Deep Exploration of the S.S. United States - The First Lady of the Seas

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You can learn more about Conservancy and donate to help a save America’s Flagship by going to www.SSUSC.org.
The SS United States - America’s flagship. The fastest and safest ocean liner in history and a classified military service ship in the event of war. Winner of the Blue Riband and one of the last remaining classic ocean liners left in the world.
She sits, quiet and dormant, at Pier 82 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a reminder of the triumph of the trans-Atlantic passenger service, and waiting in hope for an eventual second life. Whatever may come of her, this ship has stories to tell us.
Thanks to the wonderful assistance of the SS United States Conservancy, my friends and I have been given access to the ship to come aboard, explore her history, uncovering it as we go below decks, and find parts of the ship never before seen online. We’ll take a step back into the 1950’s and 60’s, with this magnificent ship serving as our window to the past.
A special thank you to ‪@dumpsterfireproductions‬ for their assistance with our Unreal 5 assets!

Пікірлер: 1 100

  • @lindaschmitz2850
    @lindaschmitz2850 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @juliemanarin4127

    @juliemanarin4127

    Жыл бұрын

    What a great story!! My parents came from England and Italy! They were on one of the Queens! Mary or Elizabeth.

  • @peeron6829

    @peeron6829

    11 ай бұрын

    Maybe you find the photos one day❤

  • @michaelbramall6799

    @michaelbramall6799

    11 ай бұрын

    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?

  • @selinagibson7821

    @selinagibson7821

    10 ай бұрын

    Wow!! What a cool experience!! Thank you for sharing!

  • @Quinn37

    @Quinn37

    10 ай бұрын

    Cool story, thank you!

  • @thomasflynn198
    @thomasflynn198 Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @michaelkinville177

    @michaelkinville177

    Жыл бұрын

    What a grand adventure

  • @juliemanarin4127

    @juliemanarin4127

    Жыл бұрын

    How awesome!

  • @ronaldhall2489

    @ronaldhall2489

    8 ай бұрын

    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

  • @chickenpancake1614
    @chickenpancake1614 Жыл бұрын

    These big documentaries are insane. It’s like this is a TV channel for ships and exploration.

  • @guyk2260

    @guyk2260

    Жыл бұрын

    Production values are nigh of proffessional TV level

  • @Jedi.Toby.M

    @Jedi.Toby.M

    Жыл бұрын

    Couldn't agree more mate! Well put! Cheers!

  • @perseus32366

    @perseus32366

    Жыл бұрын

    This is my favorite channel on KZread!

  • @terracottaneemtree6697

    @terracottaneemtree6697

    Жыл бұрын

    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?

  • @terracottaneemtree6697

    @terracottaneemtree6697

    Жыл бұрын

    @Auschwitz Soccer Ref. Good point. The comment we are responding to is idiotic.

  • @cdfdesantis699
    @cdfdesantis699 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @johnfranklin5277

    @johnfranklin5277

    Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @cdfdesantis699

    @cdfdesantis699

    Жыл бұрын

    @@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

    @Kaidhicksii

    Жыл бұрын

    @@cdfdesantis699 Ocean liners, not cruise ships. Big difference. Otherwise though, you make a solid point.

  • @cdfdesantis699

    @cdfdesantis699

    Жыл бұрын

    @@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.

  • @rogerrendzak8055

    @rogerrendzak8055

    Жыл бұрын

    All you have to do is win, the Mega Millions jackpot, and you got yourself, an ocean liner😁!!

  • @monsieurcommissaire1628
    @monsieurcommissaire1628 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @michaelfiguly1654

    @michaelfiguly1654

    Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @matthewbowen5841

    @matthewbowen5841

    Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @scottread

    @scottread

    Жыл бұрын

    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

    @matthewbowen5841

    Жыл бұрын

    @@scottread I mean... a jetski is faster still. Apples to horseshoes here.

  • @tealeaflist

    @tealeaflist

    Жыл бұрын

    @@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.

