#87 NS Savannah

---

1962

World's first nuclear-powered cargo-passenger ship

---

The N.S. Savannah was the first nuclear-powered cargo-passenger ship, built by the New York Shipbuilding Corporation at Camden, New Jersey. The 74 maximum-power thermal megawatt pressurized-water reactor was supplied by the Babcock & Wilcox Company. Nearly 600 feet long with 22,000-tons displacement, the ship at top speed surged along at 24 knots, with more than 22,300 shaft horsepower to a single propeller. A joint venture by the U.S. Maritime Administration and the Atomic Energy Commission to the design of George G. Sharp Inc. of New York, the ship demonstrated the technical feasibility of nuclear propulsion for merchant ships and was not expected to be commercially competitive. Traveling first to major U.S. ports, beginning in 1962, the Savannah made several global voyages. In the fall of 1971, the historic ship was retired.

Landmark Location

US Navy James River Reserve Fleet (Restricted)
Ft. Eustis, VA

Plaque location

On board, in foyer, port side, aft No.2 cargo hold

Visiting Info

Restricted

Ceremony Notes

October 1983

Comments from Visitors/Members

Ship was rebuilt by Bethlehem Steel Shipbuilding Corp. at Sparrows Pt., Maryland