Himalaya
The Himalaya was P&O's first large post-World War II passenger liner, representing the third vessel to carry this name in the company's fleet. Built alongside Orient Line's Orcades, she was designed along similar lines to the pre-war 'Straths' while incorporating numerous modern features for her time.
Construction and Design
Constructed by Vickers-Armstrong Ltd at their Barrow-in-Furness yard, Himalaya was launched on October 5, 1948, by Lady Currie. The vessel was purposely designed with the flexibility to convert to cruise shipping if required. She featured an distinctive appearance with her white hull and superstructure, complemented by a yellow funnel with red boot-topping.
Early Service (1949-1963)
Himalaya commenced her maiden voyage from London to Sydney on October 6, 1949, completing the journey in just 28 days. Initially configured with an unusual arrangement of more first class (758) than tourist class (401) passengers, she proved highly successful on the Australian service. In 1951, she received a Thorneycroft-type funnel to improve exhaust smoke dispersal. A major refit in the Netherlands in 1959 saw the installation of comprehensive air conditioning throughout all public areas and the addition of Denny-Brown stabilizers.
Later Years (1963-1974)
Following the withdrawal of the last 'Strath' liner, Himalaya was converted to all-tourist class configuration with capacity for 1,416 passengers, departing London in this new arrangement on November 21, 1963. During the 1967 Six-Day War closure of the Suez Canal, she maintained services via both the Panama Canal and Cape routes. The vessel operated regular cruises between line voyages, particularly in the Pacific region during her final years.
Himalaya made her final departure from Sydney Harbor on November 28, 1974, bound for the ship-breaking yards in Taiwan. Her departure was notably emotional, with contemporary accounts suggesting "hardly a dry eye on Sydney Harbour" as she departed for the final time.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Gross Tonnage | 27,989 |
| Length | 709 ft (216m) |
| Beam | 91 ft (27.7m) |
| Draught | 31 ft (9.4m) |
| Propulsion | Parsons S. & D.R.G. steam turbines (42,500 SHP) |
| Speed | 22 knots |
| Passenger Capacity | Initially 1,159 (758 first + 401 tourist) Later 1,416 (all tourist) |
| Crew | 634 |
| Cargo Capacity | 449,940 cubic feet |