Utah Man's $1M Restored Cruise Ship Sinks, Causing Environmental Hazard

After 15 years of renovations, Chris Willson's historic vessel Aurora began sinking, leading to pollution and ownership disputes.

Chris Willson, a technology entrepreneur from Utah, spent over $1 million and 15 years restoring the 293-foot cruise ship Aurora.
Originally built in Germany post-WWII, the ship featured 85 cabins, a swimming pool, and a theater, and was intended to be transformed into a museum.
The ship began sinking in May 2024, leaking diesel fuel and oil into the Delta Waterway, prompting environmental concerns.
The City of Stockton took over the vessel due to unclear ownership, aiming to dispose of the ship amid its hazardous condition.
Willson, who sold the ship in October 2023, expressed deep regret and is now searching for a new land-based project.