SS United States

The SS United States is a passenger ship in South Philadelphia that offers space for nearly two thousand people distributed across multiple decks. It has been moored at Pier 82 for decades and still shows its tall bow and two characteristic funnels.

Construction of this liner began in the early fifties with government support and it set a speed record for the Atlantic crossing on its first voyage. After nearly two decades of regular service, operations ceased in the late sixties.

The names of many artists and politicians are connected to this liner, as it served as a preferred means of transport for Atlantic crossings during the fifties and sixties. They spent several days aboard in cabins, dining rooms and on promenades that were considered very comfortable at the time.

Visitors can view the ship from the shore of the Delaware River, where its silhouette and size are clearly visible. Access to the pier is open, but boarding the vessel itself is not currently possible.

During its active years, this liner set several speed records and remained the fastest passenger steamer in Atlantic service for decades. Its hull construction used aluminum to an extent that was unusual for ships of this size at the time.