Delta Queen Damaged In Hurricane Ida

Although the Delta Queen steamboat did not receive major structural damage from Hurricane Ida, the intense winds did cause some harm.

In a social media post September 15, the Delta Queen Steamboat Company updated followers, saying the floating National Historic Landmark took a direct hit at its mooring in Houma, La., and was subject to winds in excess of 150 mph. for more than an hour.

The hurricane ripped away the waterproofing membrane on the roof, along with several sections of handrail along the stern, the company said. Additionally, several doors were damaged, and about a dozen windows were broken.

“In the process, the shore power connections providing electricity to the Delta Queen were destroyed and the boarding stage heavily damaged. Our security team that rode out the storm did a fantastic job, and we certainly appreciate their efforts. They are still onboard 24/7, even in the heat and these difficult conditions to protect the Queen,” the company said.

The company added that, all things considered, the Delta Queen held up very well, especially when compared to adjacent structures in the area.

“She is a true testimony to the quality craftsmanship of her builders over 90 years ago,” the company said.

The Delta Queen Steamboat Company has engaged marine surveyors to complete a detailed damage assessment and repair plan. It is expected to be ready in several weeks. The most immediate need to address is sealing the vessel’s exterior with a new roof, and the company said it is already working with insurance providers and an installation contractor to install the new roof as soon as possible to prevent any further water damage to the interior.

The company also provided photos on social media taken the weekend of Sept. 11-12 as workers cleared the roof of debris and deployed heavy plastic tarps as a temporary roof covering.

“The owners of the Delta Queen are thankful for all of the concern and outpouring of support from her many fans,” the company said. “We remain 100 percent committed to the long-term preservation of the Delta Queen and are continuing our efforts to resecure the funding necessary for a full renovation and return to service.”