Welcome to The Classic Liners of Long Ago!

When one thinks of an ocean liner, what comes to mind?  For most, the image of a strong, powerful, black-hulled behemoth with any number of towering funnels comes to mind.  These behemoths traveled across the Atlantic Ocean on the North Atlantic Ferry for lines as diverse as their countries - White Star Line, Cunard Line, Hamburg-America Line, North German Lloyd, French Line, Italian Line, and United States Lines.  The North Atlantic Ferry, which carried people from any number of European ports to more often than not New York City, began in the 1800's, and for the most part, lasted until the late 1960's, when many of the great liners were retired as the jet airplane took over the job from the liners of carrying people and their stuff across the Atlantic.  Now, the only liner still in transatlantic service is the Queen Elizabeth 2.  However, she only sails this route during the summer months, switching to cruises during the winter.

The ships that that are the most interesting are the "superliners" of the twentieth century.  These liners were not built with the slightest hint of profitability in mind, but instead as massive symbols of national pride.  Many of the liners featured here have been claimants to the title of world's largest, or have held the Blue Riband, the award that was bestowed upon the liner that could make the fastest crossing of the Atlantic.

This site showcases liners from varying countries in order of their entry into service.  Each page gives a detailed history of each liner's career, as well as changes in ownership, country of registration, and name.

The Classic Liners of Long Ago © 2000-2007 Nick Works, Inc.