Tech Entrepreneur’s Dream to Restore a Cruise Ship Ends in Heartbreak After $1 Million Investment

Chris Willson, a tech entrepreneur from Utah, embarked on an ambitious project in 2008 when he purchased a historic cruise ship he found on Craigslist. The 293-foot vessel, originally named Wappen von Hamburg and later renamed Aurora, had 85 cabins, a swimming pool, and a theater. Over the next 15 years, Willson poured his life savings into restoring the ship, with dreams of converting it into a museum. However, his passion project ended in disappointment when the ship began sinking in 2023.

Willson and his partner, Jin Li, moved aboard the vessel and spent years painstakingly renovating it, completing significant restorations with the help of volunteers. Despite the progress, the couple faced numerous obstacles, including resistance from local authorities and logistical challenges. The ship, which had been moored in California’s Delta region, became a subject of concern after other nearby vessels sank, increasing scrutiny from officials.

By October 2023, Willson made the difficult decision to sell the Aurora. Unfortunately, just months later, the ship began taking on water due to a hole in its hull, leading to diesel fuel and oil leaks. The situation required intervention from the US Coast Guard, and as of mid-2024, local authorities are determining whether the ship can be salvaged or must be scrapped.

Though devastated by the outcome, Willson looks back on the experience without regret, saying the project extended the ship’s life by 15 years. He remains hopeful that the Aurora may still avoid being scrapped, but for now, his dream of restoring the ship has come to a heartbreaking end.