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TOUR of the S.S. INDEPENDENCE, American Hawaii Cruises, Page 1 by Peter Knego
The view facing aft from the port bridge wing captures the INDEPENDENCE's
twin funnels awash in the late afternoon Hawaiian light. Directly aft of the
bridge, the Solarium, which was added in 1959, now houses six deluxe suites.
The white structure obscuring the second funnel is one of the two elevator
casings added in the 1994 refit. Further down, the Sun Deck level now only
carries two boats along its forward portion. Photo and copyright Peter
Knego 1994.
This view is facing forward from the aft/starboard Boat Deck extension. In
what was formerly a first class area of the ship, these finger-like
extensions encompassed the Sun Deck pool (visible in lower left portion of
photo). The railings of the the afterdecks of both INDY and CONNIE were
distinguished by the inward curves of their support beams. Photo and
copyright Peter Knego 1994.
The 1994 refit saw the construction of a staircase joining the aft portions
of Sun, Kama'aina, and Ohana Decks, improving the ship's passenger flow
significantly. Originally, the lower/aft decks were cabin and tourist class, while the
upper decks were devoted to first class, so there was no need for the stairs
shown in the foreground. In this view facing aft from Sun Deck, the white
structure aft of the pool leads to accommodation on Aloha Deck, just below.
Aside from the small band stand far aft, the Ohana Deck retains its original
look, with emergency docking wings and an auxiliary steering station. Photo
by and copyright Peter Knego 1994.
Complimenting the previous image, this view is facing forward from aft Ohana
Deck, where newly-embarked passengers have gathered to enjoy the INDY's
welcome aboard buffet. The new additions have not spoiled the ship's
striking architectural look, which incorporates a beautiful balance of curves
and angles. Photo and copyright Peter Knego 1994.
Two finite glass-enclosed promenades on Kama'aina Deck were largely unused
during the ship's Hawaiian service until the 1994 refit "opened them up" to
the Kama'aina Lounge, just inboard. Cane furniture and tropical plants add
just the right touch, as seen in this view facing aft along the starboard
side. Photo and copyright Peter Knego 1994.
Shown in a port-facing view, the wheelhouse sports some new equipment in
addition to the beautifully polished brass telegraphs, binnacle, and
steering station. Interestingly, this is a favorite spot for shipboard
weddings. Photo and copyright Peter Knego 1994.
The Surfrider Bar adjoins the Sun Deck pool, and while enclosed, sports an
indoor/outdoor ambiance with its teak decking, full length windows, and
skylights. Although the furnishings and decor have been updated, it still
has a vintage 1950's feel, as seen in this port-facing view. Photo and
copyright Peter Knego 1994.
The 200 seat Kama'aina Lounge is located inboard of the promenades previously
shown. Originally a much more traditional-looking room, it was
"Hawaiianized" and opened up via glass screens during the 1994 refit. New
wooden decking, floral rugs, vivid murals, wicker furniture, and tropical
plants have integrated this space with the ship's island destinations.
Interestingly, the original INDEPENDENCE ceiling fixtures are still in place,
as seen in this view facing aft from starboard. Photo and copyright Peter
Knego 1994.
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