An update on Norwegian Cruise Line's website on the explosion aboard the steamship S.S. Norway (formerly S.S. France, and pictured as such on my "Surviving World Steamship" CD-ROM.) It appears that a large steam header gave way inside the boiler; causing a steam explosion which destroyed the boiler and caused major damage in that section of the ship:

It appears that NCL is committed at this time to repairing the ocean liner, rather than converting it to diesel or scrapping it; a surprising development in today's cut throat cruise market.

-James Hefner
Hebrews 10:20a


S.S. Norway Press Release
james1@pernet.net

It is nice to see that they appear to be interested in rebuilding the ship. As far as economics are concerned, it is indeed much more economical for them to put the ship in for repairs than to replace here. Certainly the cost of repairs will be significant but it is much less than what it would cost to construct a new vessel. Furthermore, if a replacement vessel were to be commissioned, it would be more than a year before the vessel would be ready for service. However, repairs to the Norway could likely be completed in three to five months once she is put in for repairs. Also, with a new ship, you lose the name recognition and draw that the older ship had. For example, the RMS Olympic was involved in two serious collisions and put in for major repairs or renovations. While she could have been replaced with newer, smaller liners the White Star recognized the value of her reputation and name recognition. Thus I am not surprised that NCL is leaning towards repairing the liner (technically she still is an ocean liner, NOT a cruise ship).



awalker2002@comcast.net