapped. We’re losing too many of our maritime treasures that helped shape the USA. Love the channel Sal.
As a marine service technician, the upkeep of a small vessel in water is several thousand per year for a 35' boat. This thing is 1000' long? She has to be drydocked, and bottom cleaned and repainted every 3 years. The parasitcs would cost millions of dollars, otherwise the sea turns her to ore. Then there are those pesky storms... She will now shelter many from the turbulent storms. They tend to swim all day.
Her superstructure is made from aluminum. That made her more durable against the weathering on the topside. It kept basic upkeep in these years since her interior fittings were stripped more economically feasible than it would have been otherwise. The ocean is impressive in its ability to return whatever is immersed back into its constituent elements. How long can a ship go between dry-docking and repainting the hull before corrosion sets in?
Greetings from Frankfurt Germany. When I was 13 years old my family and I voyaged on the SS United States from Le Havre, France to New York. I think the journey took about 4 days. It was the fall of 1966 and the North Atlantic was grey and rough. My mother was afraid of flying so we always travelled by ship. My twin sister was, as usual, incapacitated with seasickness. I remember the calls to meals that was made with a hand xylophone and getting formally dressed for dinner. We were assigned a waiter who I recall being somewhat aloof. I remember checking, daily, the ship's incremental progress on a large public map of the Atlantic Ocean. Travelling today is far less dignified; with body scanners, 100ml liquid restrictions and shoe removal requirements. My most memorable remembrance was passing the Statue of Liberty in an early morning fog. The few early morning passengers spoke in very hushed tones and my 13 year old brain realised something special was happening. The SS United States is an important part of America, just like the Statue of Liberty or the Washington Monument. She is a testimony to America's exuberance and optimism. Please America, keep this symbol of America alive.
It may have been in Newport News briefly but it was docked in Norfolk for at least 8 years after its 1969 retirement. The amount wasted on dock fees for 55 years is astounding.
My father, A Navy Academy guy, took the family to NYC back in 1958 (circa) and we saw the ship on the pier. My Dad said the Navy owned the power plant and some of it's speed stuff was "secret". Wow, did that get my little 11 year old brain whirling. Can't wait to read the books you recommended. (Go Mass Maritime!)
You know the sea life will be fascinated with it too! It would be an optimal new study point regarding a new large fixture and the local inhabitants. Complete with caves.
my visions of a quality Liner are all the Teak decks, Oak trims, Pine or Spruce wall panels Solid slabs of wood bars, solid timber staircases, the Cork wood dance floors The SS States was metal, metal and more metal for a constant war footing focus seriously , no great loss, just a planned war machine. The Queen Mary was pure Lux by comparison , just the sheer of those titans was awesome.
I remember as a young boy building a scale model of the ship, and have been following this from afar for many years. I know in WWII the role that fast troop ships played with the Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth that were able to cross the Atlantic unescorted despite the U-boats because they were so fast. I know that was part of the reason that the SS United States was built.
Thank goodness!! It's a dilapidated dump that no one is ever going to waste the money on to restore. Ryan from the Battleship New Jersey channel did a tour of it a few years ago; it's a gutted hulk.
USMMA 1982. I've always admired "Fort Scupper" ... Especially the night that a bunch of us commandeered a Boston Whaler and drove across the Sound and painted the side of the Empire State. I believe it was in red paint in simply said "KP 81 82" ... Would have been 1980, I believe. ... That was the night of a "mixer" so I'm pretty sure "social lubricants" were involved. ... All joking aside, great channel. And very kind of you to suggest that each of our alma mater receive a stack. ... Don't remember having seen the propeller (1993) at my 30th in 2012, it was dark and we didn't go to the waterfront. Before sailing as an engineer I sailed on the SS American Lynx as an engine cadet. All of the old-timers always bragged about how they had sailed the BIG U. ... I didn't know that it had only been skippered by Fort Schuyler grads. When I later worked in Norfolk I used to sail my sailboat by the United States along its berth. I later found a shop (on Colley Avenue I believe) that had a large (18x24?) photograph of the United States being shifted in berth. It was in the middle of the Elizabeth River, sun faded on one side. Gave that photo to a classmate. Also had a copy of THE BIG SHIP which I gave to that classmate. Inside of the book it had various trinkets from the vessel, mostly paperwork like menus. I do recall the store had things like ship's china for sale but I didn't pick up any. I had a sailboat and I think I actually bought life jackets. Seems like 100 years ago. One of your better episodes. Thank you.
Sad news, I immigrated from England to the USA on that ship in the 1960's.
