Ravello
The Ravello was an Italian cargo vessel built in 1941 that notably survived World War II intact while serving under government control. She later gained prominence as one of Flotta Lauro's early immigrant ships to Australia, before returning to cargo service.
Construction and Wartime
Built by Cant. Nav. Riuniti in Genoa in 1941, the Ravello was constructed for Flotta Lauro, which at the time operated a fleet of over 50 cargo ships and tankers. When Italy entered World War II in June 1940 on the Axis side, the vessel was immediately placed under Mussolini's government control while still on the slips. Unlike most of the Flotta Lauro fleet, which was devastated during the conflict, the Ravello emerged from the war unscathed and was returned to her owners.
Post-war Conversion
Following the successful conversion of the Napoli (a former British hulk) into an immigrant ship, Flotta Lauro identified an opportunity in the immigrant transport business. The company converted the Ravello by extending her central superstructure aft and adding accommodations for 480 passengers. The conversion included several public rooms and cabins in the superstructure, with large dormitories and ablution blocks installed in the former cargo holds. The accommodations were austere, with segregated quarters for men and women, offering budget-friendly passage to Australia.
Australian Immigration Service
The Ravello commenced her immigrant service with three voyages to Australia:
- First Voyage (1950-51): Departed Genoa in November 1950, arriving in Fremantle on January 4, 1951. She continued to Melbourne (January 15) and Sydney (January 17), before loading cargo at Port Lincoln and departing January 30 for Genoa.
- Second Voyage: April to June 1, 1951, following the same route.
- Final Australian Voyage: August 4 to October 9, 1951, serving the same ports.
Later Service and Fate
With the addition of the Sydney and Roma to Flotta Lauro's fleet, the Ravello was briefly transferred to immigrant services between Italy and Central/South American ports. She was later reconverted to a cargo vessel, serving in this role until being laid up at La Spezia on May 28, 1971, before being sold to local shipbreakers.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Gross Tonnage | 8,452 |
| Length | 473 ft (145.5 m) |
| Beam | 63 ft (19.4 m) |
| Propulsion | Single screw, flat diesel |
| Service Speed | 13 knots |
| Registry | Italian (Genoa) |
| Passenger Capacity | 480 (as immigrant ship) |