The End of an Era

I've written before about the struggle to keep the Delta Queen operating. Not only does it appear that Congress won't extend her exemption to regulations against wooden ships, but that the entire line which operated her and other steamships, Majestic America, will be shutting down. This will affect all 8 of their ships, including one already taken over by the US Maritime Administration for non-payment of debt. 5 of the ships will be pulled out of the water and placed in long term storage.

Majestic America is owned by Ambassadors International, which also owns Windstar Cruises luxury line.

The steam vessels have a long history along America's waterways, from the Pacific Northwest to the South along rivers such as the Columbia, Mississippi and Missouri. They were reminders of our history before Interstate Highways, when rivers, lakes and trains handled most of the transportation needs of our country. The disappearance of these magnificent ships, which allowed us a glimpse at live when things were slower and quieter, is a sad note in maritime history.

It is hoped that eventually a buyer for these vessels will be found. However, the economics of them hasn't been strong for many years, and I'm not optimistic here.

All those who loved these vessels, and their history, please hold your memories in your heart, as their time is likely past.