WHAT IS THE SS UNITED STATES?

The SS United States is an historic ocean liner, widely known “America’s Flagship.” She is the fastest passenger ship ever built and the largest ever made in the USA. The SS United States still holds the transatlantic speed record and is the last of America's great 20th century ocean liners. Since the vessel’s launch over 70 years ago, she has served as an enduring iconic symbol of American innovation and engineering might. She is the only ship that bears the name of her namesake nation.

WHY IS THE SS UNITED STATES SO IMPORTANT?

Like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Washington Monument — there’s only one SS United States. The ship was an ambassador of America’s post-war industrial power and a technological marvel. The soaring symbol of grace and grandeur touched the lives of over one million passengers, thousands of crew members, and countless others who were thrilled by her mere presence in New York or Europe flying the Stars and Stripes. Today, this ship remains one of the world’s last surviving examples from a glorious bygone era of seagoing travel. The vessel still holds the transatlantic speed record, achieved on her maiden voyage using only two-thirds of her power. She served as a Naval auxiliary and was packed with top-secret features. It is imperative that we save her for future generations.

HOW DOES THE SS UNITED STATES COMPARE TO THE RMS TITANIC?

The SS United States is the most famous ship that didn’t sink! At nearly 1,000 feet long, the SS United States is more than a hundred feet longer than the ill-fated RMS Titanic, has five more decks.. The SS United States is so large that if you stood her on end, she’d be nearly as tall as New York City’s Chrysler Building or the Comcast Center in Philadelphia. As the fastest ocean liner ever constructed, the SS United States could move almost faster in reverse than the RMS Titanic could travel forward.

HOW FAST WAS THE SS UNITED STATES?

The SS United States’ propellers, fireproof and lightweight materials, double hull, and sleek overall design were part of a top secret Pentagon program to create the world’s fastest and safest ship. The SS United States still holds the transatlantic speed record or “Blue Riband.” Her true performance figures were kept secret for many years, but we know now that on her sea trials she achieved an amazing speed of over 38 knots — about 44 miles per hour. Some maritime historians and former crew members maintain that she could have traveled even faster, so her true top speed may never be known. By comparison, today’s modern cruise ships travel at around 28 miles per hour. The SS United States smashed the transatlantic speed record on her maiden voyage in 1952 using only two-thirds of her power.

WHO BUILT THE SS UNITED STATES AND WHY?

For much of the 19th and 20th centuries, passenger travel across the Atlantic Ocean was dominated by a handful of European merchant shipping lines that competed for the honor of owning the biggest, fastest, and most luxurious ocean liner. The RMS Queen Mary and SS Normandie are two examples of famous liners that transported travelers between New York and the ports of Europe in comfort and style. After World War II, it was America’s turn to demonstrate its ability to compete and dominate the seas. This era brought with it new American prosperity and ingenuity as well as new security threats. The U.S. Government worked in conjunction with United States Lines to develop a “super ship” to be part Cold War weapon and part luxury ocean liner. The top-secret Pentagon project produced the fastest, safest, and most advanced vessel ever constructed — the SS United States. The ship could be quickly converted into a troop carrier able to transport 14,000 military service members for 10,000 miles without refueling, and she could do it faster than any other ship before or since.

WHO DESIGNED THE SS UNITED STATES?

The SS United States was designed by self-taught naval architect and marine engineer William Francis Gibbs. Born in 1886, Gibbs realized a life-long dream of designing the fastest ship in the world after the SS United States concluded her record-breaking maiden voyage in 1952. His firm designed over 60 percent of all of the nation’s heavy armored ships in World War II, some 5,000 vessels in total. Widely regarded as one of the nation’s foremost naval architects, he was deeply attached to his prized creation. Gibbs called the SS United States every day when she was at sea and rarely missed being on hand for the vessel’s docking at her pier in New York. Gibbs’s granddaughter, Susan Gibbs, serves as the SS United States Conservancy’s president.

DID ANY FAMOUS PASSENGERS TRAVEL ON THE SS UNITED STATES?

The SS United States was the ship on which to sail in the 1950s and 1960s, and she carried a very impressive complement of notable passengers on nearly every voyage. These luminaries included Marlon Brando, Coco Chanel, Sean Connery, Gary Cooper, Walter Cronkite, Salvador Dali, Walt Disney, Duke Ellington, Judy Garland, Cary Grant, Charlton Heston, Bob Hope, Marilyn Monroe, Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor, John Wayne, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. The ship also carried four US presidents — Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Clinton.

