Saga Rose
The Saga Rose was a premium cruise ship built in 1965 by Forges et Chantiers de la Mediteranee in France at a cost of $30 million. Originally named Sagafjord, she was renowned for her traditional design and refined cruising experience, particularly catering to passengers over 50 years of age.
Design and Construction
The vessel featured a distinctively traditional profile with clean, rounded lines and a sweeping silhouette. Her livery consisted of a royal blue hull, white superstructure, and buff/yellow colored funnel with blue boot topping amidships. The ship was designed with expansive open decks, numerous sunbathing areas, and intimate spaces that provided privacy for passengers.
Service History
Launched as Sagafjord in October 1965, the vessel was renamed Saga Rose in May 1997. Under Saga Cruises, she operated primarily from Dover and Southampton, flying the Bahamas flag.
Passenger Experience
The Saga Rose was noted for providing a traditional ship experience with spacious interiors and high-quality furnishings. The vessel maintained maritime traditions such as sounding the bell and whistle at noon. Entertainment included string quartets and classical concerts, with particularly popular themed afternoon tea concerts (Chocolate, English, and Viennese). As of 2001, she continued to offer comfortable cruising with an emphasis on extended itineraries and numerous nights at sea.
Key Facts
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gross Tonnage | 24,474 tonnes |
| Length | 619.6 ft (188.88m) |
| Beam | 80.3 ft (24.49m) |
| Draught | 27.0 ft (8.25m) |
| Propulsion | Diesel (20,150 kW) with 2 fixed-pitch propellers |
| Passenger Decks | 7 |
| Total Cabins | 322 |
| Crew | 350 |
| Registry | Bahamas |
| Home Ports | Dover and Southampton |