Esquilino

The Esquilino was an Italian motor vessel built in 1925 at San Rocco shipyard in Trieste. She was one of four similar vessels that maintained Italy's prestigious Australian service through the challenging years of the Great Depression and World War II.

Construction and Design

The vessel was characterized by its distinctive profile, sharing design features with her sister ships Remo, Romolo, and Viminale. While praised for efficiency and economic operation, these vessels were noted for their somewhat unusual appearance, featuring small funnels that contrasted with extensive upperworks.

Service History

Despite the worldwide depression and collapse of Australian emigrant trade, the Esquilino continued service under Italian government subsidy. Initially, she operated under a joint arrangement between Navigazione Generale Italiana (NGI) and Lloyd Sabaudo. In November 1931, these companies announced their merger to form the Italia Line, effective January 1932. The new entity, officially known as "Italia Flotte Riunite Cosulich-Loyd Sabaudo-N.G.I.," included financial association with the Cosulich Line of Trieste.

In 1936, services were reorganized, and from January 2, 1937, the Esquilino was transferred to Lloyd Triestino operation. She maintained a regular route from Genoa via Suez to Australian ports including Fremantle, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane.

During World War II, the vessel played a role in humanitarian operations, carrying Greek refugees who had fled to Port Said to new lives in Australia.

Key Facts

Specification	Detail
Built	San Rocco, Trieste
Completed	1925
Gross Tonnage	8,657
Propulsion	Twin Screw, Diesel
Passenger Capacity	42 First Class, 190 Third Class
Base Port	Genoa