RMS Mauretania

The second Mauretania was a prestigious Cunard Line passenger vessel built by Cammell Laird and Company in Birkenhead, England. Launched on July 28, 1938, by Lady Bates, wife of Cunard's Chairman, she represented the pinnacle of pre-war passenger ship design with full air conditioning and elegant accommodations for three passenger classes.

Construction and Early Service

Following her launch in 1938, Mauretania completed only two round trips to America before the outbreak of World War II interrupted her intended civilian service.

Wartime Service (1940-1946)

Requisitioned as a troopship in 1940, Mauretania was painted battleship grey and began extensive military transport duties. She operated between Australia, India, and Africa, carrying British, Australian, Indian, and New Zealand troops to the Middle East. During the latter part of the war, she transported U.S. troops to Britain, and after the conflict, helped return British servicemen home from India.

Post-war Service (1947-1965)

Released from government service in September 1946, Mauretania underwent refitting and resumed Cunard sailings in April 1947. She maintained regular Atlantic service and conducted extended cruises from the United States, including several U.S.-Mediterranean sailings. In her final years (1962-1965), she primarily served Mediterranean cruise routes, sporting a distinctive hull painted in three shades of green. The vessel was withdrawn from service at Southampton in November 1965 and subsequently broken up at a shipbreaking yard in Inverkeithing, Scotland during 1965-66.

Key Facts

Specification	Details
Tonnage	35,739 gross / 9,178 deadweight
Dimensions	Length: 772 ft (235.3 m), Breadth: 89 ft (27.1 m), Draught: 30 ft 10 in (9.4 m)
Propulsion	Two sets of Parsons single reduction geared steam turbines
Service Speed	23 knots
Passenger Capacity	470 First Class, 370 Cabin Class, 300 Tourist Class
Crew	600
Notable Features	Fully air conditioned