July 23, 2026
We had a very interesting program tonight as Steve McGee, president of the Salisbury-based Chesapeake Shipbuilding, shared very positive information about his company.
Mr. McGee, an engineer and naval architect, joined the company in 2015 and rose to the level of president during a time of great expansion. Chesapeake Shipbuilding’s construction yard is located on 13 acres of level land, with more than 2,000 feet of deepwater bulkhead, along the protected waters of the Wicomico River. It has two construction basins, three level construction/side launch systems, plus a ground transfer system, and various hull fabrication buildings and shops.
Owned by American Cruise Lines, Chesapeake Shipbuilding builds three ships per year that each have a passenger capacity of between 130 and 180 persons. The company employs 327 workers, up from fewer than one hundred five years ago. Additionally there are scores of contract workers.
Using several videos and time lapse photography, we saw how ships are constructed. They were fascinating to watch.
More about the company is at https://www.chesapeakeshipbuilding.com.
And be on the lookout on the morning of September 11 for the newest ship to begin its Wicomico River departure from Salisbury.
Another interesting evening at a Rotary Club of Salisbury meeting.