  • @thegreyinitiate3680
    @thegreyinitiate3680 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @gamerfan8445

    @gamerfan8445

    Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @MineTwine45

    @MineTwine45

    Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @gamerfan8445

    @gamerfan8445

    Жыл бұрын

    @@MineTwine45 well you can see her from the stern of BB NJ

  • @HANKSANDY69420

    @HANKSANDY69420

    Жыл бұрын

    Greetings fellow Titanic/general maritime enthusiast

  • @rogerrendzak8055

    @rogerrendzak8055

    Жыл бұрын

    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🤔???

  • @monsieurcommissaire1628
    @monsieurcommissaire1628 Жыл бұрын

    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

    @monsieurcommissaire1628

    Жыл бұрын

    @notfiveo Yeah, Big U's interiors weren't super plush, but Gibbs was obsessed with fireproofing her, so materials choices were somewhat limited.

  • @jandejong1286

    @jandejong1286

    Жыл бұрын

    Stripping the interior means: on death row…a short vision decision

  • @DerpyPossum
    @DerpyPossum Жыл бұрын

    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 👍

  • @randypotter204

    @randypotter204

    Жыл бұрын

    All of his videos are like this. Thoroughly researched with high production standards.

  • @HANKSANDY69420

    @HANKSANDY69420

    Жыл бұрын

    Ye

  • @DerpyPossum

    @DerpyPossum

    Жыл бұрын

    @@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…

  • @terracottaneemtree6697

    @terracottaneemtree6697

    Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @terracottaneemtree6697

    @terracottaneemtree6697

    Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @MountainCry
    @MountainCry Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @profoundcake
    @profoundcake Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @merafirewing6591
    @merafirewing6591 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @thomasewing2656

    @thomasewing2656

    Жыл бұрын

    If only the Titanic were in such good shape!

  • @gtaitz

    @gtaitz

    8 ай бұрын

    @@thomasewing2656 They are trying to make a new Titanic.

  • @darthdevious
    @darthdevious Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @InkblotHyena
    @InkblotHyena Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @baritonebynight

    @baritonebynight

    Жыл бұрын

    Sadly, it would take a generous billionaire and they don't exist.

  • @presidentirinavladimirovna7054

    @presidentirinavladimirovna7054

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@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.

  • @victorcolon1454

    @victorcolon1454

    Жыл бұрын

    I wish money from other ship-related charities (for example, the TITANIC museum) can be chipped in to help the S.S. United States.

  • @pilsplease7561

    @pilsplease7561

    Жыл бұрын

    @@baritonebynight They said total cost would be like $10 million thats cheap

  • @ksull72487

    @ksull72487

    10 ай бұрын

    $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.

  • @TheCousinEddie
    @TheCousinEddie Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @rogkristen50
    @rogkristen50 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @bearmcquade2846

    @bearmcquade2846

    Жыл бұрын

    Best of times my friend.

  • @sethcopeland4362
    @sethcopeland4362 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @FitzCritz1952
    @FitzCritz1952 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @jst7714
    @jst7714 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @Yassified3425
    @Yassified3425 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @benjaminsmith-haddon7316

    @benjaminsmith-haddon7316

    Жыл бұрын

    I noticed that. Cavitation.

  • @lm7bird680

    @lm7bird680

    Жыл бұрын

    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

  • @Kaidhicksii

    @Kaidhicksii

    Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @Yassified3425

    @Yassified3425

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Kaidhicksii It's still a defect that engineers are actively trying to fix.

  • @arpsichord7474

    @arpsichord7474

    Ай бұрын

    @@Yassified3425 On ALL ships.

  • @talcoge67
    @talcoge67 Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @christinewillcox-jones3028

    @christinewillcox-jones3028

    Жыл бұрын

    I saw it last year what a mess. I stood their and cried remembering how my coming here on it changed my life forever

  • @talcoge67

    @talcoge67

    Жыл бұрын

    @@christinewillcox-jones3028 I hope someone will have the money to do something with it.

  • @bo7341
    @bo7341 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @lmo1960

    @lmo1960

    Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @bo7341

    @bo7341

    Жыл бұрын

    @@lmo1960 that's why I said on board and not cruising.

