Groote Beer

The Groote Beer began life as the Costa Rica Victory, one of 413 Victory ships built in America during World War II. These vessels were designed as an improved version of the Liberty ships, specifically configured for troop transport. After becoming surplus to requirements following the war's end, she would serve a second life as a passenger vessel under both Dutch and Greek ownership.

Construction and Design

Built by Permanente Metals Corporation in Richmond, California, the vessel was launched on June 17, 1944. As a Victory troopship, she featured strengthened hulls and decks, with accommodation for 1,597 troops arranged in bunks between decks. The vessel was equipped with galleys, washrooms, hospital facilities, and modern ventilation and heating systems.

Dutch Service (1947-1963)

In 1947, the Dutch Government purchased three Victory ships, including the Costa Rica Victory, which was renamed Groote Beer after the Great Bear star formation. Her sister ships, the former Cranston Victory and La Grande Victory, became the Zuiderkruis (Southern Cross) and Waterman (Aquarius) respectively. While Groote Beer was managed by the Nederland Line, her sisters were operated by the Royal Rotterdam Lloyd.

The vessel made three voyages to Australia before undergoing a refit. She returned to service in May 1952, operating from Rotterdam to New York and Quebec. Over the next decade, Groote Beer maintained regular service to Australia and New Zealand while also operating on various Atlantic routes. In 1961, she was transferred to Trans Ocean and in 1962 served as floating accommodation in Fremantle during the Commonwealth Games.

Greek Service (1963-1967)

In 1963, Greek shipowner John S. Latsis purchased the vessel, renaming her Marianna IV. She operated between Piraeus and Australian ports until 1965, when her funnel was repainted in Chandris colours. The ship was then employed in student travel across the Atlantic during summer months. Following a collision off the Isle of Wight, she was laid up in Piraeus for repairs. In 1967, she was sold to Yugoslav shipbreaking firm Brodospas in Split for demolition.

Key Facts

Specification	Details
Built	1944
Builder	Permanente, Richmond, California
Gross Tonnage	9,190
Length	455 ft (138.7 m)
Beam	62 ft (18.9 m)
Original Capacity	1,597 troops
Sister Ships	Zuiderkruis, Waterman