😮
Wow!!! Now thats some history.
The QE2 launched in the late 1960s still exists in Dubai, UAE. Around the same time, the SSUS was retired & could have capitalized on 1950's nostalgia. But its interior was ripped out in the 1990s, so even if in better shape, maintaining it would have been a struggle. The QE2 apparently isn't too lucrative as a stationary business, & the QM in Calif often struggles too.
@@gridley There have been other ships that were turned into floating hotels that failed. And eventually were scrapped.
Honestly she’ll last longer at the bottom than being scrapped one day if that helps.
I'm giving a thumbs up, not because I enjoyed this bit of information, but in honor of the S.S. United States.
Giving not gi.ing phone error
Aint3 you just the sweetest thing?😅😅😅
Sad news. I was a passenger on the SS United States in 1963. From France to NY.
Well you will have that memory forever. I can't even dive on the President Cleveland
My uncle designed the turbine engine for this beauty. I will miss seeing her every time I pass her on the WW Bridge. I always say, 'Hi Uncle Bill,' whenever I pass the ship.
So sad. I have wool blankets, an ashtray, and some other bits and bobs from her decommissioning. Folk from my hometown served on her as officers and crew. Here's to your Uncle Bill.
@@JohnDrummondVA Thank you. :) I don't have anything from the ship, but I am proud of my uncle's accomplishment. No ship has ever crossed faster!
The engines were donated by the US Navy which had ordered them for a new carrier --- the USS United States, which was canceled in favor of nuclear ones coming along.
That's wonderful it was a fun time to do so, the competition was fierce between USA and England
Ich habe nichts von ihr, wie denn auch?
Ich trage sie im Herzen❤. Eine Ära geht zu Ende. Endgültig!
The fastest ocean liner built. Current holder of the Blue Ribband. Left forgotten. And that's an absolute shame.
Was in Philadelphia this past July and saw the ship with my own eyes. And that's a chance I'll never get again.
and the new are not getting any faster, so it's one a kind and the propellers replaceable consumables, like car tyres, they get worn out and replaced.
The military specs that the SS United States was built to gave it enough horsepower to keep up with an aircraft carrier. Many believe that 38 knots was not its true top speed. Slightly larger than the Titanic, it actually weighed less due to the extensive use of aluminum in its superstructure. Would like to see the mast, with its internally accessible crows nest preserved somewhere. I went to the week long Norfolk auction in the 80's. Bought a sand painting panel out of the Navaho Lounge and the Taurus sculpture off the cabin class dining room wall. Got to see them in place on the tour given before the auction began. Not sure I'd go see the ship in its present shape even if tours will be allowed. Seeing her as she had been preserved seems good enough.
Saw it on a plane, still a beautiful yet sad sight
How can Trump let that happen?
Back in 1959, as a boy, on my way to Germany aboard a Navy cargo ship, Dad was to be stationed in Germany. We were notified about four days out that the SS Uniited States was going to pass to the port side very shortly. We went out on a weather deck and witnessed it whizzing by on its way to the States. It was a magnificent sight. Sad to hear its fate.
That's about the time I sailed on the SS United States to Germany.
I saw the SS Norway 35 years ago Pass at Nite.Super Cool first time on a Cruise.🥰🥰🥰
A sad end. The only silver lining, I suppose, is that being scuttled to form a reef and dive site is better than just scrapping.
It is sad. It's a truism--that a boat is like a gap in the water into which large sums of money are hurled. A ship--is a much larger gap in the water.
The costs eclipse the nostalgia in most cases long before now, but this was a long-foreseen inevitability. And I too agree--good to see it continue its service as an artificial reef.
If only people were smart enough like y’all to understand that the costs would be extremely prohibitive to see her refurbished to museum use
It’s a lot more respectful than scrapping. I think this was the only real option.
@@SaberToothBicycle The fact her interior was stripped would likely be a major factor in why no one would of wanted her. There was just no way to make money off of a liner like this. Rusting in a dock, Her former glory and interior stripped. Due to her being so narrow to squeeze every knot of speed out of her, there would be no way for her to really be made into a modern cruise liner with the demands of modern people. Especially when there are cruise liners not even 20 years old just sitting and rotting that can be modernized easier.
@@TheMotorGuyDirect Her historic interior was stripped. The very thing people would of paid to see.
What a bitter end for a great lady. She ruled the Atlantic Ocean with speed and a grace never before seen, nor ever again. Then she was put aside and left to be forgotten. It's honestly heartbreaking that a famous piece of America like this was just left to rot away and fall apart.
