The Great Ship Graveyard: What 2020 Did to Maritime History
Key Moments
Editorial Summary
The creator explores how the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent cruise industry shutdown accelerated the retirement of older vessels. While the growth of cruising had previously extended the service lives of many ships, the pandemic led to more retirements in a single year than in recent memory. The video highlights specific notable ships destined for scrap, such as the Karnika, which had a diverse history serving various lines including Princess Cruises and P&O Cruises Australia. The creator also discusses the Astor, a vessel that developed a loyal following under CMV before being sold for scrap in Turkey following the company's collapse. Additionally, the video addresses concerns regarding the future of the Astoria and Marco Polo, two of the oldest ships currently afloat. While these classic ocean liners face potential scrapping, the creator notes some positive developments, such as Seajets acquiring certain former CMV vessels to join their growing fleet. The discussion concludes by acknowledging that while many favorite older ships are reaching the end of their service, some are finding new operators.
Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.
How This Review Compares
This review is more critical than the all-time creator consensus.
Source: Our analysis of the creator's lived experience, based on what they said in this video.
Creator's Key Takeaways
The COVID pandemic of 2020 and the subsequent cruise shutdown has led to more cruise ships being retired in this year than in any single year in recent memory.
Karnika has had an interesting career. Designed by the famous architect Renzo Piano for Sitmar Cruise Line, the dolphin-shape inspired design was transferred to Princess Cruises after its parent company P&O purchased Sitmar in the 1980s.
The Astor is another popular and much loved cruise ship that's destined for the scrapyard.
It is suspected by many that both Marco Polo and Astoria will meet their fate at a scrapyard in the coming months.
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