Did you know that in 1945, here in our own Palos Verdes Peninsula backyard, the S.S. Lane Victory served during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War as well as in peace time as part of the merchant fleet? After years of deterioration, she was restored by volunteers of the United States Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II. Now the S.S. Lane Victory is nationally recognized as a historic landmark, and serves as a living museum and memorial to the service of all Merchant Marine sailors and Navy Armed Guardsmen. You can visit the ship which is open daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (admission price is $5.00 per adult and $2.00 per child).
During the summer, there are three “Victory at Sea” special day cruises which depart from San Pedro at 8:30 a.m. During the day there is dancing, and after leaving the breakwater there are tours of the engine room, radio room, wheel house, museums and gift shop. You cruise past Avalon and will learn about all the points of interest along the way. Mid day there will be an all you can eat buffet. Next will be a reenactment of a spy attack along with planes flying outside the ship if weather permits. At the end of the day, tug boats will assist the boat back into the main channel to its berth. A Los Angeles fire boat provides a beautiful water display to welcome you back. This unusual and fun cruise has limited space and is only available July 23, August 27 and September 24th. Tickets are $130 /per adult, $80 for children 15 or younger. For more information on the summer cruise go to www.lanevictory.org/cruise.
The S.S. Lane Victory is located at Berth 94, in San Pedro. For more information call (310) 519-9545
Photo courtesy of S.S. Lane Victory
