Reference numberLH000339DescriptionDescription supplied by Mr Skead. Maloja 1923. Owners: Peninsular & Orient S.N. Co.; Builders: Harland & Wolff Ltd, Belfast; Tonnage: Originally 20,837, later 20,914 and 21,036; Dimensions: 600ftx73x48; Engines: Twin screw, quadruple expansion engines; Speed: 16.5 knots. With sister Mooltan, was built for the P. & O. UK-Australia service. Size was limited by the capacity of the Suez canal, and at the time of build were by far the largest P. & O. ships. They carried 327 First and 329 Second class passengers, and owing to their solid comfort and steadiness became very popular with the travelling public. 1923. April 19th, launched. November maiden voyage London-Bombay. 1924. January 18th, first voyage London-Australia. 1929. Fitted with Bauer Wach geared exhaust turbines. Speed increased to 17 knots (maximum 17.25). 1939. On outbreak of WWII was converted to an Armed Merchant Cruiser at Bombay. Mainmast removed and after funnel cut down to half height. At first on patrol duty in Indian Ocean. 1940. On Northern Patrol. Captured German S.S. La Coruna while attempting to run blockade. 1941. Converted to troopship as too vulnerable and slow for A.M.C. work. Carried troops to Suez via the Cape, North African landings, and Sicilian and Italian operations. 1947. Refitted for commercial service. One class Tourist only, accommodation for 1034. After funnel replaced, mainmast not replaced. Tonnage now 21, 036. 1948. June 10th, first post war voyage UK-Australia. Over next six years carried many migrants to Australia. 1954. April, sold for scrapping.Date1923PhotographerLa Tosca Studio Photograph FormatPhotographDigital ItemYes
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