Old ‘Sea Venture’ Sold For Scrap
Things have ended in heartbreak for the “Pacific Princess” cruise ship featured in the hit 1970s and ’80s television programme “Love Boat” and which earlier sailed to Bermuda as the “Sea Venture” [pictured]
Named after Sir George Somers’ flagship which led to the accidental settlement of Bermuda in 1609, the “Sea Venture” and her sister ship “Island Venture” were commissioned by the Norwegian company Flagship Cruises.
Built in 1971 in West Germany for $25 million, “Sea Venture” sailed between Bermuda and US ports for three years. Sold to P&O subsidiary Princess Cruises in 1974, “Sea Venture” was renamed “Pacific Princess” and served in that fleet from 1974-2003.
The 1977-86 ABC sitcom “Love Boat” was set aboard the “Pacific Princess” and followed the romantic and comic tales of passengers and crew aboard the cruise ship.
While other ships in the Pacific Cruises fleet doubled for the “Pacific Princess” in some episodes of the long-running series, most ship-board footage was shot on the former “Sea Venture.”
“Love Boat” opening credits
She then ran for Spanish operator Pullmantur and was renamed “Pacific”. In 2008 she operated for Quail Cruises, still as “Pacific.”
The 1,233 foot vessel was recently sold for 2.5 million euros to Turkish demolition company Cemsan, Italian newspaper “La Repubblica” reported yesterday [Mar. 7].
The ship’s sale came after its owner failed to pay a Genoa, Italy company a six million euros tab for asbestos removal and refurbishment, the newspaper said.
Certainly not the same feelings as the Queen of Bermuda but sad to see one of the last of the good looking ships go just the same.
shame to see her go ,spent many happy days on her ,as crew member ,farewell my princess