From the Archives: The end of the Lady Alexandra
In February 1980, a series of storms pounded Southern California. During storm surge and waves on Feb. 19th, the Lady Alexandra, a floating restaurant in Redondo Beach, “developed a 45-degree list and was in danger of capsizing,” according to the Los Angeles Times.
Large waves from storms a week earlier had already forced closure of the Lady Alexandra. The vessel was scuttled to prevent further damage.
Built in 1924, the Lady Alexandra served as a steamship in British Columbia until 1952. It was converted to a restaurant in 1960.
Following the scuttling, the Lady Alexandra was declared a total loss. The vessel was sunk 50 miles offshore, becoming a fishing reef.
This photo by Boris Yaro appeared in the Feb. 20, 1980, Los Angeles Times.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
