Australis

Originally built as the America to establish American prominence in transatlantic passenger service, this vessel would serve through World War II before becoming one of the most significant post-war immigrant ships to Australia. Launched just days before World War II began, she would go on to serve multiple roles over a career spanning more than four decades.

Construction and Design

Built by Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co. in Virginia, USA, the vessel was launched on August 31, 1939, by Mrs. Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The ship presented a sleek and dynamic appearance, featuring a flared prow and streamlined superstructure. Her original design included two squat oval-shaped funnels with winged tops, which were later increased in height.

Early Service as America

Completed in July 1940, the vessel began service during wartime, operating to "neutral islands." For protection, she was prominently marked with the American flag and illuminated at night to prevent submarine attacks.

Wartime Service

In 1941, the ship was renamed USS West Point and repainted grey. While en route to Singapore, the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred, marking her entry into full wartime service. During World War II, she independently crossed the oceans, covering over 500,000 nautical miles at an average speed of 24 knots.

Post-War Atlantic Service

After the war, she returned to the United States Line as the America, sporting a black and white livery. She resumed transatlantic service until air travel competition made this route unprofitable.

Chandris Line Years

In 1965, Chandris Line purchased the vessel, renamed her Australis, and performed a complete refit. The ship began immigrant service between Piraeus and Sydney via the Suez Canal, with her maiden voyage in this role beginning August 20, 1965. Her interior reflected modern American design, and she initially wore an all-white livery before changing to a grey hull with white superstructure. The Suez crisis in 1967 forced temporary route alterations. She made her final departure from Sydney on December 17, 1977.

Final Years and Fate

After her Australian service, the vessel was converted into a floating casino by Venture Cruise Line. Following financial difficulties, she was auctioned and repurchased by Chandris for just over one million US dollars. Renamed Italis for Mediterranean cruising, she underwent modifications including removal of the dummy forward funnel. In 1980, she was sold to a West African port with plans to rename her Noga. By 1983, she remained moored at Piraeus before being towed off the Greek coast, where she ran aground and eventually broke in half.

Key Facts

Specification	Details
Length	723 ft (220.3 m)
Beam	93 ft (38.3 m)
Draft	33 ft (10 m)
Gross Tonnage	34,449
Power	Twin steam turbines (34,000 SHP)
Speed	22.5 knots
Passenger Capacity	2,300 (one class)
Crew	700
Passenger Decks	8