The late 1960s saw some changes to the Big U’s service schedule. To expand her appeal as the Jet Age dawned, the SS United States began holiday cruises in the Caribbean over Christmas and New Year’s. It was on one such cruise that Ian “David” Lipsky of Corte Madera, California, formed a lasting connection with America’s Flagship.

David, along with his parents and sister, enjoyed holiday cruises on the SS United States in 1966, 1967, and 1968. The family was booked for the 1969 trip as well, and they were devastated when the ship was laid up that November and their yearly tradition would be no more.

In recent correspondence with the Conservancy, David shared his most vivid memories of his time aboard.

While David was only 8, 9, and 10 years old when he traveled on the Big U, he vividly remembers the grandeur of the interiors and the formality of the dining room. Even though the meals for children were fairly basic, he appreciated the elegance of the space, and also recalls the “Midnight Buffets” on the Promenade Deck.

One of David’s strongest memories is of a tour of the engineering spaces. The Chief Engineer was from the same town in New Jersey as David’s family, and he gave them a special, private tour.  According to David, “That engine room was meticulous. I sailed professionally as an engineer, and nothing compared to the cleanliness of the Big U’s engine rooms.” 

Interactions with the ship’s crew are also remembered fondly. Because David’s parents sailed on five consecutive holiday cruises, they were remembered and “given those extra touches that made these experiences feel really special.” These connections carried over after the ship was retired. Chief Steward Joe Muchulsky, and his son Joe Muchulsky, Jr., became personal friends, as well as Captain John Tucker, who lived one town over in Dumont, New Jersey. The Band Director, Bernie Potack, was also a family friend.

David has had the chance to visit the SS United States again since her retirement. He wrote, “Stepping back onboard the ship in Philadelphia in 2013 with Susan Gibbs and my family was a real throwback in time.  Though the interiors are no longer intact, I could see and hear it all, especially seeing the deck names at the foot of the staircases.”

Thank you, David for supporting the SS United States Conservancy and for sharing your story!