  • @HANKSANDY69420

    @HANKSANDY69420

    Жыл бұрын

    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

  • @HANKSANDY69420

    @HANKSANDY69420

    Жыл бұрын

    @@lmo1960 Ah, the worst kind of killjoy... *The one who's speaking **_facts_*

  • @lenaistalar8032
    @lenaistalar8032 Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @bln8285
    @bln8285 Жыл бұрын

    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

  • @AimSidewinder
    @AimSidewinder Жыл бұрын

    No way... He's done it!

  • @AlexanderFort

    @AlexanderFort

    Жыл бұрын

    He did it. That crazy son of a b**ch did it. Haha

  • @LDD911
    @LDD911 Жыл бұрын

    Tom, that was magnificent! I learned so much about this beautiful old girl. She deserves to be saved and preserved.

  • @Jedi.Toby.M
    @Jedi.Toby.M Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @samanthab1923
    @samanthab1923 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @jeremyreese9663

    @jeremyreese9663

    9 ай бұрын

    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.

  • @Thirdgen83

    @Thirdgen83

    10 күн бұрын

    @@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)...

  • @m.streicher8286
    @m.streicher8286 Жыл бұрын

    I said this on your Centralia vid but the way you overlay old photos onto modern footage is great. I like it.

  • @TheMaineSurveyor
    @TheMaineSurveyor Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @davidboucher5393
    @davidboucher5393 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @imagereader_9
    @imagereader_9 Жыл бұрын

    Your tour of the machinery space sent me on something of a 'horrifying flashback'. 😄 Many years ago I worked as an engineering technician for a shipyard. This shipyard did new construction as well as refits. One of the projects they were looking at was converting an old Washington state ferry into a casino boat that some wealthy fellow had bought. The boat handn't moved under its own power for about 20 years. One of the jobs within in the job was to determine what work had to be done to get it back in running condition. One day I was on a grating catwalk in the shaft alley between the boats two propeller shafts. The catwalk had several removable sections for maintenance access and cleaning, and at that time a few of them had been removed and placed who knows where. As I walked along the catwalk I had to skip over the gaps the removed sections created. The shipyard had rigged temporary lighting, and when I got all the way to the end of the walk the lighting WENT OUT!. Not in my life had I been in such complete darkness, and without a headlight style hard hat or even a flashlight! For about ten terrifying minutes I was there all alone, until finally the lights came back on. Phew!

  • @PartTimeExplorer

    @PartTimeExplorer

    Жыл бұрын

    That is terrifying!

  • @imagereader_9

    @imagereader_9

    Жыл бұрын

    @@PartTimeExplorer Yes, and it was also a 'duh' moment for me. You bet that before I set foot back on that creepy hulk In came armed with a flashlight firmly clipped to my belt! BTW, before I scoot off, let me join the legions of viewers in praise of your terrific work. You might call yourself 'Part-Time Explorer' but the quality of your efforts bespeaks of 'Big Time - Full Time'!😀

  • @SeaTravelr123
    @SeaTravelr123 Жыл бұрын

    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

  • @jamesburns2232

    @jamesburns2232

    Жыл бұрын

    Jordon and Eric fought to save the SS United States until they both died.

  • @stevejurkovic436
    @stevejurkovic436 Жыл бұрын

    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 , ❤

  • @robg9236

    @robg9236

    6 ай бұрын

    You gonna pay for it?

  • @ikkelimburg3552

    @ikkelimburg3552

    5 ай бұрын

    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.

  • @Thirdgen83

    @Thirdgen83

    10 күн бұрын

    @@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)...

  • @sookieb_88
    @sookieb_88 Жыл бұрын

    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 😊

  • @CaseyJonesNumber1

    @CaseyJonesNumber1

    Жыл бұрын

    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...

  • @robertbarron4274
    @robertbarron42746 ай бұрын

    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.

  • @guyk2260
    @guyk2260 Жыл бұрын

    Outstanding work there Tom , you and your team have surpassed yourselves with this wonderful look at such an icon . Thank you so much for putting all the time into this documentary , truly deserves to go viral

  • @dishsoap1
    @dishsoap1 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @uh869
    @uh869 Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @kimdearing9660
    @kimdearing966011 ай бұрын

    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.

