Ste. Claire, Historic steam ship in Detroit, United States
The Ste. Claire is a passenger vessel 190 feet long built with a steel hull and wooden superstructure, powered by a triple expansion reciprocating steam engine and Scotch boilers. The ship currently rests at Riverside Marina after a fire in 2018 damaged much of its upper structure and interior wooden details.
Built and launched in 1910, the vessel operated for more than 80 years carrying passengers between Detroit and Boblo Island, serving the amusement park trade throughout much of the 20th century. Service ended in 1991, marking the close of an important era in local maritime commerce.
The vessel carried generations of visitors seeking leisure and entertainment, becoming woven into local memories of weekend trips and summer outings. This role in the region's recreational life continues to shape how people view and value the ship today.
The ship remains docked at Riverside Marina where it can be viewed from the water's edge and nearby areas. Visitors should verify current access conditions before planning a visit, as damage from the 2018 fire has limited which portions of the vessel are open.
The vessel was featured in the blockbuster film Transformers: Age of Extinction, with filmmakers modifying it temporarily to suit production needs. This Hollywood connection adds an unexpected modern chapter to its long story.
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