Crystal to return the historic SS United States to service as the fastest cruise vessel in the world
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Crystal Cruises has joined with SS United States Conservancy to renovate, rebuild and relaunch SS United States, which was known as ‘America’s Flagship’ before she retired in 1969.
Crystal, which is already in the process of expanding its own fleet, will cover all costs associated with preserving the ship while undertaking a technical feasibility study, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2016.
“The prospect of revitalising the SS United States and re-establishing her as ‘America’s Flagship’ once again is a thrilling one,” said Edie Rodriguez, Crystal president and CEO. “It will be a very challenging undertaking, but we are determined to apply the dedication and innovation that has always been the ship’s hallmark. We are honoured to work with the SS United States Conservancy and government agencies in exploring the technical feasibility study so we can ultimately embark on the journey of transforming her into a sophisticated luxury cruise liner for the modern era.”
Designed by William Francis Gibbs as part of a secret Pentagon programme during the Cold War, SS United States is the largest passenger ship ever designed and built in America. The ship was developed so she could be quickly converted from a luxury cruise liner into a naval troopship that could carry 15,000 troops over 10,000 nautical miles – almost half way around the globe – without refuelling in the event of war.
Before her retirement in 1969, SS United States was regarded as the ‘epitome of American post-war innovation and design’ when she launched in 1952 and set the transatlantic speed record on her maiden voyage – a record that stands to this day.
SS United States will be extensively rebuilt and fitted with new engines and marine technology to ensure she remains the world’s fastest cruise vessel and meets all necessary safety and maritime industry requirements. The modern United States by Crystal Cruises will be transformed into an 800-guest vessel, featuring 400 luxurious suites measuring about 350sqft with dining, entertainment, spa and other luxury guest amenities. Features of the original SS United States, such as the Promenade and Navajo Lounge, will be retained.
Crystal will develop several itineraries for the 60,000gt United States by Crystal Cruises, including the traditional transatlantic voyages from New York City, US and also cruises from key US ports. The ship will also sail international voyages.
“Crystal’s ambitious vision for the SS United States will ensure our nation’s flagship is once again a global ambassador for the highest standards of American innovation, quality and design,” said Susan Gibbs, executive director of the SS United States Conservancy and granddaughter of the ship’s designer. “We are thrilled that the SS United States is now poised to make a triumphant return to sea and that the ship’s historical legacy will continue to intrigue and inspire a new generation.”
To facilitate the complex technical feasibility study, Crystal has appointed retired US Coast Guard Rear Admiral Tim Sullivan to lead a team with a wide range of cruise line technical, legal and regulatory expertise.
“Tim’s integrity and leadership will help ensure the feasibility study is conducted with appropriately wide consultation, and rigorous adherence to both safety and environmental awareness,” said Rodriguez.
Meanwhile, the SS United States Conservancy will continue to expand its curatorial and archival collections and will work with Crystal to establish shipboard displays and other educational programmes. Planning is also underway for a land-based museum dedicated to preserving the legacy of ‘America’s Flagship’, which will feature a wide range of original artifacts and historic components from the ship’s heyday.