Commissaire Ramel
The Commissaire Ramel was a French passenger vessel built for Compagnie des Messageries Maritimes in 1920. She served as an important link between France and Australia during the interwar period, carrying immigrants via the Suez route.
Construction and Early Service
Built by Société Provençale de Construction Navale at La Ciotat, France, the Commissaire Ramel was completed in 1920. The vessel featured the company's characteristic black hull and white superstructure livery.
Immigration Service
Throughout the 1920s, the vessel maintained regular service between France and Australia, playing a crucial role in post-WWI immigration. Notable documented voyages include:
- February 27, 1927: Arrived Port Adelaide under Captain Filhol
- September 25, 1927: Arrived Port Adelaide under Captain Filhol
- April 7, 1928: Arrived Port Adelaide under Captain G. Baudet
- November 8, 1928: Arrived from Marseilles via Port Said under Captain G. Baudet
The ship continued this service through 1929 and made two voyages to Port Adelaide in 1930.
Wartime Service and Loss
In 1940, the Commissaire Ramel was registered in Dunkirk. During World War II, she was intercepted and sunk by the German raider Atlantis in the mid-Indian Ocean. The survivors were held aboard the Atlantis for two months before being transferred to the Durmitor.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Built | 1920 |
| Builder | Soc. Provençale de Cons. Navale, La Ciotat |
| Gross Tonnage | 10,092 |
| Net Tonnage | 5,969 |
| Length | 478.8 feet (145.9 meters) |
| Beam | 59.2 feet (18.0 meters) |
| Draught | 33.4 feet (10.2 meters) |
| Type | Steel Screw Steamer |
| Route | France-Australia via Suez |