WHERE IS THE SS UNITED STATES LOCATED NOW?

The SS United States is docked at Pier 82 on Philadelphia’s Delaware River. She arrived in Philadelphia in 1996, transported there by a previous owner who had hoped to return her to service as a seagoing cruise ship.

CAN I VISIT THE SHIP?

Because the vessel is located at a working pier and is subject to Homeland Security regulations, access to the vessel’s pier is highly restricted. Members of the media can be escorted on board if arranged by the Conservancy. Financial supporters of the ship at certain levels can also schedule tours with the Conservancy. Please note that these special donor tours are available only to those ages 18 and above and are subject to certain conditions. The Conservancy will make every effort to accommodate donors' timing preferences in scheduling these ship visits. For more information about these special opportunities, please contact [email protected]. Otherwise, an excellent view of the vessel for the general public can be seen from Columbus Boulevard or from the IKEA cafeteria in Columbus Commons across the street. To pinpoint directions to the vessel using GPS, the following address may be used: 2100 South Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia PA 19148.

WHY ISN'T THE SS UNITED STATES OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?

The SS United States is presently docked at Pier 82 along the Philadelphia waterfront. This pier is an active, working cargo pier and part of a Foreign Trade Zone as designated by the U.S. government. Pier 82 is one of the only local piers that can accommodate the ship which is nearly 1000 feet long. The pier complex is closed to the public and all visitors must comply with security standards set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This significantly limits access to the vessel. Additionally, visitation to the ship requires specialist crew members to be on board for safety and security reasons which come at considerable cost to the Conservancy.

ARE THE SS UNITED STATES’ INTERIORS STILL INTACT?

No. Unfortunately, the vessel’s fittings were all dismantled in the 1980s and 1990s by previous owners of the vessel for financial gain and to remove building materials popular in the 1950s that were later deemed hazardous. While the Conservancy has collected a large number of the vessel’s original fittings and artwork, many items remain in private collections. The Conservancy’s mission includes a restoration of several of the ship’s grand public rooms to their original configuration with both original and replica materials. The Conservancy continues to catalogue the location and ownership of the remaining fittings from the vessel including furniture, artwork, china, and other fixtures.

Is the SS United States still structurally sound?

As a singular engineering achievement designed and built for speed, safety and national security use, the SS United States still retains more than 90 percent of its hull integrity. The ship’s hull was designed similar to battleship specifications and was built to stand the test of time, surpassing today’s cruise ships. The vessel has undergone several structural reviews over the years by top-flight engineering and architectural firms and is in remarkable condition for its age. She is not “rusting away” as has been sometimes reported, but is structurally sound, capable of being moved if necessary, and is ready for redevelopment.

HOW DO I RESEARCH WHETHER ONE OF MY ANCESTORS TRAVELED ON THE SS UNITED STATES?

Over one million passengers traveled on the SS United States, and passenger lists from each voyage were maintained by United States Lines. These documents were scattered after the ship was withdrawn from service, but the Conservancy is currently compiling and digitizing these records for future use, including genealogical research.

WHAT IS THE SS UNITED STATES CONSERVANCY?

As the owners of the SS United States, America’s Flagship, the Conservancy leads the global effort to save this one-of-a-kind piece of American history from being lost forever. The Conservancy, a national nonprofit organization, raises awareness and financial resources for the maintenance, and ultimate reuse of this iconic vessel. The Conservancy's goal is not the restoration of the ship or her return to sea, but rather her redevelopment as a dynamic , stationary, mixed-use destination and museum that celebrates her historic design. The Conservancy’s staff, Board of Directors, and advisors work in tandem with volunteers from across the nation and around the world to ensure that the fastest ocean liner ever to cross the Atlantic endures and inspires for generations to come.

HOW CAN I HELP SAVE THE SS UNITED STATES?

If you would like to become a member of the SS United States Conservancy or support our efforts, please visit www.ssusc.org/donate.

HOW DO MY CONTRIBUTIONS HELP?

Without continued financial support from Conservancy members and donors, the SS United States will be lost forever. By becoming a member, you help the Conservancy continue its efforts to ensure that the SS United States inspires and endures for generations to come. Your donations will enable us to keep the ship safely afloat, expand our educational and outreach programs to inform the public, policymakers, and the media about the history and potential of America’s flagship, and help us launch exciting exhibitions and displays honoring and exploring the SS United States.

HOW CAN MY COMPANY OR ORGANIZATION HELP SAVE THE SS UNITED STATES?