The ocean she once ruled over will now receive her and she will become one with it. Many will be able to still view her greatness as her journey ends
RIP SS America 🇺🇲
AND she will never leave
Beautifully said. Thank you.
For the SS United States. From Newfoundland, Canada
when I was a kid in the 1960s we were waiting to emigrate to Australia from the UK, my parents rented a cottage on Hailing island for a short while. Every ocean liner that came into Southampton had to go past our cottage. The kicker was, as all the great liners headed strait at us from the channel, you could see their funnels appear over the horizon before the actual hull. When I first saw the United States it was love at first sight, the funnels had wings! how cool is that. The shape, the red white and blue, the trendy squat designed funnels and the fact it held the blue ribbon, all made this my favorite liner of all time. Today I am a very sad Pom.
Me too.
Was on board in the fifties and still have some napkins and menu card. Never understand why the US has such a disregard to its recent history. Best from Southampton UK.
If you visit NYC, you will find the bronze letter "Q" from the Queen Elizabeth in an enclosure at 88 Pine Street. If you go to the west end of 13th Street, you will see the metal archway for Pier 54 and the faint signage for White Star and Cunard Lines. This is where the Titanic would have docked.
Reminders of the ocean liners are everywhere, especially in NYC, if you know where to look.
This ship is a national treasure and should be perserved .
Unfortunately that’s not what America does with its history. They only care about a ship if it has guns attached to it.
I’m a volunteer for USS NEW JERSEY just up the river, and over the last couple of months when coming aboard and then down below near the fantail i look to the southwest to see the stacks of the UNITED STATES still there.
This weekend might be the last time I’ll see her and that’s sad.
I have been following this since the 90s. At this point I feel mostly relief that *something* is being done.
I agree. I feel the same way.
yeah, and honestly if the choice is between reefing and scrapping, I would rather have her be a reef. At least people and animals can get some more use and enjoyment out of her for a while more.
As a kid, I built a model of the ship along with QEII, Canberra and others. I always loved reading about the ship and am sad too. I do look forward to possibly diving on her in Okaloosa one day and pay her homage.
Thank you for this video. I was a passenger on the SS United States as a teenager and have great memories of the journey. Eva
I was a young engineer working at Newport News Shipbuilding on the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the late 1960's. The SS United States was tied up at one of the piers in the shipyard, alongside the USS Enterprise (CVAN 65), and the SS Manhattan, the first commercial ship to make the Northwest Passage. Never was able to get aboard any of these ships, but it was amazing to see so much marine history in one place.
i'm so happy that i mannaged to put together her kit months before this happen
at least i can say my final fairwell to her on my exhibition (because i host one at my local libary where my model ships and trains are displayed)
The Revell or IMC kit? I rebuilt a badly built IMC a couple of years ago.
She’s actually quite similar to an Iowa. Same propeller configuration. Similar engineering plant. Now the speed makes a lot of sense!
My grandfather was a merchant marine who had the pleasure of spending time on this ship. I’ve got pictures of him on it 💜 I love that I get to learn more about the places he’s been through this channel! Thanks Sal👍
Wow I remember reading all about the SS United States when I was young. Its stats were amazing, and it looked so noble pictured cutting through the ocean.
They should have turned it into a museum a long time ago. Beautiful ship.
We are here for ya Sal. Salute to a real icon of Americana.
I remember traveling on that ship from US to France in the 60's. We had a beautiful suite. It had a beautiful swimming pool. Great memories.
I didn't realize she had previously been stripped down to such a degree. I totally agree with you Sal, hopefully some components can be preserved and better to reef than scrap. At least this way she can be visited by those able to dive. I served on the USCG cutter Duane WHEC 33, who was reefed with her sister ship the Bibb off the coast of Florida. This is a respectable end to a historically significant vessel. Sal, thank you so much for all you do!
Good news! There are plans to remove and preserve her funnels, mast and propellers for display.
@@doodledangernoodle2517bit sad that, the funnels are an iconic feature of her, she doesn't need butchered like that.
Beautiful story. Like old friends, I felt the same way when my ship, USS Mississippi CGN40 was chopped up. Gut punch, but so many great memories.
Well covered Sal, sad news indeed. Salty tears for the ship and the bitter death of rusting away. 😢
I boarded the United States in Norfolk in 1983. We bought linens and serviceware. It is an awesome ship.
