If you’re a fan of Deadliest Catch, you’ve probably wondered what happens to those rugged old shipping vessels after they’ve weathered years of punishing Alaskan seas. With the dangers these ships face, it’s no surprise that they eventually have to be retired. But what exactly happens to these iconic boats once they’ve reached the end of their line?
Let’s dive into the options available for those vessels that have seen better days and explore what might happen to your favorite ships from the show.
Scrapping: The Most Common Fate
First and foremost, scrapping is by far the most common route for these old vessels. When a ship is no longer seaworthy, the safest and most practical option is to dismantle it entirely. This involves breaking the ship down into its individual parts and recycling as much material as possible.
Scrapping isn’t just cost-effective; it’s also environmentally conscious. Much of the metal from these old ships can be repurposed and used in everyday items like dishwashers, washing machines, and other household appliances. It’s kind of wild to think that the steel from a boat that braved the Bering Sea might end up in your kitchen!
Source: Getty Images
Interestingly, most scrapping doesn’t happen in the U.S. Many of these ships are sent to countries like Bangladesh, China, India, Pakistan, and Turkey, where the scrapping process is more affordable.
Ship Graveyards and Artificial Reefs
Another option for old vessels is to send them to what’s known as a “ship graveyard.” These are places where old ships are left to deteriorate naturally over time. It might sound a little morbid, but these graveyards serve as a resting place for vessels that can’t be scrapped or repurposed.
In some cases, instead of just letting the ships rust away, they are intentionally sunk to create artificial reefs. Before sinking, any hazardous materials are carefully removed to ensure that the ship doesn’t harm the environment. Once submerged, these ships become a new habitat for marine life, which can be a win-win for both the environment and the preservation of the ship’s legacy.
Abandonment and Tourist Attractions
Some ships end up abandoned on beaches, particularly in Asia. While this might seem like a sad fate, these beached vessels often become tourist attractions. People love exploring old shipwrecks, imagining a pirate-like life, and soaking in the history. Plus, these wrecked ships sometimes catch the eye of Hollywood producers looking for the perfect backdrop for a movie scene.
Source: Getty Images
Buying a Piece of Deadliest Catch History
If you’re a die-hard fan of the show, here’s some exciting news: it’s sometimes possible to purchase one of these old ships! Depending on the condition, some vessels are sold to individuals or companies willing to pay for a piece of maritime history. For example, a Reddit user recently noticed that the F/V North American was up for sale through Dock Street brokers. The asking price? A cool $100,000.
Of course, buying an old ship is just the beginning. Getting it operational again could cost up to $1.5 million, so it’s a big commitment. Most likely, ships like this one will be scrapped and sold for parts rather than fully restored.
The Legacy Lives On
While these ships may no longer sail the treacherous waters of the Bering Sea, their legacy lives on in various forms. Whether they’re scrapped, sunk, abandoned, or even sold to a lucky fan, these vessels continue to capture the imagination of Deadliest Catch viewers long after their final voyage.
So, next time you’re watching the show, remember that those old ships have stories that extend beyond the screen, and who knows? Maybe you could even own a piece of that history someday.
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