RMS Oronsay (2)
The Oronsay (2) was the second post-war liner built for the Orient Line as part of their fleet rebuilding program following World War II. Named after an island off the West Coast of Scotland, she was launched on June 30, 1950, by Mrs A.I. Anderson at Vickers Armstrongs Ltd, Barrow-in-Furness.
A fire in the shipyard damaged her forward holds during construction, delaying completion. She was a refined and updated version of the Orcades (3) of 1948, distinguished by different bridge and funnel treatments and the addition of stabilizers.
Construction and Design
The ship's interior, designed by Brian O'Rorke, exemplified post-war British shipbuilding excellence. The Scottish heritage was reflected throughout, with public rooms named Fife, Edinburgh, Drums, and Balmoral. A prominent shield and broadsword adorned her bow. Air conditioning was installed in 1950, an advanced feature for the time.
Early Service (1951-1960)
Oronsay (2) began her maiden voyage on May 16, 1951, under the command of Captain T.L. Sharrock, sailing from London to Sydney. Initially operating from London (later Southampton), she quickly became popular on the England-Australia route. Her substantial cargo capacity of 370,000 cubic feet, with half available for frozen goods, proved advantageous.
In 1954, her route expanded to include Auckland, Honolulu, Vancouver, and the American West Coast, returning to Australia and the UK via Suez.
P&O Years (1960-1973)
In 1960, Orient Line integrated into P&O-Orient Line, with full P&O ownership following in 1962. The ship's livery changed from its original corn-colored hull and white superstructure to all-white with a yellow funnel, and the boot-topping changed from green to red.
A significant incident occurred in 1969 when typhoid fever broke out among crew members between Vancouver and San Francisco, resulting in quarantine in Vancouver with daily food deliveries to the ship.
By 1972, Oronsay (2) was converted to single-class accommodation for 1,400 passengers, focusing on cruising. In 1973, she gained additional fame when David Bowie traveled to Japan aboard her and performed for passengers. The ship was featured on a Fijian 50-cent stamp during this period.
Final Years and Fate
On October 9, 1973, Oronsay (2) was sold to Nan Feng Steel Enterprise Co. of Kaohsiung, Taiwan for scrapping. Her final departure from Sydney took place on September 16, 1975, concluding a 25-year career that included calls at 150 ports, 64 line voyages, and 37 cruises.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Built by | Vickers Armstrongs Ltd, Barrow-in-Furness |
| Gross Tonnage | 28,136 tons |
| Length | 708 feet |
| Beam | 93.5 feet |
| Draught | 31 feet (9.4m) |
| Service Speed | 22.5 knots |
| Passenger Capacity | Initially 668 First Class, 883 Tourist Class; Later 1,400 single class |
| Crew | 608 |
| Construction Cost | £5,200,000 |
| Registration | GCNB (British) |