description SS American Star Overview
SS American Star was an American ocean liner originally launched in 1939 as SS America. After decades of service and several changes of ownership, the vessel was being towed to Thailand for use as a floating hotel when it ran aground off Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands on January 17, 1994. The ship subsequently broke apart on the beach, and its wreck gradually deteriorated over the following years until little remained visible.
help SS American Star FAQ
What was the SS American Star before it became a shipwreck?
The ship was launched in 1939 as SS America for United States Lines. It served as an ocean liner before passing through several owners and names.
When did the SS American Star run aground?
The vessel ran aground off Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands in January 1994. It was being towed to Thailand, where it was intended to become a floating hotel.
Where can the wreck of the American Star be found?
The wreck lies on the exposed coast of Fuerteventura near Playa de Garcey. Atlantic surf gradually broke the stranded liner apart, and little of the original ship remains visible today.
Why did the SS American Star become stranded?
The tow encountered severe weather and the tow connection failed during the voyage to Thailand. The drifting liner was carried toward Fuerteventura and grounded on the island's western coast.
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