Becoming a Corporate Sponsor of the SS United States Conservancy provides your company or organization with a unique opportunity to help champion the global effort to save the SS United States. Sponsor benefits include national media exposure, naming rights opportunities, special tours, and appreciation events. The cause of America’s Flagship reaches a wide range of audiences in a growing global community of supporters. Show them you care about saving our history and become a sponsor today. If you have any questions about our Corporate Sponsorship Program or would like to receive copies of our Corporate Sponsorship materials, please contact us at [email protected] or call (888) 488-7787. You can also download our Corporate Sponsorship brochure here.

IS MY CONTRIBUTION TAX DEDUCTIBLE?

Yes! As a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all contributions to save America’s Flagship are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.

HOW DOES THE CONSERVANCY SPEND THE FUNDS IT HAS RAISED?

The Conservancy spends approximately 81 cents out of every dollar raised on direct costs related to the SS United States’ upkeep, including dockage, insurance, security, vessel maintenance, and caretaking expenses. The Conservancy’s overhead is very low, and the organization carries out its work with a very small team of part-time staff members and consultants, supported by a large network of volunteers and pro bono advisors. The Conservancy's most recent IRS 990 form can be viewed here.

ARE THE CONSERVANCY’S BOARD MEMBERS AND OFFICERS COMPENSATED?

No. The Conservancy’s management and board of directors receive no compensation for their work on behalf of the SS United States.

WHAT IS THE CONSERVANCY'S VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF THE SHIP AND WHAT IS THE STATUS OF REDEVELOPMENT?

While the Conservancy's first priority is to keep the ship safely afloat, its ultimate goal is seeing the SS United States brought to life as a stationary, mixed-use destination in a major port city that will include a shipboard museum and innovation center operated by the Conservancy. In November 2023 the Conservancy, in partnership with RXR Realty and MCR Hotels announced an exciting redevelopment project. Details are in the section that follows, “Completion of a Commercially Viable Transformative Plan.”

CAN THE CONSERVANCY PAINT THE SHIP OR ITS FUNNELS?

No. The Conservancy has explored painting the vessel and its iconic funnels over the years and has concluded that it is not possible at this time. First, the project is cost prohibitive. Estimates received for the stripping and painting of the exterior of the ship (which is the size of three city blocks) have ranged from $25 million to $40 million. Wrapping the funnels is considerably less expensive, but it is not feasible because it would require puncturing and damaging the funnels for the wrapping to adhere.

Second, is the ship’s current location. Major work cannot be performed on the SS United States because she is berthed at a working cargo pier. Because the vessel cannot be painted at her current location, she would need to be moved to another location, which is not financially feasible.

Third, state and federal environmental regulations would require the ship to be towed to an appropriate facility (likely a drydock) to ensure that the lead-based paint widely used during the ship’s service career would not contaminate the surrounding waterways during the blasting and stripping of the hull. Encapsulating the ship or its funnels to contain potentially harmful material during remediation may be technically possible, but it would be cost prohibitive.

DOES THE CONSERVANCY HAVE A MUSEUM THAT IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?

The Conservancy’s collections are not currently on display for public viewing. The Conservancy continues to expand its permanent collection of SS United States artifacts, historical documents, artwork, and ship fixtures. For more information, click here.

DOES THE CONSERVANCY OFFER EDUCATIONAL AND CURATORIAL PROGRAMS?

The SS United States Conservancy remains deeply committed to honoring the legacy of the SS United States through curatorial and educational programs. Since its founding, the Conservancy has developed and mounted major temporary exhibitions at the Forbes Galleries in New York City and the Independence Seaport Museum in Philadelphia. The Conservancy has also partnered with the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, to develop an exhibition featuring the SS United States artwork of renowned author-illustrator David Macaulay. We have also advised and supported displays at other institutions such as the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of American History and the Peabody Essex Museum. We also produce regular digital exhibitions that explore the ship's cultural and historical significance. Our last two exhibitions were “Advertising the United States: Discovering America's Flagship Through Prints, Posters and Advertisements”; and “Transatlantic Trailblazers: The Women Behind the Art and Engineering of the SS United States”. In 2023 we will launch our new exhibition, “Food Tastes Better at Sea: Dining Aboard the SS United States.”

The Conservancy also maintains the world’s largest collection of SS United States documents, images, artifacts, and other historical materials. We have also conducted an exhaustive preservation inventory of the fixtures and shipboard components remaining aboard the vessel.

WHAT IS THE SS UNITED STATES CENTER FOR DESIGN & DISCOVERY?

