Located in Northern California, the vessel Aurora, a 1950s-era cruise ship that once served as the inspiration for the popular television show “Love Boat,” is facing a crisis. After being anchored in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta for several years, it has now partially submerged and is leaking fuel.
What lies ahead for the Aurora cruise ship?
To contain the fuel leakage, the Coast Guard has restricted access to the wetlands area and placed a boom around the vessel. The agency stated that the full extent of the environmental impact is uncertain as the ship has descended to the bottom of a 13-foot-deep channel and is partially underwater.
What’s the next course of action?
| “In cases where a ship takes on water, the usual procedure involves patching it up, followed by a gradual pumping-out process that could span weeks or months for completion. Once it’s afloat again, if there isn’t robust financial support, AURORA will likely either be dismantled right there or towed away for breaking,” shared Peter Knego, a Cruise Journalist/Historian, and the proprietor of the MidShipCinema YouTube Channel. |
This 85-cabin ship, initially built in Germany and launched as a cruise liner in 1955, traveled across various regions such as northern Europe, the South Pacific, the Greek Islands, Alaska, and Central America before being retired from active duty in 1977. Notably, Aurora made an appearance in the James Bond film “From Russia With Love.”
Aurora ship boasts a diverse ownership history
Following its retirement, Aurora has undergone several changes in ownership over time and has been repurposed as a shelter for the homeless run by a church and intended to become a luxurious yacht, though these endeavors were short-lived.
In 2008, Chris Willson acquired the ship for $1.2 million after spotting an ad on Craigslist. After a substantial renovation effort spanning multiple years, he eventually sold it last year.
Willson mentioned that the 293-foot-long vessel, featuring multiple sun decks, an Art Deco lounge, and 85 guest cabins, was in a dire state of disrepair when he assumed ownership.
Collaborating with friends and enthusiasts of maritime history, he dedicated years to gradually restoring the interiors and had plans to dock the ship for hull refurbishment once funds became available. The Coast Guard has reported unsuccessful attempts to reach the current owner.
Interestingly, just before the sinking occurred, Peter Knego and filmmaker Robert James were present on site for a filming project. Below, you can glimpse some insights from their visit.