My father was one of the thousands of workers who built the S S United States . I was born in 1952 at the Newport News Shipyard .The hospital back then was at the shipyard . My father said it was a good place for a hospital since shipyard workers were getting bad injuries all the time .Later he got a job at Langley Air Force Base for NACA . I had a great uncle that was on a crew that made the anchor/chain that's at the Mariners Museum . I haven't been back there since they were building the Ronald Regan .
How fitting a time for this. I'm a Mariner & I will be homeless this Tuesday. Only tears.
Sorry to hear that. Hope you find what you need.
It is touching to see a love for a machine and feel for it ..!
Ships have a Spirit and so do aircrafts
I can empathize with the feeling of sorrow and sadness
Thank you as always for the video Sal. I understand the strength of your feelings concerning this vessel. I am glad she at least will have a resting place of honor off the Florida coast as an attraction for divers and a new home for fish. Reefing is in my opinion a certain measure of respect. She deserved better but she got what she got.
Peaceful Skies
I'm a base commander for US Submarine Veterans. I am so glad we've preserved as many WWII era submarines as we have. Come visit the Cod in Cleveland and the National Museum of the Great Lakes here in Toledo.
My grandfather was on her record-setting translant voyage. As a boy, when I went to Norfolk to visit my grandparents, I remember seeing her stacks dominating the waterfront
Very lucky as a young boy to have seen her in all her glory arriving and leaving from Southampton. Sad news today. Memories returning tonight after watching this episode.
My 👍 is for Sal’s coverage of this sad situation as well as for his excellent coverage of shipping and how it ties into our lives.
From a different perspective, I’d give 👎👎
That’s from the perspective of someone long interested in the history of ships and all things maritime.
It is also flavored by being a nuclear science & marine engineering grad of Sal’s alma mater, NY Maritime.
The flavoring goes even deeper. Can’t recall whether it was my 3rd or 2nd class (sophomore or junior) year at Maritime. But one weekend instead of heading home to Long Island I stayed on campus and then headed to Manhattan with a classmate. Somehow we wound up on the SS United States. After a self-guided tour we met one of the engineer officers and had dinner with him.
In 1952 my family sailed ro England on the SS United States. What I remember is standing on the dock with my Mom and brothers looking up at the biggest thing that I had ever seen. We were a military family going to live with Dad in England.
The prop arrangement sounds similar to Battleship NJ. It’s docked across the river from SS United States. Sad demise to a remarkable ship! Thanks for the video Sal!
Didn't Ryan visit the United States and say the engineering plant is essentially the same as the Iowas. All that power pushing a lighter ship.
@@richardhiskett5422 , I think he did…I’ll have to go back through his channel and look.
@@richardhiskett5422I believe the engines are from USS Forrestal class carriers. The biggest carriers at the time.
From 2003 to 2009 Norwegian Cruise Line owned SSUS and they couldn't do anything with the ship.
A huge THANK YOU to the S.S.United States and everyone who has ever served on it. STILL the fastest ship ever! Remarkable.
Rest in Peace, ol' girl.💐
The fastest liner. Not the fastest ship. Look up French destroyer "Le Terrible"
Sal, great video on an amazing ship. I did not know it could make over 40 kts! That’s amazing speed now, so very impressive for the 50s. Going to order those books now. Add to the amazing list of books that you listed a few months ago. Thank you for your efforts!
Wow. This brings back memories, My first ‘real’ job was at American Export Lines (17 Battery Place, NYC). Late 1973. They had already divested themselves of the SS United States (though I never missed an opportunity to point it out on I Love Lucy). They still operated the Savannah, if memory serves, but there were really no ports that would welcome the only privately-operated nuclear cargo vessel.
I used to drive past her a lot in Philly a few years ago when I was living in northern VA and working in NJ. Now I’m an airline pilot and I love seeing her when flying into PHL. Flying in there in two days so I’ll have to give her a silent salute as we pass by.
Mentioned here for no reason at all: Prettiest ship I've ever seen (never seen her in person) is the Savannah... Nuclear-powered cargo ship built by US (in 50's?) to showoff. Beautiful lines. Wonderful looking ship. Don't know what became of her. I guess I have a research project for tonight.
For a while she was a museum on display with the USS Yorktown. I saw here there, but - sadly - did not tour her, I spent my time on the CV, the DD & the sub.
The Savannah was in the James River reserve fleet off Fort Eustis when I was stationed there from 2002 to 2006. Not sure if it is still there or not.
The NS Savannah is in Baltimore, has been for a while. They do tours. The fact that the ship was nuclear powered meant that preservation was necessary, at least until the reactor containment cooled off enough to be gutted of its contaminated machinery.