In tandem with the SS United States’ redevelopment, the Conservancy is planning an exciting shipboard museum and innovation center as well as the restoration of some of the ship’s most iconic, historically significant features and spaces. The Conservancy’s future SS United States Center for Design and Discovery will explore the SS United States’ emergence as an iconic American achievement and examine broader themes of 20th century post-war society, maritime history, science and technology, and mid-century modern art and design. The Conservancy continues to expand its permanent collection of SS United States artifacts, historical documents, artwork, and ship fixtures. For more information, click here. In the event that the Conservancy is unable to advance the SS United States' redevelopment, we are committed to creating a land-based exhibition that will house the Conservancy's collections and serve as a permanent tribute to America's Flagship.

DOES THE CONSERVANCY RECEIVE ANY GOVERNMENT FUNDING?

No. The SS United States is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but she does not receive state or federal government financing. The Conservancy relies on the generosity of private citizens from across the nation and around the world who want to protect and preserve this unrivaled design and engineering achievement.

WHAT IS THE CURRENT STATUS OF THE SS UNITED STATES’ REDEVELOPMENT?

In November 2023, the SS United States Conservancy announced an exciting plan for the SS United States developed in conjunction with two prominent New York firms, RXR and MCR Hotels. The detailed proposal would repurpose America’s Flagship as a unique, mixed-use destination, including a 1,000-key hotel, numerous food and beverage destinations, event venues and galleries, acres of public green space, and the Conservancy’s long-planned museum and innovation center. The plan is not advancing at this time, however, because a permanent home for the ship is not yet secured.

RXR and MCR have achieved considerable progress. They developed full schematic design drawings, extensive engineering and construction feasibility studies in consultation with U.S. shipyards, a financial analysis to demonstrate the project’s commercial viability, and an assessment of the necessary permitting and regulatory requirements. The project diligence team included Gibbs & Cox, the vessel’s original design firm, Perkins Eastman and HLW architects, and local land use and regulatory counsel. 

DO THE PLANS FOR THE SHIP DEVELOPED BY RXR AND MCR HOTELS SAVE THE SS UNITED STATES?

No. While this progress in reimagining the SS United States as a dynamic commercial destination and world-class museum is exciting, this project can’t advance until we secure a permanent pier for the ship. That is the crucial next step, and it needs to happen fast. The outcome of the Penn Warehousing (PWD) pier litigation in January 2024 was a June 14, 2024, order from the US District Court in Philadelphia that PWD was not entitled to its claim for a unilateral and arbitrary rent increase, but that the pier lease could be terminated at will. The Court deemed the lease terminated as of September 12, 2024, and ordered the SS United States to be removed from her pier by that date. We must find a new temporary location for America’s Flagship immediately, or she will be lost forever.

Aside from efforts to develop the SS United States at a permanent location, the ongoing operational costs of maintaining the ship, including docking fees, insurance, maintenance, and security, are significant. At the core of all of the Conservancy’s fundraising efforts is the need to continuously cover these monthly costs regardless of longer-term plans for America’s Flagship.   

WHAT HAS THE CONSERVANCY DONE TO ADVANCE THE REDEVELOPMENT OF THE SS UNITED STATES SINCE ACQURING THE VESSEL?

In 2011 the Conservancy acquired title to America’s Flagship to save our irreplaceable national treasure from imminent destruction. With the backing of thousands of supporters across the country and in 40 countries, the Conservancy has pursued a range of purposes ranging from returning the SS United States to seagoing service to permanently docking her as the centerpiece of a multipurpose destination attracting visitors from the host port city and around the world. Although returning her to seagoing service was deemed technically challenging and cost prohibitive, the ship’s redevelopment as a permanently docked economic engine for a port city is promising.

Interest in repurposing the SS United States has come from numerous developers and investors over the years, and the Conservancy has engaged in scores of discussions, vetted a considerable number of proposals, and carefully assessed many potential plans. The Conservancy supported two national “request for proposals” and consulted with officials from several port cities.

Due diligence conducted by possible partners and purchasers consumes considerable resources. The Conservancy strives to keep its donors and other supporters informed but has often been unable to publicly disclose redevelopment plans under review due to confidentiality agreements between the parties. Working behind the scenes, however, the Conservancy has continued efforts on multiple fronts without interruption.

The Conservancy reached a significant milestone with the RXR/MCR plan announced in November 2023. Although it cannot be activated until a permanent dock is secured, the thorough and detailed plan clearly establishes the commercial viability of redeveloping the ship today. The plan is adaptable for numerous port cities.

