Fairsky

Originally built as a C3-type cargo vessel during WWII, this versatile ship served as an aircraft carrier before being transformed into a popular passenger liner. Under Sitmar Line management, she became a crucial link in post-war migration between Britain and Australia.

Construction and Wartime Service

The vessel was built by Western Pipe & Steel Co. in San Francisco in 1941/1942. Originally launched as Steel Artisan, she was completed in December 1941 as the escort carrier USS Barnes, capable of carrying 18 aircraft for North Atlantic operations. She was subsequently loaned to Britain, serving as HMS Attacker for the remainder of World War II.

Postwar Conversion

After being laid up in the USA in late 1945, the ship was purchased by the Vlasov Group, founders of Sitmar Lines. Renamed Castel Forte, she underwent an extensive refit beginning in New York and concluding in Genoa. In June 1958, she emerged as Fairsky, transformed into a modern passenger liner.

Sitmar Service

As Fairsky, she was designed specifically for migrant transport from the UK to Australia, with return journeys carrying fare-paying expatriate passengers. The ship operated successfully until 1970, becoming a familiar sight in Australian and New Zealand waters. In 1967, she conducted numerous cruises from Sydney.

Final Years and Fate

In 1977, Fairsky struck a sunken wreck while departing Jakarta. She was beached on a nearby sandbank to prevent sinking and was temporarily repaired with concrete before proceeding to Singapore. Initially offered for sale, she was purchased for demolition in Hong Kong but received a brief reprieve as a floating hotel and casino in Manila, renamed Philippine Tourist. After being gutted by fire, the vessel was sold to Hong Kong breakers and demolished in 1979.

Key Facts

Specification	Details
Gross Tonnage	12,464
Length	502 ft (153 m)
Beam	69 ft
Draught	25 ft 7 in
Speed	18 knots
Propulsion	Steam D.R. geared turbines, single screw
Passenger Capacity	1,461 (one class)
Cabin Configuration	192 two-berth, 261 four-berth cabins
Facilities	Fully air-conditioned, sun deck cabins, veranda bar, public rooms along boat deck, aft swimming pool, three dining rooms on promenade deck