Watch Once Upon A Nuclear Ship - Stories of the NS Savannah

Once Upon A Nuclear Ship - Stories of the NS Savannah is a documentary film that was released in 2012. The movie revolves around the story of the NS Savannah, which was the world's first nuclear-powered cargo and passenger ship. The documentary details the history of the ship from its inception, construction, launch, and eventual decommission, and offers an inside look into the world of nuclear-powered ships.

The documentary begins with the background and history of the NS Savannah, which was built in the 1950s by President Eisenhower to showcase the potential uses of nuclear power. The documentary offers a detailed look into the construction of the ship, including the designs and technical details that went into creating the world's first nuclear-powered ship. It also highlights the challenges and risks associated with building and operating a nuclear-powered vessel.

Once the NS Savannah was designed and built, the documentary moves on to the ship's initial launch and its maiden voyage. The ship was launched amid great fanfare, with thousands of people gathered to witness the historic event. The documentary features interviews with people who were present during the launch, including journalists, politicians, and former crew members who worked on the NS Savannah. They share their personal stories and memories of the event, as well as their impressions of the ship and its capabilities.

The subsequent years saw the NS Savannah travelling around the world, including ports such as New York, London, and Cape Town. It carried everything from raw materials to livestock and even passengers. The documentary showcases the ship's versatility and the role it played in shaping the future of shipping. It also highlights the various social and political challenges that the ship faced during its journeys, including protests from those who were opposed to nuclear energy.

As the documentary progresses, it focuses on various aspects of the NS Savannah's technology and design. The film explains how the ship's nuclear power plant worked, as well as the safety measures that were in place to prevent any accidents or leaks. Interviews with engineers and experts offer insight into the technical workings of the ship, providing a deeper understanding of the complex mechanisms that powered the NS Savannah.

One of the most engaging aspects of Once Upon A Nuclear Ship - Stories of the NS Savannah is the personal stories of the people involved in the ship's operation. The documentary features interviews with former crew members who recount their experiences of working on the ship. They talk about the challenges they faced and the camaraderie that developed between them during long voyages. These personal accounts offer a unique perspective on the NS Savannah and provide a glimpse into what it was like to be part of such a historic venture.

Towards the end of the documentary, the focus shifts to the decommissioning of the NS Savannah. The ship was retired in the 1970s, and the documentary covers the reasons behind its decommission, including the high costs of operating and maintaining such a specialised vessel. The film offers a poignant look into the final days of the ship and its impact on those who worked on it.

In conclusion, Once Upon A Nuclear Ship - Stories of the NS Savannah offers a comprehensive and fascinating account of the world's first nuclear-powered cargo and passenger ship. The film strikes a balance between technical detail and personal anecdotes to create a mesmerising account of the ship's history. The documentary is a must-watch for anyone with an interest in shipping, nuclear technology, or history.

Once Upon A Nuclear Ship - Stories of the NS Savannah is a documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 4 minutes.