@@blockstacker5614 Thanks mate. I'll be sure to have a look next time I'm up that way.
@@davecolman9446 No problem!
Sal. in just this video clip of the SSUSS you have provided a great remarkable story of her history. I think it was a commendable, great story of her. I feel something to be proud of, not saddened by. She has served her time with HONORS.
The pinnacle of commercial shipping except for one small detail; it lost money hand over fist. it was a marvel for its time; but it's time is long gone. At least they finally figured out what to do with it.
That is sad but I'm glad she'll not be turned into scrap. My one and only ship model was of the SS United States, I built in the 1950's (probably a Revell kit).This was unusual for me as I was really into airplane kits back then. It was a very nice-looking model.
I built it as well back in the fifties. The kit was reissued about twenty years ago and this time I built it with photoetch railings, rigged it, and mounted it on a simulated water surface inside a display case so it stays dust free.
When I taught a course on Marine Geography at Old Dominion University I assigned a field trip to the Mariners Museum in Newport News so the students could be aware of the history of the SS United States. The museum had an extensive curated display of the ship including artifacts and information about Gibbs. Sad news.
I've had the pleasure of sailing on some of these old school cruise liners over the years when my dad preferred to travel by ship over airliners whenever possible. Thinking back, they were truly iconic experiences that I will never forget.
When I visit IKEA, I sit at the windows and have a lunch. Watching the USS United States is the view at the port across the street.
I was saddened at the news but glad to have found your channel. I have a particular interest in US liners as I was an "army brat" and crossed the Atlantic 5 tines by the time I was 16 (i.e. 1964,) going back and forth as my father was transferred. Ship travel was normal in those days, air crossings reserved for officers' families for the most part. I recall the first two crossings were on WW2 troopships, the Hodges and the Rose. Later cruises were on American Export Lines liners SS Constitution and SS Independence. The latter two vessels were a treat compared to the USNS transports, although the transports were not in their wartime state and were comfortable enough. I'd love to know what happened to the AEL liners - I think one or both of them might have ended up in Hawaii. Either way, I've subscribed and will peruse your videos in the coming days and weeks as they are of great interest and well made. Kudos!
i Remember seeing Her when i was driving trucks to Philadelphia, just beside Penn Wharehouse. in 2000 She still had the Presidential Flag on Her Bow ! Majestic Ship ! 37Knots is incredible !!
Excellent Commentary on a sad state of affairs. Thanks so much for your efforts!
In the brief moment I lived in Philly, I saw the United States across the road from the IKEA. Remember reading into it once I realized what she was! While I'm not surprised that she's not turning into a museum ship - the refurbishment would be way too much, it's sad to see such a piece of history be sunk..
We already have museums in Philadelphia that are far more historically important and need care.
Thanks!
I remember seeing the ship docked down river from US Navy NOB in Norfolk in the 70's. You had to go past it on Hampton Roads Blvd going in and out of the base. I'm not a big fan of sinking ships for reefs there's just something wrong about sunken ships. I would have had it scrapped years ago and at least recoup some of the cost some of the owners have incurred being obstinate. Every piece of equipment has a life span and memories are better than unnecessary costs. Saving the screws is a great thing and I'd like to see them.
Hampton Blvd.
You beat me to it... I was about to add that the ship had sat there, just south of the D&S Piers, at least from '74 to '76, when I was aboard ship. My ex-wife and I rented a little open boat with an outboard, from the Navy Recreational Services, and cruised the waterfront.
Went idling down the port side of the United States and ran our hands along the big riveted plates. Quite the perspective from the waterline, looking up.
11:54 I understand your grief here. A vessel I knew was reefed in 2018, Twin Capes, and I watched the video once and never again. I knew a lot of the crew and quite a few said they didn't watch it at all. So sad to see but certainly better than razor blades.
My late Mom’s favorite ship. In the 1950s before she got married she’d save up her money and go between the U. S. and Germany (she was originally from near Königsberg, her mother and sisters were living in West Germany and she was living in Chicago, but she’d visit them) by ship sometimes. For her trip on the United States she booked an upper class cabin and was at the Captain’s table at least one night.
Sad that this is how the ship will end up, but not really a surprise…
Sal, I believe the plan for one funnel at least is to place it at the museum the conservancy is going to build on shore nearby her reefing location.
Thank you for covering this story. I am also extremely heartbroken over this tragedy. I was blessed to have sailed from New York to LeHarve on one of the last, if not the last voyage in 1969. I was 12 years old and remember it fondly. My dad, US Army Major, received orders to Germany and we were given the option to sail instead of flying over.
