Esperance Bay

The Esperance Bay (1) was one of five "Bay" ships delivered to the Australian Commonwealth Line in 1921-1922, designed for regular monthly service between London and major Australian cities. Built by William Beardmore & Co on the Clyde, she and her sister ship Largs Bay were constructed three feet longer than their three fleet mates built at Barrow-in-Furness.

Initial Service (1922-1928)

Launched on December 15, 1921, and completed in July 1922, the Esperance Bay (1) commenced her inaugural voyage on August 1, 1922. Initially based in London before moving to Southampton, she operated with a distinctive black hull livery that would later change to green.

Aberdeen & Commonwealth Line Era (1928-1933)

Following early operational challenges under Australian Commonwealth Line management, ownership transferred to the Kylsant group in 1928. The vessel operated under the reorganized Aberdeen & Commonwealth Line, managed by White Star and George Thompson Co. During this period, she received her memorable deep green hull livery and was fitted with module prefabricated cabins in her upper hold spaces.

Shaw Savill and Albion Service

After the Kylsant group's financial collapse and a period of suspended operations, the vessel was transferred to Shaw Savill and Albion Company's fleet. Renamed Arawa (3) to replace the aging Ionic (2), she served the Panama route for 19 years.

Key Facts

Specification	Details
Gross Tonnage	13,835
Length	552 ft (167.3 m)
Beam	68 ft (20.7 m)
Draught	33 ft (10 m)
Propulsion	D.R.G. Parsons Stead turbines (9000 SHP)
Speed	15 knots
Passenger Capacity	Initially 12 first/710 third class; later 550 tourist
Crew	215