Another classic cruise ship has met its end. The former Royal Caribbean vessel, once known as Song of America, has arrived at the Alang Shipbreaking Yard, where it will be dismantled after an impressive four-decade career at sea.
If ships could talk, this one would have tales of luxury, adventure, and countless buffets. But, alas, retirement for a cruise ship isn’t a peaceful beachside villa—it’s a one-way trip to the scrapyard.
A Ship with Many Identities
This isn’t just any cruise ship. This beauty was built in 1982 and spent 15 years sailing for Royal Caribbean before switching hands (and names) more times than a championship boxing belt.
After its Royal Caribbean days as Song of America, the ship went on a globetrotting career under various brands, including:
- Sunbird (for Airtours)
- Louis Olympia (for Louis Cruise Lines)
- Celestyal Olympia (for Celestyal Cruises)
- Bella Fortuna (for an undisclosed owner)
- Fortu (its final name before heading to Alang)
Despite the name changes, one thing stayed the same: this ship carried generations of travelers on unforgettable vacations.
The Final Voyage
After being replaced by the newer and larger Celestyal Discovery, the Celestyal Olympia was sold in early 2024. The new owners, whose identities remain a mystery (cue the dramatic music), renamed the ship Bella Fortuna.
But instead of embarking on new journeys, the ship faced an uncertain future, spending eight months in limbo in the United Arab Emirates.
In May, it docked in Ras Al-Khaimah, near Dubai, possibly hoping for a comeback. However, by early 2025, the fate of the ship was sealed—it was headed to Alang, India, where thousands of ships have met their end.
The Alang Shipbreaking Yard: A Ship’s Final Resting Place
For those unfamiliar with Alang, it’s the place where ships go when their time at sea is up. Located on the coast of India, Alang is one of the world’s largest shipbreaking yards, dismantling everything from cruise ships to cargo vessels.
The process is far from glamorous—massive ships are driven onto the shore, stripped of their valuable materials, and taken apart piece by piece. It’s a necessary part of the shipping industry, ensuring that parts can be recycled and reused. But for cruise lovers, watching an old favorite get scrapped is like watching your childhood theme park get torn down.
A Storied History on the High Seas
The Song of America wasn’t just another cruise ship; it was a pioneer in modern cruising. Built in Finland for Royal Caribbean, it helped define the mega-ship era.
For 15 years, it sailed from U.S. ports, treating passengers to sun-soaked Caribbean vacations. Then, in 1999, it changed hands and became Sunbird, serving the UK market.
By 2012, under Louis Cruises, the ship found a new home in the Eastern Mediterranean, offering short but adventure-packed three- and four-night cruises.
Perhaps one of its most unique gigs was in 2014, when it became a floating hotel for guests attending the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.
Talk about a career full of surprises!
Saying Goodbye to a Legend
Seeing a classic ship like this go to the scrapyard is bittersweet. For those who were lucky enough to sail aboard the Song of America, the memories of deck parties, endless buffets, and breathtaking ocean views will always remain.
Ships may be scrapped, but the experiences they created live on in the hearts of those who sailed on them.
Did You Ever Sail on This Cruise Ship?
If you have memories of sailing on the Song of America, Celestyal Olympia, or any of its other names, we’d love to hear your stories! Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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