RIP SS UNITED STATES 🇺🇸 😢
Unfortunately it seems like we're about 40 years too late to save her. Still, I hope she'll be a good home for wildlife.
she had a shelf life of less than 10 years anyway being made of aluminium and steel
Smart observation: there are big decisions to be made around the 30-35 year time frame for any large vessel. Wait too long, and drydock can become too big a question mark. Cofferdam work just to get in shape to approach full repairs? Very large price tag and extended lead times to form & fit sections needed. Just doing the ultrasonic testing work and the following engineering analysis is a hefty job.
@@flinch622 Thanks. I appreciate the extra information, too.
@@joeconnolly89 Funny how we keep trying that combo. This was the big issue with the Austal LCS design, well that and apparently the USN was like "Nah, we don't need an active anode on this thing! It'll be just fine."
(I think anode is right but it could be a cathode.)
What an incredible shame
.. it is such a beautiful ship ... I was back east a number of years ago and spent a day in Philadelphia . Came around a corner and there she was . I recognized her right away and even though she was in bad shape her beautiful lines showed her off . With all of the enormous amounts of money the government wastes , just a meger amount would have been enough to restore her to where people could have appreciated her for many years to come .... Great call on the stacks !
I used to drive by that ship in Philly when I worked at a ships agency over there. RIP.
My Dad served in WW2 in the US Navy as an Electricians Mate 2 nd class. He had nothing but high praise for the 2 Captains that he served under in Europe and Asia. Those Captains were from the US Merchant Marine and very skilled. My Dad survived the war to return home, marry, raise a family and enjoy a great life !
Yes very sad news. It does have a lot of history. While living in the Norfolk area in the late 70’s and early 80’s. I remember seeing it many times while it was docked in Norfolk. I believe it was docked in Norfolk during my entire time living there. Also I remember the auction they had for the items on the ship. Unfortunately I did not try to take advantage of that opportunity to get something from it.
Enjoyed this honestly spoken & informative talk & l, too, share the speaker's sadness & disappointment at the outcome for this great ship.
Sad day for the nation, not just the merchant marine.
When I was a kid I remember seeing her being built at NN Shipbuilding. She was a gorgeous ship, and I felt a sense of pride seeing her from the old James River Bridge. Sorry to see her go but recreational divers should get the same feeling.
A sad but honourable end. Ship preservation is so expensive. How many preserved ships in America will still be afloat in a century? Britain never preserved battleship let alone a liner. We were bankrupt.
I believe the VICTORY is a battleship.
Never saw her. When I first started sailing (after the Navy) in 79, I sailed on a few US Lines ships, all cargo. There were a lot of "old timers" that would wax poetic about how great it was to be on!
There were alot that thought she'd be brought back as a cruise liner.
A shame to see her go, yet for an overall good purpose, instead of rotting away pier side.
Just wanted to say, I enjoy the touch of keeping the thumbnail on the first few seconds of the video. I had no idea until I just noticed, but I often want to see the thumbnail for a little before the video shows. Sals videos do that because he puts the thumbnail as the first couple seconds. I love it !
Magnificent ship from a bygone era. I think I saw her once passing the Lizard Point off the UK south-west coast in the 1960s at speed.
Did the DoD insist on a non-flammable grand piano?
That was William Francis Gibbs who insisted all the materials she was fitted and decorated with be flame-proof. Even the cloth materials were fibreglass. That’s amazing you had the opportunity to see her sailing by!
@@AndrewUtz3 Regarding flame-proofing, I believe that was to enable the ship to double as a troop ship during the Cold War period in Europe.
Regarding the sighting, I was in my early teens staying at a hotel beside the lighthouse at Lizard. The building is still there but now a youth hostel. Beneath the lighthouse is a brightly painted wall marking the official eastern end of the oceanic crossing, I imagine for Blue Ribband purposes. I guess from offshore, aligning the white lighthouse tower with the vertical strip on the wall beneath provides a finishing line for record attempts.
The liner in question was passing on the horizon at speed and I was looking through a fairly powerful telescope owned by the hotelier. I recall it was difficult to track the ship through the eyepiece , because it was moving so fast. I cannot be certain it was the SS United States. I was told it was. I presumed he would know because of regular sailing times to and from NY. Judging by the speed, what else could it have been? I like to think it was and imagine what a trans-Atlantic crossing would feel like today.
I went over to the SS United States channel and the video content is amazing and educational !
