Texas Clipper
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
TS Texas Clipper (Ex-USS Queens, Ex-SS Excambion) was a World War II attack troop transport (USS Queens) which was converted into a trans-atlantic cruise ship (SS Excambion) in 1948 and then a merchant marine training ship (TS Texas Clipper) in 1965. The ship served as a training ship for 30 years as part of the Texas Maritime Academy at Texas A&M University Galveston. It was given the name Texas Clipper because the rounded stern was reminiscent of old clipper ships. In 2006, it was transferred to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Artificial Reef Program to be turned into an artificial reef. This transfer saved the ship from being turned into scrap.
The Texas Clipper is currently being prepared to be an artificial reef, docked at the Port of Brownsville for cleaning of hazardous materials and modifications for wildlife and diver safety. The conversion, cleanup and sinking will cost over 4 million dollars. The Texas Clipper is scheduled to be sunk in April of 2007, approximately 17 nautical miles Northeast of South Padre Island, TX. It will be placed in 132 feet of water. The top of the ship will reach depths as shallow as 50 feet.
Careful consideration was used by TPWD during the conversion of the ship into an artificial reef to preserve the ship's appearance. All masts and kingposts that were cut to meet USCG clearance requirements are being secured to the deck of the ship to add interest for divers and increase complexity for wildlife.
The Texas Clipper will be one of the largest vessels serving as an artificial reef off Texas. It is 473 feet long. The V.A. Fogg, off Freeport, is 570 feet long. Twelve WWII Liberty ships are also part of the TPWD Artificial Reef Program. The Liberty ships are 440 feet in length.
