The history of “America’s Flagship”

The SS United States is a historic ocean liner, making her debut in 1952 and instantly becoming an iconic symbol of post-war innovation. On her maiden voyage, she broke the transatlantic speed record–crossing from New York to Europe in just 3 days. She still holds this record today… 70+ years later! The SS United States was designed with dual purpose: as a luxury liner for passengers and a military transport if duty called.

For nearly two decades, she carried movie stars, presidents, everyday travelers and even the Mona Lisa across the high seas.

By her retirement in 1969, the appeal of ocean liners had dwindled due to the speed and convenience of airline travel. From 1996 to 2025, the SS United States was docked on the Delaware River in Philadelphia–awaiting her next adventure.