They tried to save one of the three sisters that transported people across the river Humber here in the UK. Unfortunately the Lincoln Castle, after being at several homes the trust didnt succeed in saving her and she was cut up for scrap another sister the Tatashall Castle is on The River Thames the other Farringford Castle is somewhere on the south coast.
The British Labour gov took two of the ships of the line from the Napoleonic wars out to sea and sank them in about 1950.......insanity,
I share your feelings Capt. Sal about the SSUNITED STATES. As a life long merchant seaman, who is medically beached I really miss the ships, sea, and the many shipmates I made over the years. The iconic SS UNITED STATES represents a symbol of what the U.S. MERCHANT MARINE used to be, and no longer is. Such a shame the vessel now must meet her current demise as an artificial reef in the Caribbean Sea. That said it is better for her to RIP in Neptunes Kingfdom than in the Ship Breakers Yard. It is still hard for this old Mariner to swallow.
Art Rogers, Hawsepipe Mariner
Great episode. Thanks!
Hello 😊. I wondered what would become of this vessel. So many enthusiasts have been making videos of her and reminiscing about her glory days.
It’s too bad it couldn’t have been preserved.
At least her existence is well documented. Thanks for the video 😊💎
Breaks my heart. A beautiful ship. The United States was a very handsome vessel, but also will suffer the same fate of others.
I saw the SS United States, once as it arrived at Southampton in the early 1960's. It looked so elegantly sleek and futuristic. The Queen Mary was in port too, it really was a magnificent sight to witness the two ships together. The second time was around 2015 driving through Philadelphia. It was heartbreaking to see it deteriorate - I knew it would never be preserved, it would be such an enormous task and cost. I agree with Sal, scrapping would be dreadfully sad, and scuttling it is more fitting so that some divers can marvel at her.
Her sister ship SS AMERICA (American Star) was being towed to be scrapped , broke free and ran aground at Fuertaventura (Canary Islands) Locals salvaged many treasures including decorative murals by my father, Pierre Bourdelle 😢
Fall of 1982 the crew of CG41411 from Station New York successfully fought a transformer fire on the pier at the NY Maritime Academy. I was the seaman aboard. William Willis was the Coxswain, don't remember which Engineer was aboard that day. We got the fire out before the NYC Fire Tug "Firefighter" arrived on scene from Battery Park. That tug put out something crazy like 50,000 gallons per hour. She has since been replaced.
Sad considering how the Queen Mary, a foreign ship, sits pretty in California
The QM has a far greater history
Wonderful vessel...When my family returned to the US from 3 years in Munich, Germany it was on this ship. We had a great trip.....great food, we got to watch a movie (I was 10 years old)...it was a blast!
I was 3 years old when it was launched. RIP
Dear Sal, I really enjoy your content and follow you & Ward Carol weekly. I’m a resident of Okaloosa County and I hope to come up at some point to see the SS United States while she is being prepared for her fate. Hopefully our paths will connect at some point over the next year. I was stationed in Norfolk in the 1980s, and also remember seeing her on the water front during my active duty in the USN 87-91. I would love to meet you one day. Cheers, - Wright Sublette
Bibliography Sal...well done...
Damn I traveled from New York to Germany on this ship when I was 5 years old back in the 50's. My father was a US Army Sargent. It was a beautiful Ocean Liner. Nothing like the cruise ships today. I still remember leaving New York and seeing the Statue of Liberty. I still have the little book they gave to passengers about the ships services and schedule. So sad. I gave your video a like anyway in reverence to this great ship.
Artificialy reefs are wonderful for aquatic growth and fishery support. It had its day but in 2024 it's nothing but scrap shaped like a ship.
Now it can entertain (its purpose was to entertain passengers after all) divers for hundreds of years.
It wont last 100s years. look at what is left of the titanic. it will collapse into a rust stain quickly.
I understand monetary cost can be a sound reason to scuttle a ship but it’s sad to see such magnificent ships left to fall to such conditions that they end up being scrapped. We’re losing too many of our maritime treasures that helped shape the USA. Love the channel Sal.
Yes, this is a national embarrassment.
It’s always a sad affair when any ship is sunk, but the real tragedy is the lack of cars and neglect she was allowed to endure for so many years.
As a marine service technician, the upkeep of a small vessel in water is several thousand per year for a 35' boat. This thing is 1000' long? She has to be drydocked, and bottom cleaned and repainted every 3 years. The parasitcs would cost millions of dollars, otherwise the sea turns her to ore. Then there are those pesky storms... She will now shelter many from the turbulent storms. They tend to swim all day.
