She triumphantly sailed from New York on her maiden voyage in February 1951. The S/S Independence brought "Modern American Living at Sea" to post-war travelers. Her decor highlighted America's great maritime history. Henry Dreyfuss, noted industrial designer, oversaw the design of the passenger facilities. She sailed proudly for the American Export Line until 1968. Since 1980 she has been sailing around the Hawaiian Islands for American Hawaii Cruises.
On June 30, 2001 the Steamship Historical Society of America and the American Merchant Marine Museum will sail on a special 50th Anniversary cruise, celebrating the great S/S Independence's 50 years of service.
Joining us for this celebration will be two of America's foremost maritime historians and authors, Frank Braynard and Bill Miller. Bill will lecture on the history of the Independence and Constitution and the tradition of the American flag at sea, while Frank will host the cruise.
Besides the ship and company of fellow maritime enthusiasts, our cruise will visit the beautiful islands of Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii with the highlight of spending July 4th in Honolulu with optional tours to Pearl Harbor on this appropriate day. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.
Rates begin at $1480 plus air for an inside stateroom and go to $1902 plus air for a large outside stateroom.
Reservations must be made by October 31, 2000 and final payment is due on March 31, 2001.
Contact John Ferguson, Pauline Power or Denise Bonnici at Pisa Brothers Travel Service (800-786-4164) for more information or to book passage on the cruise.