A Brief Overview of the American Export Line

A Brief Overview of the American Export Line

The American Export Line (later American Export-Isbrandtsen Lines) was one of the most prominent U.S. passenger and cargo lines of the 20th century. It was especially active in transatlantic and Mediterranean service. Below is a list of its notable passenger ships, including the NS Savannah, which was briefly under its management:

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American Export Line Passenger Ships

“Four Aces” (1931–1942 / rebuilt post-WWII)

These were the line’s famous pre-WWII ships, all of which were later rebuilt after the war:

• SS Excalibur

• SS Exochorda

• SS Exeter

• SS Excambion

After World War II, these ships were repurchased and refurbished for passenger/cargo service and retained their names.

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Post-War Flagships (1950s)

The line modernized with two sleek, fully air-conditioned luxury liners:

• SS Independence (1951)

• SS Constitution (1951)

These elegant ships offered luxury service primarily on the New York–Genoa–Naples–Barcelona route and became symbols of American ocean liner prestige.

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NS Savannah (1962)

Though not purpose-built for American Export, NS Savannah — the world’s first nuclear-powered merchant ship — was briefly operated by American Export-Isbrandtsen Lines under a Maritime Administration contract.

• Built: 1959–1962

• Service with American Export: early 1960s

• Role: Demonstrator vessel (cargo/passenger hybrid, very limited commercial use)

• American Export merged with Isbrandtsen Company in the early 1960s, becoming American Export-Isbrandtsen Lines.

• The line declined in the 1970s and ceased passenger operations as jet travel took over.

• The SS Constitution appeared in several films and TV shows, including an iconic episode of I Love Lucy.