  • @FotosbyFrankie
    @FotosbyFrankie Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @Freakingfantasticfilms
    @Freakingfantasticfilms Жыл бұрын

    Another classic video! Good job Tom!

  • @justinguy743
    @justinguy743 Жыл бұрын

    You are such an amazing historian! I really enjoy your documentaries as the the effort and quality truly shows. Keep up the great work!

  • @stuntgirl56-therachelvande24
    @stuntgirl56-therachelvande246 ай бұрын

    great narration, super music and the insert of old archival photos of what is now is a great way to depict what was a spectacular piece of engineering of the day

  • @olympicnut
    @olympicnut Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @Dakiraun
    @Dakiraun Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @Kaidhicksii

    @Kaidhicksii

    Жыл бұрын

    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. :)

  • @Dakiraun

    @Dakiraun

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Kaidhicksii Now that is really cool to hear - hope you succeed in this! The ship industry is well overdue for a major revolution. :)

  • @sheikahslate0243

    @sheikahslate0243

    Жыл бұрын

    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

  • @connormclernon26
    @connormclernon26 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @RenMi86
    @RenMi86 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @PartTimeExplorer

    @PartTimeExplorer

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for the support!

  • @tjoedarascal4617
    @tjoedarascal46176 ай бұрын

    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!

  • @roadweary5252
    @roadweary5252 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @JB-ie9hj

    @JB-ie9hj

    Жыл бұрын

    Do you have any information on the RXR Reality deal ? . Thanks .

  • @sonnypruitt6639
    @sonnypruitt6639 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @hirambrashier1449
    @hirambrashier1449 Жыл бұрын

    I really like your videos. Been binge watching quite a few. You are the real deal.

  • @jamesexploringonline872
    @jamesexploringonline8724 ай бұрын

    Hi guys, I just wanted to let you know I thoroughly enjoyed this post. Thank you. James. Australia 🇦🇺

  • @RogueSith07
    @RogueSith07 Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @guilhermesiffer4904
    @guilhermesiffer4904 Жыл бұрын

    Holy hell man, I was amazed with the animations on the Collins line vids but I've never seen animations like this

  • @Austinatw
    @Austinatw Жыл бұрын

    Love the early morning uploads!

  • @dl_0002
    @dl_0002 Жыл бұрын

    It's so nice to see the story of a ship that was wholly successful as opposed to being a disaster. Feel-good vibes.

  • @ddewcifer
    @ddewcifer19 күн бұрын

    I'm from Philly and I'm obsessed with ships, this pier is right near the ikea, i'd go to the pier and just go stare at the SS United States for hours. I love this ship so much. Very envious that you got to explore her decks.

  • @myriadmaestro572
    @myriadmaestro57211 ай бұрын

    I am glad a ship this majestic and history-filled still lives. I hope she gets the refurbishment she deserves someday.

  • @TheAsmrAddict888

    @TheAsmrAddict888

    8 ай бұрын

    As of right now Philly wants it gone. Plans to demolish and scrap is all that's happening right now. Sad.

  • @MorrisHillmanProductions

    @MorrisHillmanProductions

    7 ай бұрын

    😢

  • @arnepianocanada
    @arnepianocanada Жыл бұрын

    You have a splendidly dignified voice and - may I say as a Canadian 🇨🇦 - a wonderful American accent. I could listen to you for hours.

  • @n3adf
    @n3adf Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @lorrieleaver2447
    @lorrieleaver2447 Жыл бұрын

    My father Herbie Katz worked aboard the SS United States 🇺🇸 and met my mother whilst docked in Southampton. I still have their letters and lots of memorabilia from the ship. As children we would cross over from Southampton to New York and back several times a year. I loved those crossings and despite being so young I have retained the memories of each crossing with such love and pride. Ceaser our steward would often come to our house bringing chocolate chip ice-cream 😋and tales of the crossings. I was privileged enough to meet celebrities and the occasional Royal who loved the ship and entertainment. The food was amazing and you could order virtually anything you wanted. One of my favourite desserts was the Baked Alaska served with flames 🔥 burning. Such elegance these memories will stay with me throughout my life and I only pray that someone like @RichardBranson will buy her for a future life. It’s the most wonderful way to travel and loosing an hour a day means no jet lag. I’ll follow up with more tales of life on the ocean waves aboard the best ship ever built the SS United States 🇺🇸

  • @GloriousSEAGRUB
    @GloriousSEAGRUB Жыл бұрын

    Love your videos!