Today the Conservancy’s efforts are focused on securing a permanent home for America’s Flagship, and if needed, an interim berth pending redevelopment. These multi-pronged initiatives include:

- Discussing development with mayors and other local leaders of potential home port cities.

- Engaging with regional port authorities and private dock operators.

-Reaching out to governors and their staffs.

- Meeting with US Senators’ and Congressional members’ staffs.

- Conducting outreach to the President of the United States and various cabinet members.

WHICH CITIES AND LOCATIONS HAVE CONSIDERED HOME PORTING THE SS UNITED STATES?

Over the course of the decade, the Conservancy and its development partners have explored the feasibility of various U.S. host cities for the vessel, including Baltimore, Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Newport News, Norfolk, Philadelphia, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, DC.

WHAT FACTORS MAKE A LOCATION IDEAL FOR A REDEVELOPED SS UNITED STATES?

To develop the SS United States as both a community magnet and travel destination, there must be access to the ship by public transportation, personal and business vehicles, and foot traffic. There must be active demand for hotel rooms, event spaces, and dining and retail outlets. Proximity to other public gathering facilities such as convention halls or open spaces (either existing or suitable for development) would be beneficial.

Any location would require some shoreline, pier, and infrastructure improvements. There will also likely need to be some regulatory variances or modifications. The economic potential of the ship, including the significant job creation and tax revenue — along with the plan’s extensive public green space, a world-class museum, and its climate-resilient development potential — would justify shoreside accommodations made for the vessel to ensure return on investment.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF REDEVELOPMENT PLANS FOR THE SS UNITED STATES CAN’T ADVANCE?

Without a permanent home for the SS United States, we must secure an interim berth where America’s Flagship can be safely maintained by the Conservancy as it has been for more than a decade. An aggressive search is underway for a potential temporary location, and the Conservancy is actively engaging with regional port authorities, federal and state officials, and public and private dock owners.

These efforts are urgent given the alternative scenario: The loss of America’s Flagship. Without a permanent or a temporary berth, the Conservancy would be compelled to pursue “Plan B” options such as the ship’s conversion into an artificial underwater reef or the vessel’s recycling.

WHY DID THE CONSERVANCY PARTNER WITH RXR AND MCR HOTELS TO ADVANCE THE SHIP’S POTENTIAL REDEVELOPMENT?

The Conservancy concluded that RXR and MCR have the expertise, track record, and financial ability to support a project of this size and complexity. The respective firms’ leadership also values the patriotic importance of protecting and restoring America’s Flagship.

WHAT EXACTLY NEEDS TO HAPPEN FOR THE PROPOSED REDEVELOPMENT OF THE SS UNITED STATES TO MOVE FORWARD?

We must secure a new pier to serve as the permanent home for the SS United States. Finding a location has always been a daunting task. But now we have clear and convincing evidence that the ship can be a powerful economic development engine for her home city, create thousands of jobs, generate millions of dollars in revenues, provide acres of new open space, and become an instant destination. Large urban piers are often owned, operated, and controlled by states and municipalities. Advancing this project now requires clear support from key government officials to provide the ship with a home. That is our urgent priority.

IS THE CONSERVANCY IN AN EXCLUSIVE OPTION AGREEMENT WITH RXR AND MCR HOTELS?

The Conservancy’s option agreement with RXR and MCR has expired. The companies have invested substantial resources in the project to date, and now a permanent pier location must be secured before additional development investments can be contemplated.

HOW MUCH MONEY DID RXR AND MCR INVEST IN THE SS UNITED STATES PROJECT TO DATE?

The two firms invested over $6 million in the project to date.

WHAT WILL IT COST TO FULLY REDEVELOP THE SS UNITED STATES?

The plan developed by RXR and MCR is a private sector-funded project relying on minimal public funding. The ship’s complete redevelopment could be in the $450 million range, excluding the cost of the pier infrastructure which will vary depending on the location. The SS United States’ complete redevelopment would include all 550,000 square feet of the ship’s internal space, as well as exterior spaces and a pier-side activation. The ship is three city blocks long and the size of a skyscraper lying on its side.

WHY NOT SIMPLY GIVE THE SHIP A FACELIFT AND PLACE THE FRESHLY PAINTED VESSEL IN A WATERFRONT LOCATION SOMEWHERE?

The SS United States would still need a new home. Even giving the ship a facelift and an exterior paint job would cost between $25 and $40 million, require drydocking, and could not be performed at the ship’s current pier.

WHERE WOULD THE WORK TO REDEVELOP THE SS UNITED STATES BE PERFORMED?

