Chusan (3)

The Chusan (3) was one of three significant post-war vessels commissioned by P&O after traditional mail contracts had transferred to airlines. Along with her sisters Himalaya and Arcadia, she represented P&O's adaptation to changing maritime transportation needs in the mid-20th century.

Construction and Design

Built in 1950, the Chusan (3) flew P&O's distinctive house flag featuring blue at the mast, red to the fly, yellow below, and white on high.

Service History

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Chusan (3) played a crucial role in Australian migration, carrying numerous migrants to their new home. The vessel made history by conducting P&O's final Indian passenger sailing in early 1970, marking the end of an era in maritime passenger service to the subcontinent.

Legacy

The Chusan (3) operated during a pivotal transition period for P&O. In 1969, the company began expanding its cruise operations, launching voyages from San Francisco to Alaska to serve the American market. This shift toward cruise operations would lead to P&O's development of purpose-built cruise ships starting in 1972.

Previous Namesake

The first Chusan, a 699-ton vessel, operated the mail run to Australia in 1852. Her significance in maritime history was commemorated with the publication of the "Chusan Waltz" at the time.

Key Facts

Specification	Detail
Built	1950
Operator	P&O
Service Role	Passenger/Migration Vessel