Yes, those were the ships. I was on both of them at one time or anopther. I don’t recall ever losing the plant when I was aboard though one time I was asked to fly to Norfolk to help get the one there going again after the lights went out. Surprising given the simplicity of the steam plant.
As far as the Mates go, with the house so-o-o far forward, a miserable ride indeed. Particularly sailing to Northern Europe where I remember more crappy weather than pleasant seas.