Her superstructure is made from aluminum. That made her more durable against the weathering on the topside. It kept basic upkeep in these years since her interior fittings were stripped more economically feasible than it would have been otherwise. The ocean is impressive in its ability to return whatever is immersed back into its constituent elements. How long can a ship go between dry-docking and repainting the hull before corrosion sets in?
Greetings from Frankfurt Germany. When I was 13 years old my family and I voyaged on the SS United States from Le Havre, France to New York. I think the journey took about 4 days. It was the fall of 1966 and the North Atlantic was grey and rough. My mother was afraid of flying so we always travelled by ship. My twin sister was, as usual, incapacitated with seasickness. I remember the calls to meals that was made with a hand xylophone and getting formally dressed for dinner. We were assigned a waiter who I recall being somewhat aloof. I remember checking, daily, the ship's incremental progress on a large public map of the Atlantic Ocean. Travelling today is far less dignified; with body scanners, 100ml liquid restrictions and shoe removal requirements. My most memorable remembrance was passing the Statue of Liberty in an early morning fog. The few early morning passengers spoke in very hushed tones and my 13 year old brain realised something special was happening. The SS United States is an important part of America, just like the Statue of Liberty or the Washington Monument. She is a testimony to America's exuberance and optimism. Please America, keep this symbol of America alive.
It may have been in Newport News briefly but it was docked in Norfolk for at least 8 years after its 1969 retirement. The amount wasted on dock fees for 55 years is astounding.
A late friend of ours was the chidrens program director on the uss UNITED STATES during the 50s
Although disappointing, I'm glad that the ship will stop just rusting away. She deserves better.
My father, A Navy Academy guy, took the family to NYC back in 1958 (circa) and we saw the ship on the pier. My Dad said the Navy owned the power plant and some of it's speed stuff was "secret". Wow, did that get my little 11 year old brain whirling. Can't wait to read the books you recommended. (Go Mass Maritime!)
Big win for the Emerald Coast diving community.
You know the sea life will be fascinated with it too! It would be an optimal new study point regarding a new large fixture and the local inhabitants. Complete with caves.
And a host of barracuda looking for a snack.
It's trash, who needs to litter the ocean floor like this?
@@johnsmith1474 You're a hateful little shit, aren't you.
my visions of a quality Liner are all the Teak decks, Oak trims, Pine or Spruce wall panels
Solid slabs of wood bars, solid timber staircases, the Cork wood dance floors
The SS States was metal, metal and more metal for a constant war footing focus
seriously , no great loss, just a planned war machine. The Queen Mary was pure Lux by comparison , just the sheer of those titans was awesome.
A profound sense of grief.
I remember as a young boy building a scale model of the ship, and have been following this from afar for many years. I know in WWII the role that fast troop ships played with the Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth that were able to cross the Atlantic unescorted despite the U-boats because they were so fast. I know that was part of the reason that the SS United States was built.
I built a scale model of it as well! So sad that she won't be saved. I met W.F.Gibbs when I was 10 y/o.
Thank goodness!! It's a dilapidated dump that no one is ever going to waste the money on to restore. Ryan from the Battleship New Jersey channel did a tour of it a few years ago; it's a gutted hulk.
USMMA 1982. I've always admired "Fort Scupper" ... Especially the night that a bunch of us commandeered a Boston Whaler and drove across the Sound and painted the side of the Empire State. I believe it was in red paint in simply said "KP 81 82" ... Would have been 1980, I believe. ... That was the night of a "mixer" so I'm pretty sure "social lubricants" were involved. ... All joking aside, great channel.
And very kind of you to suggest that each of our alma mater receive a stack. ... Don't remember having seen the propeller (1993) at my 30th in 2012, it was dark and we didn't go to the waterfront.
Before sailing as an engineer I sailed on the SS American Lynx as an engine cadet. All of the old-timers always bragged about how they had sailed the BIG U. ... I didn't know that it had only been skippered by Fort Schuyler grads.
When I later worked in Norfolk I used to sail my sailboat by the United States along its berth. I later found a shop (on Colley Avenue I believe) that had a large (18x24?) photograph of the United States being shifted in berth. It was in the middle of the Elizabeth River, sun faded on one side. Gave that photo to a classmate.
Also had a copy of THE BIG SHIP which I gave to that classmate. Inside of the book it had various trinkets from the vessel, mostly paperwork like menus. I do recall the store had things like ship's china for sale but I didn't pick up any. I had a sailboat and I think I actually bought life jackets.
Seems like 100 years ago.
One of your better episodes. Thank you.