In recent years the Conservancy and its development partners have conducted extensive due diligence on several potential shipyards and joiner firms in the U.S. with the technical ability to accommodate the vessel and carry out the renovation. It is important to note that these assessments are not separate from the overall project plan, but an integral part of it.

WHAT WOULD BE THE COST OF MOVING THE SHIP TO ITS NEW PERMANENT LOCATION?

Moving the SS United States is a complex undertaking. The ship will likely need to be moved to a dry dock before moving to its permanent location. Costs include insurance, inspections, onboard prepping of the vessel, tugs, and crew costs. These costs would be incurred if the ship is moved to a temporary berth as well. For a permanent location, modifications would be necessary at the destination pier, and those costs would need to be finalized by the vessel’s development team when the time comes.

WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP?

We encourage you to become a member of the SS United States Conservancy and join thousands of fellow supporters worldwide in working to save America’s Flagship. The Conservancy is committed to advancing the SS United States’ redevelopment and sharing and celebrating the vessel’s legacy through a future museum and ongoing curatorial and educational programs.  For more information on how to support our work, click here.

We also encourage our supporters to reach out to relevant leaders and local officials in key port cities such as New York, Philadelphia, and Miami to provide the ship with a temporary or permanent location. The ship’s redevelopment plan requires minimal public funding and will provide enormous economic benefits. The project would create thousands of jobs and a world-class destination that would be an economic engine for the host city’s waterfront.

HOW DOES THE CONSERVANCY USE THE DONATIONS RECEIVED FROM ITS SUPPORTERS?

The Conservancy’s operating budget covers funding for the costs associated with owning and maintaining the SS United States, overseeing its curatorial collections and programming, and educating the public about the ship’s historical significance.

In June 2024, following a bench trial in US District Court in Philadelphia, the Court ordered the ship to be removed from Pier 82 no later than September 12, 2024. The Conservancy continued its longstanding search for a new home for the vessel and expanded its budget and fundraising requirements to prepare for the costs associated with moving a 990-foot-long historic ocean liner.

If neither a permanent nor a temporary berth becomes available for the ship, the Conservancy will have no alternative but to consider reefing or recycling the ship. In such a scenario, the budget will be adapted to cover the costs of securing and preserving the ship’s artifacts and collections, preparing the ship for a move, and covering any additional costs associated with the ship’s ultimate disposition. In this scenario, any remaining funds would continue to support the Conservancy’s ongoing mission to preserve the legacy of the SS United States, maintain its curatorial collection and programming, and prepare for a museum-based program to ensure the historical importance of the SS United States and its artifacts are accessible to the public and inspire and endure for future generations.

LEGAL DISPUTE BETWEEN THE SS UNITED STATES CONSERVANCY AND PENN WAREHOUSING

In 2011 the Conservancy and Penn Warehousing executed a “Berthing Services Agreement” for docking the SS United States at Pier 82 in South Philadelphia. Drafted by Penn Warehousing, the agreement had no end date or provisions for rent escalation. In 2021, without warning and outside the terms of the agreement, Penn Warehousing doubled the monthly rent it was charging the Conservancy. The Conservancy continued paying the mutually agreed-upon rent amount. In 2022, Penn Warehousing sued the Conservancy to attempt to collect the arbitrarily increased rent and evict the ship from her berth.

Following a bench trial in US District Court in Philadelphia in early 2024, the judge issued a verdict on June 14, 2024. The Court found the Conservancy was not liable for the arbitrarily increased rent, stating, “[Penn Warehousing’s] unilateral demand for increased dockage fees beginning in August 2021, with 14 days’ notice, finds no support in the Berthing Agreement or contract law. The Conservancy never agreed to pay more than the rate specified in the 2011 written agreement. There is no basis to order the Conservancy to pay more than it bargained for. The Conservancy’s failure to pay at the daily rate of $1,700 does not amount to a breach of the Berthing Agreement or entitle PWD to any damages.”

The order continued, “Pennsylvania state courts have recognized the ‘general rule’ that ‘when a contract provides that one party shall render service to another … but does not specify a definite time or prescribe conditions which determine the duration of the relation, the contract may be terminated by either party at will.’” Consequently, the Court deemed the Berthing Agreement terminated as of September 12, 2024 and ordered the ship to be removed from her pier by that date.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THE SS UNITED STATES?

