Utah Man Who Bought Cruise Ship on Craigslist Mourns Its ‘Horrible Death’ After Spending 15 Years — and $1M — Trying to Restore It

Utah Man Mourns the Demise of Cruise Ship ‘Aurora’ Purchased on Craigslist

A man from Utah is grieving the loss of a cruise ship he purchased on Craigslist, which he spent over $1 million and 15 years trying to restore. Chris Willson, who sold the vessel in October 2023, expressed deep sadness at the demolition of the ship, known as the ‘Aurora,’ in an interview with CNN Travel. Willson and his partner, Jin Li, embarked on a journey to restore the 293-foot vessel after acquiring it online in 2008.

The ‘Aurora,’ originally named the Wappen von Hamburg, had a rich history as the inspiration behind The Love Boat and featured in the 1963 film From Russia with Love. The ship boasted 85 cabins, a swimming pool, and a theater, reflecting its former glory. However, in May of last year, the U.S. Coast Guard reported that the vessel had begun to sink in Little Potato Slough near Stockton, discharging pollution into the waters.

Following the Coast Guard’s declaration of a “dead ship tow,” the vessel was taken to Mare Island for demolition. Stockton Community Relations Officer, Connie Cochran, confirmed the irreversible fate of the ‘Aurora,’ stating that the ship no longer exists. Willson described the demolition as one of the saddest things he has witnessed in his lifetime, lamenting the loss of 15 years of hard work dedicated to the restoration project.

Reflecting on his decision to sell the ship two years prior, Willson expressed his dedication to the vessel, stating that he would have continued working on it for a lifetime if not for external factors hindering the restoration process. Despite his regrets about the ship’s eventual demise, Willson remains grateful for the time he was able to keep the ‘Aurora’ afloat and safe on the water.

Maritime historian, Peter Knego, described the ship’s demolition as a heart-wrenching sight, highlighting the use of cranes to dismantle the vessel. The destruction process involved grinding up the steel components, representing a poignant and sad end for the once-majestic cruise ship. Contractors involved in the cleanup effort removed hazardous waste and debris from the ship, addressing environmental concerns following its sinking.

While acknowledging the missed opportunities and near-successes in preserving the ‘Aurora,’ Willson shared his disappointment at not being able to salvage the ship as it met its ultimate fate. Despite the challenges and setbacks faced during the restoration journey, Willson expressed gratitude for the experience and the passion shared by the ship’s new owner in trying to save it.

As the ‘Aurora’ now exists only in memories and photographs, the story of Willson’s ambitious restoration project serves as a reminder of the fragility of maritime heritage and the dedication required to preserve historical vessels for future generations. The saga of the ‘Aurora’ stands as a testament to the resilience and passion of individuals like Willson, who strive to breathe new life into neglected ships, keeping their stories alive amidst the waves of time.