USS Potomac Returns from Drydocking

The USS Potomac is once again plying the waters of San Francisco Bay after undergoing a maintenance drydocking at Bay Ship and Yacht in Alameda.

BC Staff Report
 
Published: August, 2014
 
The USS Potomac is once again plying the waters of San Francisco Bay after undergoing a maintenance drydocking at Bay Ship and Yacht in Alameda. Long known as the “floating White House,” she served as the presidential yacht for Franklin Delano Roosevelt from 1936 until his death in 1945. Given that her tour of duty spanned the end of the Great Depression and World War II, many monumental decisions were made aboard. 

Potomac’s story did not end there, however, as she was also owned for a time by Elvis Presley.  More than a quarter of a million people have visited and sailed aboard Potomac since she opened to the public in the summer 1995.

Now under management of the Potomac Association, she is under constant care and refurbishment to combat the elements of time. Repairs during her recent drydocking included: above and below water painting; preservation and repair of the valves; checking and maintenance of all mechanical propulsion and steering systems; structural steel repairs to tanks and hatches; and tank painting.

Bay Ship and Yacht expressed its gratitude for its chance to contribute to this fine piece of American history, and was delighted to work with the professional and dedicated members of the Potomac Association. “The Potomac is a wonderfully kept piece of machinery by a dedicated group of docents who are passionate about preserving history,” said Anthony Del Gavio of BSY.

The vessel is available for tours and voyages by the public. For more information and to schedule your visit, contact the Potomac Association at www.usspotomac.org.

All photos by Chris Rochette of Bay Ship and Yacht