  • @joaoalbertodosanjosgomes1536

    @joaoalbertodosanjosgomes1536

    Жыл бұрын

    I ❤ only God and my family.

  • @branchofthevine779
    @branchofthevine779 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @gojogojo6309
    @gojogojo6309 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @Kaidhicksii
    @Kaidhicksii Жыл бұрын

    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?

  • @trevorn9381

    @trevorn9381

    Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @Oneminuteman38
    @Oneminuteman38 Жыл бұрын

    another well documented and educational video

  • @GetDougDimmadomed
    @GetDougDimmadomed Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @ksull72487

    @ksull72487

    10 ай бұрын

    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.

  • @OtherGuy01
    @OtherGuy01 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the awesome history lesson and walk thru.

  • @thereissomecoolstuff
    @thereissomecoolstuff Жыл бұрын

    This was the most comprehensive video about this beautiful ship. I hope they can save her. Great job.

  • @Randomstuffs261
    @Randomstuffs261 Жыл бұрын

    Those 3d animations are amazing! What software did you make them in?

  • @R0ckmans

    @R0ckmans

    Жыл бұрын

    Unreal Engine 5

  • @randomrazr

    @randomrazr

    Жыл бұрын

    @@R0ckmans do u have to be a programme and learn code to do that kind of stuff?

  • @eventhori3on

    @eventhori3on

    Жыл бұрын

    @@randomrazr there are many tutorials on KZread 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

  • @randomrazr

    @randomrazr

    Жыл бұрын

    @@eventhori3on u dont need to learn coding for that kind of work? 1010111

  • @eventhori3on

    @eventhori3on

    Жыл бұрын

    @@randomrazr you can for more advanced scripts but no you don't need coding necessarily.. although it's good to have

  • @annabalsamo9534
    @annabalsamo9534 Жыл бұрын

    Your vlogs are simply the best! Your attention to detail and information makes them so very interesting! More please!

  • @rodriccoslet2166
    @rodriccoslet2166 Жыл бұрын

    I really enjoyed this video! Great job! But I wanted to tell you that that gray Hall China “mug” is actually a bean pot, used for baked beans. If you find an old Hall China catalog, it will show that it is a bean pot rather than a handleless mug.

  • @annelbeab8124

    @annelbeab8124

    Жыл бұрын

    Interesting

  • @whoohaaXL
    @whoohaaXL Жыл бұрын

    Is there any possible way you could do an episode on the S.S. American Star?

  • @matthewcox6615

    @matthewcox6615

    Жыл бұрын

    Same!

  • @richardcline1337
    @richardcline1337 Жыл бұрын

    It is both heartbreaking and disgusting that our government can spend millions of dollars protecting and serving illegal aliens each year but they can't find a way to save and restore one of our greatest legacies. In the early 60's i was on board the SS Simon B. Buckner, a victory ship left over from WWII and being used as a troops transport. One night we were met by what looked like a wall of lights that made our ship look like row boat! It was the SS United States. She was just so big and so beautiful. I have never forgotten that awesome sight. Hopefully a way can be found to bring this grand old lady back to life and to her former glory.

  • @Pheonixco
    @Pheonixco Жыл бұрын

    As always this channel is a underrated gem on KZread appreciate the work put into this!

  • @rodpettet2819
    @rodpettet28194 ай бұрын

    This is by far the best video of the SS United States I've seen. Well done!

  • @outlet6989
    @outlet6989 Жыл бұрын

    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.

  • @1snoopy011
    @1snoopy011 Жыл бұрын

    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!

  • @mikedrop4421
    @mikedrop4421 Жыл бұрын

    The algorithm needs to get on the ball. This is prime content.

