Canberra (II)
The Canberra (II) was one of P&O's most beloved vessels and the largest passenger liner built for the Australia/New Zealand/England route. Launched in 1960, she exemplified maritime architectural elegance with her streamlined superstructure, flared bow, and rounded stern. Her name, meaning "meeting place" in Aboriginal language, was reflected in her Australian-themed interior décor.
Construction and Design
Built by Harland & Wolf in Belfast, the Canberra's keel was laid in September 1957. Dame Pattie Menzies, D.B.E., launched her on March 16, 1960, at a cost exceeding £15,000,000. Her delivery was delayed due to balance issues, as her stern sat lower than calculated, requiring modifications that increased her draught from 33 to 35.5 feet, limiting her ports of call. The vessel featured innovative side loaders and conveyors, eliminating the need for traditional deck cranes and derricks.
Early Service (1961-1973)
Canberra commenced her inaugural voyage from Southampton on June 2, 1961. Initially competing with Orient Lines' Oriana (later acquired by P&O), she operated with two-class accommodation: 596 first class and 1,616 tourist class passengers. In 1963, an electrical fire near Malta disrupted service, with passengers either flown to their destinations or transferred to other P&O vessels.
Conversion and Cruising Years (1974-1981)
The vessel was converted to single-class accommodation for 1,750 passengers and redirected to Mediterranean cruises. Between 1974 and 1982, she conducted three-month world cruises. In mid-1981, Canberra was repositioned to Sydney for Pacific cruises.
Falklands War Service (1982)
Unexpectedly requisitioned for the Falklands conflict, Canberra underwent modifications before departing Southampton with over 2,000 military personnel. During her war service, she transported prisoners of war to Puerto Madryn, Argentina, earning the nickname "Great White Whale" from Argentine pilots. After covering 30,000 miles, she returned to a hero's welcome in Southampton. Following a complete renovation in King George V dry dock, she resumed commercial service, returning triumphantly to Sydney on December 21, 1982.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Gross Tonnage | 45,733 tons |
| Length | 818 ft (249.3 m) |
| Beam | 102 ft (31 m) |
| Draught | 35 ft 5 in (10.8 m) |
| Power | Turbo-electric & steam turbines (85,000 SHP) |
| Propulsion | Twin screws plus bow & stern thrusters |
| Speed | 26.5 knots |
| Passenger Capacity | Initially 2,212 (two-class), later 1,750 (one-class) |
| Crew | 960 |
| Registry | Southampton, UK |