“The prospect of revitalizing the SS United States and reestablishing her as ‘America’s Flagship’ once again is a thrilling one. 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,” said Crystal President and CEO Edie Rodriguez. “We are honored 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.”
Has the United States puzzle finally been solved? (Oceanliners Magazine Collection)
“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 Gibbs. “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 meet modern demands and be in full regulatory compliance, United States will have to be extensively re-built to meet over 60 years of new maritime rules and shipbuilding practices. Crystal says the liner will be transformed into an 800-guest-capacity vessel featuring 400 “luxurious suites” measuring about 350 square feet with dining, entertainment, spa and other luxury guest amenities that are true to the ship’s storied history. Features of the original United States such as the Promenade and Navajo Lounge will be retained, while new engines and sophisticated marine technology will be installed to maintain her title as the fastest cruise vessel in the world.
“It is truly a privilege for the world’s most awarded luxury cruise line to be entrusted with the opportunity of restoring a ship that served as a symbol of patriotism and maritime supremacy and bring her into the modern day, while also giving guests a taste of a bygone era of luxury travel,” Rodriguez said.
Crystal says it will be examining new itineraries for the 60,000 GRT United States, including not only the traditional transatlantic voyages from New York, but also cruises from key U.S. ports as well as world cruises.
To continue, click the NEXT button on the top of this page.
