Kampala

The Kampala and her sister ship Karanja (2) were passenger vessels built for British India Steam Navigation Company's India-Africa service in the immediate post-war period. They were designed specifically to carry and cater for both European and Indian passengers, replacing the earlier Karanja (1) and Kenya that had served the route since the 1930s.

Early Predecessors

The first Karanja and Kenya were built in 1930-1931 for the India-Africa service. Karanja (1) was lost during the North African landings in November 1942 while serving as an assault vessel, sharing the fate of many other vessels including the Awatea from New Zealand. The Kenya was later sold to Sitmar Line, renamed Castel Felice, and redirected to Australian immigrant service.

Construction and Service

The Kampala was launched on December 11, 1946, at A. Stephen & Sons, Glasgow, followed by her sister ship Karanja (2) on March 10, 1948. The vessels featured comfortable accommodation including a swimming pool, well-fitted public rooms, modern amenities, and were known for excellent cuisine and efficient service. However, they were not air-conditioned.

The ships operated a regular service from East Africa to India, taking three days to sail from Mombassa, Kenya to Seychelles, followed by a further five days to India. Third class passengers, predominantly Indians returning from Africa, typically slept and cooked on the open deck.

Key Facts

Specification	Details
Built by	A. Stephen & Sons, Glasgow
Gross Tonnage	10,304/10,294
Deadweight	9,400 tons
Length	507 feet (154.5 meters)
Beam	66 feet (20.1 meters)
Draught	27 feet 3 inches (8.3 meters)
Propulsion	Steam SR geared turbines, twin screw
Service Speed	16 knots
Passenger Capacity	60 first class, 180 second class, over 800 third class
Cargo Capacity	392,470 cubic feet bale capacity, 10,468 cubic feet insulated space