The SS Andrea Doria, named after the Genoa statesman, was the pride of the Italian Line. This 212-meter-long ocean traveler could accommodate over 1,200 passengers and 560 staff. The ship was designed for luxury,featuring three outdoor pools,unparalleled works of art,and the most modern security systems of its time. Its radar equipment was particularly advanced for the early 1950s.
Photo: Openai dall-E
In January 1953, the ship embarked on its maiden voyage from Genoa to New York. The Atlantic crossing was successful,and the Andrea Doria quickly became a favorite among wealthy passengers,attracting celebrities like Elizabeth taylor and Kim Novak. The ship regularly traveled between Europe and America until its fateful journey on July 17, 1956.
A Fatal Mistake Leads to the Tragedy of the Andrea Doria
On the evening of July 25, as the Andrea Doria approached the Atlantic coast, its radar detected another ship, the MS Stockholm, en route from New York to Gothenburg. Wiht 17 nautical miles separating the vessels, both captains altered course to pass safely.
The critical issue was that the situation was not interpreted identically.
The Andrea Doria was sailing through dense fog, and the Stockholm soon entered the same fog bank. Misinterpreted radar data led to a disastrous divergence: the Swedish ship anticipated passing to port, while the Italian ship chose starboard. When the two ships were only two nautical miles apart, their crews spotted each other visually. By then, it was too late.
The Ship Was Doomed, But Most Passengers Were Saved
At 11:10 p.m., the steel bow of the Stockholm pierced the starboard side of the Andrea Doria. Although the Stockholm sustained notable damage, it remained afloat.
The Italian liner,though,suffered fatal injuries. It listed heavily to starboard, rendering half of its lifeboats unusable.
In the ensuing tragedy, 46 passengers and crew members perished on the Andrea Doria, and five more on the Stockholm.Nearby vessels, including the Stockholm and the French liner Ile de France, immediately responded to the distress call, initiating a rescue operation.Thanks to their efforts, over 1,600 survivors were saved.
This content is for informational purposes only and dose not constitute health, financial, or legal advice.
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