The First Cruise Ship
Prinzessin Victoria Luise was a German passenger ship of the Hamburg-America Line (HAPAG) of some 4,409 gross register tons (GRT). She is credited with having been the first purpose-built cruise ship. Launched on 29 June 1900, she served with HAPAG until 16 December 1906 after being accidentally grounded off Jamaica.
Our SMS Team
The SMS Team has a combined total of more than 92 years of ship service work experience. They are committed to accomplishing all work in a safe manner and achieving quality workmanship that our client deserves.
President/CEO
At the Helm our President and Owner, Mr. Clinch Ballew. He is a 19-year US Naval Engineering Officer Veteran with a heavy background as a Nuclear Machinist. Since leaving the Navy in 1999 he has continued to work in the Ship Repair Industry. He worked with the Egyptian Navy for 9 years. Three of which as a Mechanical Surveyor and Technical Specification Writer. The other three as the Planning Director of the Egyptian Navy Shipyard. He started his work to the Cruise Line Industry some 6 years ago and started Shipwright Marine Services in 2016. The company has been welcomed into to the Cruise Line Industry with open arms. The company’s success is the result of his dedication to the client and to the Shipwright Team. He along with every member of the team is dedicated to earn the Trust of our clients and provide Reliable service on time and on budget.
Clinch Ballew
President/CEO
At the Helm our President and Owner, Mr. Clinch Ballew. He is a 19-year US Naval Engineering Officer Veteran with a heavy background as a Nuclear Machinist. Since leaving the Navy in 1999 he has continued to work in the Ship Repair Industry. He worked with the Egyptian Navy for 9 years. Three of which as a Mechanical Surveyor and Technical Specification Writer. The other three as the Planning Director of the Egyptian Navy Shipyard. He started his work to the Cruise Line Industry some 6 years ago and started Shipwright Marine Services in 2016. The company has been welcomed into to the Cruise Line Industry with open arms. The company’s success is the result of his dedication to the client and to the Shipwright Team. He along with every member of the team is dedicated to earn the Trust of our clients and provide Reliable service on time and on budget.
Clinch Ballew
Respected by the Staff
The team was overly challenged to adapt to vigorous changes in the ships mooring requirements. The Windlass Brakes were being serviced and had to be back in service daily to avoid additional port charges. The Team completed the job on time and within budget. In a show of appreciation the Captain invited the Team to sit with him and have dinner.
Some of Our Experts
Project Manager
Currently Open
Ayman Gaber
Senior Engineer
(Mechanical & Planning)
Kyle Tyler
Trade Mechanic
Thomas Neiderer
Mechanical Technician
Hammington
Welder
Les Williams
Code Certified Electrician
Neiko
Mechanical Technician
Thomas Henry Hudson
Mechanical Trade Supervisor
Shipwright Marine Services, LLC.
Ship Equipment Repair and Replacement Services
30 Valley Road, Travelers Rest, SC 29690
Office Tel/Fax 864-689-1315
Tel 864-534-4300
