Friedrichshafen, Germany  - The world's biggest airship, the 75-metre-long Zeppelin NT, is on its way to the United States - by ship.

The airship is making the journey across the Atlantic to Beaumont in Texas, its manufacturer said Saturday.

Because of the rigid construction of the craft, it is being transported in its full length. Only the two engines mounted on the side and the tail unit were dismantled for the journey.

The ultimate goal of Zeppelin NT is San Francisco, from where passengers will be able to board the airship for pleasure flights. (dpa)