  • @ItsAlpacaMan
    @ItsAlpacaMan Жыл бұрын

    Always appreciate the work you put into your videos

  • @TrueSight_333
    @TrueSight_33310 ай бұрын

    Amazing job on this documentary. Probably the best out there - thank you!

  • @AranOCNC
    @AranOCNC Жыл бұрын

    Such commitment to creating smashing content, really shows your love and passion for the topic. Keep smashing it man

  • @charlesbennett7137
    @charlesbennett71376 ай бұрын

    In my youth I took the SS United States in 1957 from New York to Southampton with my family. It was a memorable trip including swimming in the swimming pool. 😅

  • @jeepluv76
    @jeepluv7610 ай бұрын

    Ships from that time period had so much charm and class. Now it's so commercialized the charm is basically non existent. I would love to see this old ship be brought make to her glory days with modern updates to the safety and mechanics.

  • @drummerkev1627
    @drummerkev16272 ай бұрын

    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!

  • @tdecker2937
    @tdecker2937 Жыл бұрын

    This is exceptional! Fantastic content, keep up the good work!

  • @maxandfergus
    @maxandfergus Жыл бұрын

    Wow! Incredible documentary. I've seen filmed tours of the ship but this was so much more. Thank you.

  • @_hench__5251
    @_hench__5251 Жыл бұрын

    Probably my favourite newfound channel. Thanks for the content!

  • @temperanceblalock7514
    @temperanceblalock7514 Жыл бұрын

    My father was on the United States in 1965 on a eastward trip from NYC. He said that he spotted the Duke and Duchess of Windsor several times. Glamorous!

  • @innovationsurvival
    @innovationsurvival Жыл бұрын

    Your video is magnificent. Simply magnificent. Great connection to train travel. Love that you mentioned the fireproofing made it a little visually dull. You have presented this ship in it's best possible light. Incredibly comprehensive within time constraints. Thank you for this exemplary documentary. You have provided everyone with a superb historical account.

  • @kevinbrennan2004
    @kevinbrennan2004 Жыл бұрын

    Outstanding my friend. Congratulations to you and your crew, for presenting one of the finest documentaries you will find on KZread.

  • @agcala9619
    @agcala96196 ай бұрын

    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

  • @panam4974
    @panam49744 ай бұрын

    What a beautifully produced video! Well done, and thank you!

  • @user-sk6iq4jd6m
    @user-sk6iq4jd6m13 күн бұрын

    My family as immigrants sailing on the beautiful SS United States ship, which arrived on Ellis Island on December 1, 1953 as an 11 year old, oldest among my 3 siblings. Unfortunately, we were sea sick most of the 5 1/2days it took the ship to arrive from Le Havre. Most impressive and memorable to me to this day was seeing the Statue of Liberty😀! Have a photo of my parents and us four chiildren sitting at the dining room table as pale from sea sickness. Always been proud to have known that we had sailed on The SS United States. Was sorry when it was put to rest. Thank you for this documentary.

  • @Awsom47Merc
    @Awsom47Merc9 ай бұрын

    * Thankyou for another impeccably researched vid ! You always put so much work into your vids .

  • @jacanderson1277
    @jacanderson12773 ай бұрын

    I actually raided her back in 1988 after 4 long-standing ice teas and had to jump from the upper deck ,avoid the lower two and got stuck in the tidewater mud below Thank gawd for Bobby Watercore ,he came back for me and we all got away ! Gawd it was great to be young & badass back then . Thanks MO & Robin ,couldn't have done it without y'all.

  • @jacanderson1277

    @jacanderson1277

    3 ай бұрын

    Should read Long Island ice teas

  • @theatreorganman
    @theatreorganman6 ай бұрын

    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.

  • @EveryoneSaid...
    @EveryoneSaid...6 ай бұрын

    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...

  • @alanjames7877
    @alanjames7877 Жыл бұрын

    The most impressive video I’ve ever seen about this amazing ocean liner. Thank you!

  • @patrickchapman3947
    @patrickchapman3947 Жыл бұрын

    It's truly an outstanding episode of our n a tons flagship. That is, without a doubt, the best presentation of this ship. Well done. Your prep was again fantastic.