SS United States is a retired ocean liner built between 1950 and 1951 for the United States Lines. She is the largest ocean liner constructed entirely in the United States and the fastest ocean liner to cross the Atlantic in either direction, retaining the Blue Riband for the highest average speed since her maiden voyage in 1952, a title she still holds. She was designed by American naval architect William Francis Gibbs and could be converted into a troopship if required by the Navy in time of war. United States maintained an uninterrupted schedule of transatlantic passenger service until 1969 and was never used for military applications.
SS United States at sea in the 1950s
SS United States colorized promotional B&W photograph. The ship's name and an American flag have been painted in position here as both were missing when this photo was taken during 1952 sea trials.
The funnels became an icon due to their unique shape and size
United States photographed from Portsmouth during her return maiden voyage to New York, summer 1952
An ocean liner is a type of passenger ship primarily used for transportation across seas or oceans. Ocean liners may also carry cargo or mail, and may sometimes be used for other purposes. Only one ocean liner remains in service today.
As of 2024[update], RMS Queen Mary 2 is the only ocean liner still in service
RMS Lusitania arriving in New York in 1907. As the primary means of trans-oceanic voyages for over a century, ocean liners were essential to the transportation needs of national governments, business firms, and the general public.
In 1838, Sirius was the first ship to cross the Atlantic using continuous steam power.
The first voyage of SS Great Western (1838)