Short of securing a permanent dock as envisioned under the commercially viable redevelopment plan from RXR and MCR Hotels, a temporary berth must be found for the SS United States immediately. As most suitable docks able to accommodate a ship the size of the SS United States are controlled or operated by government entities such as the Department of Defense or regional port authorities, the Conservancy has launched an urgent effort to seek state and federal assistance in securing a temporary pier for the ship. 

WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THE SS UNITED STATES CONSERVANCY’S CURATORIAL COLLECTION AND PLANNED MUSEUM?

The Conservancy has acquired an extensive collection of artwork and artifacts from the SS United States that heralds the extraordinary and innovative craftsmanship that made the United States a singular achievement. We are continually expanding this collection of art, artifacts, and archival documentation. Ideally, portions of the collection will be featured in rotating exhibitions in a museum aboard a redeveloped SS United States. We will also consider other land-based museum settings to ensure the collection is shared with future generations.

WHAT IS REQUIRED TO RELOCATE THE SHIP, AND WHAT ARE THE COSTS?

Moving the ship even a short distance requires intensive assessments and preparations, multiple approvals, and considerable expense. Depending on the distance of the move, a minimum of $250,000 is estimated for insurance, inspections, onboard preparation of the ship, tugs, crew costs, and any modifications necessary at the destination pier. The Conservancy is actively exploring in-kind contribution of services in addition to an urgent fundraising campaign.

WHAT CAN PEOPLE DO TO HELP?

We encourage you to become a member of the SS United States Conservancy. As a national nonprofit organization, your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by law. By supporting our preservation and educational efforts, you will join thousands of fellow supporters worldwide to save America’s Flagship. We urgently need support as we explore alternative locations for the SS United States and continue planning our future museum.  Donations are welcome — please click here.

We also encourage our supporters to ask relevant officials in major port cities such as New York, Philadelphia, and Miami to provide the ship with a permanent location. Plans for the SS United States’ commercial activation requires minimal public funding and will provide enormous economic benefits. It’s crucial that leaders in these locations become involved in saving America’s Flagship because it means more than saving a unique and iconic symbol of the nation. It means creating thousands of jobs and a world-class destination that will be an economic engine for the host city’s waterfront.

Overview

In November 2023 the Conservancy announced an exciting plan developed in conjunction with two prominent New York firms, RXR and MCR Hotels. The detailed plan would repurpose the SS United States as a unique, mixed-use destination, including a 1,000 key hotel, numerous food and beverage destinations, multiple event venues, acres of public green space, and a world-class museum. RXR and MCR developed full schematic design drawings, extensive engineering and construction feasibility diligence in consultation with U.S. shipyards, a financial analysis to demonstrate the project’s commercial viability, and an assessment of the permitting and regulatory requirements to advance the redevelopment program. The project diligence team included Gibbs & Cox, the vessel’s original design firm, Perkins Eastman and HLW architects, and local land use and regulatory counsel.

Why did the Conservancy partner with RXR Realty and MCR Hotels on this project?

The Conservancy has met with dozens of prospective developers and partners spanning over a decade. We have engaged in detailed planning and consultations with a number of ventures. RXR and MCR have the expertise, the track record, and the financial ability to support a project of this size and complexity. Their leadership has also understood the patriotic responsibility associated with protecting America’s Flagship.

Do the announced plans save the SS United States?

While this progress is immensely exciting, we also need to emphasize that this project can’t advance until we secure a permanent pier for the ship. That is the crucial next step, and it needs to happen fast. The SS United States remains in peril. The outcome of the Penn Warehousing (PWD) pier litigation in January 2024 was a June 14, 2024, order from the US District Court in Philadelphia that PWD was not entitled to its claim for a unilateral and arbitrary rent increase, but that the pier lease could be terminated at will. The Court deemed the lease terminated as of September 12, 2024, and ordered the SS United States to be removed from her pier by that date. We must find a new location for America’s Flagship, or the risk is great that she will be scrapped.

What exactly needs to happen for the proposed development to move forward?

We urgently need to secure a pier to serve as the permanent home for the ship. Finding a location has always been a daunting task. But now we have clear and convincing evidence that the ship can be a powerful economic development engine for her home city, create thousands of jobs, generate millions in revenues, provide acres of new open space, and become an instant destination. Piers are often owned, operated, and controlled by states and municipalities. Advancing this project now requires clear expressions of support from key officials to provide the ship with a home. That is our urgent priority. We cannot expect investors to allocate additional resources to this project unless there is a strong possibility of a permanent location.

Why did RXR/MCR use New York City’s Hudson River for the concept art?

