The storied SS United States, out of service since 1969, may again sail the seas as a cruise ship, according to NCL CEO Colin Veitch.

The 55-year-old ship, which still holds the transatlantic speed record averaging more than 40 miles an hour on its maiden voyage in 1952, is currently languishing at Pier 82 on the Delaware River in Philadelphia.

But Veitch, in an interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer, said he has rough draft plans to bring the ship back to life, maintaining its classic look while adding a deck or two and modern amenities.

The United States was towed to Philadelphia in 1996 from Turkey, where its asbestos had been removed and its interior completely gutted.

A local real estate developer who had purchased the ship hoped to turn it into a floating hotel or casino, but after he died and his heirs were preparing to sell the ship for scrap, NCL stepped in and bought the United States in 2004.

Veitch said his hope is that after a $500 million reconstruction job, the United States will sail around the world, make trips through the Panama Canal, cruise the Hawaiian Islands and, possibly, make an occasional run on its old transatlantic route.

Because of its history, the ship will command premium fares, Veitch said.