[Robert DeLong]

While we’re on the subject of her illustrious background, for a time in the seventies, we came close to losing her because she was incapable of complying with then current safety rules. It took a special Act of Congress to exempt her from those rules, and permit her to remain in operation. She is the only passenger carrying vessel (night boat) today that is so honored. We might also mention that this historic beauty is one of the only, if not THE only, former World War II Navy vessel still in service today.

Click the pic for the source.

[Charles Martel]

I’m happy to see that at least for the moment, it appears that the Delta Queen won’t suffer the same permanent dockside hotel / restaurant fate as her sister ship. Wow, the original boilers... those Scots really knew how to build ‘em.

[tanknetter]

Keep in mind that DQ still doesn’t have her renewed safety exemption. That bill is before Congress right now, and this work is being done under the presumption that it will pass. Which is risky.

As it is, the exemption requires that 10% of her flammable superstructure be replaced every year. At some point we’ll be in a “George Washington’ Axe” situation where she’s more reproduction than original.

However I’m really hoping that she’ll make it to Louisville in April 2016 for a return to the Great Steamboat Race. Will need to plan to come in and plunk myself on Waterfront Park for that!