For experienced New York-based developers RXR and MCR, conceptualizing the United States at Pier 76 on the west side of Manhattan was a natural way to address many factors found in other potential home ports, including New York, and confirm commercial viability. Supporters from around the globe also noted the proximity to the Big U’s original home Pier 86, which is only a few blocks north. One of the SS United States’ propellors is in fact displayed at the Pier 76 entrance.

Philadelphia and other cities would also see promise in locations close to transportation and in areas that would help ensure the level of access and foot traffic necessary for success. Many communities deserve green space and access to other amenities, and the ship’s placement would provide an economic magnet for Philadelphia in particular as the nation’s 250th birthday approaches.

Will the project require additional waterfront infrastructure in the host city?

Any location would require some shoreline, pier, and infrastructure improvements. There will also likely need to be some regulatory variances or modifications. The economic potential of the ship, including the significant job creation and tax revenue — along with the extensive green, public space envisaged and the climate-resilient development potential — would justify accommodations made for the vessel and provide substantial return on that investment. Red tape shouldn’t prevent the ship from being saved and finding a home.

Will the RXR/MCR plan result in changes to the structure or look of the ship?

The RXR/MCR plan respects the historic profile of the ship. No major structural modifications of the ship are contemplated that would adversely impact the ship’s design. In fact, RXR’s creative architectural design calls for hotel room “pods” placed along both sides of the ship to restore the historic structural lines once formed by the lifeboats.

Is the Conservancy in an exclusive option agreement with RXR and MCR?

The Conservancy’s option agreement with RXR and MCR has expired. The companies have invested substantial resources to date and now it is incumbent on all parties and supporters to advance the discussion about a pier location before more concrete development investments or additional support for the Conservancy can be contemplated. Demonstrating their ongoing support, RXR and MCR have offered to donate all their feasibility assessments and intellectual property to other potential partners committed to saving and repurposing the United States.

How much money have RXR and MCR invested in the project to date?

The two firms have invested over $6 million in the project to date.

What is the cost of the project?

The plan developed by RXR and MCR that has been unveiled redevelops the ship and the pier as a private sector funded project and minimal public funding. The ship’s complete redevelopment could be in the $450 million range excluding the cost of the pier infrastructure varying depending on the location. The SS United States’ complete redevelopment would include programing all 550,000 square feet of internal space, as well as exterior spaces and a pier-side activation. The ship is three city blocks long and the size of a skyscraper laying on its side.

Have multiple cities and locations considered home porting the SS United States? If so, what are they?

RXR has explored the feasibility of Philadelphia, Boston, Miami, Seattle, and New York as host cities for the vessel.

Why not simply give the ship a facelift and develop it as a tourist attraction somewhere?

She would still need a home. Even giving the ship a facelift and paint job would cost between $25 and $40 million.

Under the proposed development plan, where would the work on the ship itself be done?

RXR and MCR have conducted extensive due diligence on several potential shipyards and joiner firms in the U.S. with the technical ability to accommodate the vessel and carry out the renovation. It’s important to note that these assessments are not separate from the overall project plan, but an integral part of it.

What would be the cost of moving the ship to its new permanent location?

Moving the SS United States is a complex undertaking. The ship will likely need to be moved to a dry-dock before moving to its permanent location. Costs include insurance, inspections, onboard prepping of the vessel, tugs, and crew costs. Modifications necessary at the destination pier would be additional. Those costs would need to be re-evaluated in real time by a developer.

Will the SS United States be evicted from her pier in Philadelphia?

Yes. The outcome of the Penn Warehousing (PWD) pier litigation in January 2024 was a June 14, 2024, order from the US District Court in Philadelphia that the SS United States must be removed from her pier by September 12, 2024. We must find a new location for America’s Flagship, or the risk is great that she will be scrapped.

What will happen if the Conservancy can't find a new home for the ship? 

The Conservancy will be forced to scrap the SS United States. The vessel needs a home. Without that, there will be no other options. America’s Flagship will be lost forever.

What can we do to help?

Now that this inspired plan has been unveiled that demonstrates the SS United States’ commercial potential, it is vital that supporters and the public ask relevant officials in these major port cities to support providing the ship with a permanent location. This plan requires minimal public funding and will provide enormous economic benefits. It is crucial that leaders in these locations become involved in saving America’s Flagship. It’s not just about saving a unique and iconic symbol of the nation. It’s about creating thousands of jobs and a world-class destination that will be an economic engine for the host city’s waterfront.

In addition, you are welcome to become a member of the Conservancy and, through your membership, join thousands of fellow supporters worldwide.