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ss Emerald Seas

Some Notable Early Cruise Ships from Miami

ss Ariadne  ss Bahama Star  mv Bilu  ms Boheme  ss Emerald Seas  ss Evangeline  ts Flavia  ss Florida  mv Freeport  ss Jerusalem  tss Mardi Gras  mv Nili  ms Song of Norway  ms Starward  ms Sunward  ss Yarmouth 

24,458 tons; length 622 ft., width 75 ft, draft 26 ft., 20 knots; 399 cabins; 960 passengers; steam turbines, twin screw; built 1944, scrapped 2004

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ss Emerald Seas
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Beginning its career as the navy transport General W.P. Richardson, this long-serving liner passed into temporary deployment with American Export Lines as the passenger liner La Guardia, connecting New York and Western Mediterranean ports. Replaced by the new twins Constitution and Independence in 1951, it was sold to Hawaiian Steamship Company as Leilani in 1955 for an unsuccessful California to Hawaii service. Bought by American President Lines in 1960 and renamed as the all First class President Roosevelt, it served transpacific and around-the-world routes until the demand for these services declined sharply.

It was sold to Chandris Lines in 1970 and completely rebuilt as the cruise ship Atlantis for New York to Nassau service, again at a loss due to its fuel consumption. In 1972, it was sold to Eastern Steamship Lines of Miami for three and four day Nassau cruises as Emerald Seas. Finally able to operate economically and profitably, it remained in the same service for 20 years.

ss Emerald Seas outside Lanai Suite with two lower beds and sitting room

Public areas included the Mayfair Ballroom, a casino and bar, Aquarius Club, the Rainbow Lounge, a disco and a cinema. There was an outdoor swimming pool, French Cafe and a large dining room. Cabins were spread across seven decks including 109 deluxe lanai suites and 137 outside and 153 inside staterooms with two lower beds or upper and lower berths, all with private facilities.

Emerald Seas was Eastern Steamship Lines' most successful ship, due to consistent good food, service, entertainment and accommodations.

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