Roma (2)

Originally built as a cargo freighter during WWII, this vessel underwent a remarkable transformation to become a prominent passenger liner in the post-war Australian immigrant trade. Under Flotta Lauro ownership, she helped establish the company as a major player in the Mediterranean-Australia service.

Construction and Early Years

Built by Seattle-Tacoma Shipbuilding Corp as the cargo freighter Glacier, the vessel was launched on September 7, 1942 and completed in February 1943. During World War II, she served as HMS Atheling, operating as an aircraft carrier escort.

Conversion and Flotta Lauro Service

Following World War II, the ship was sold and underwent an extensive refit in Genoa, transforming her into an elegant passenger liner. She emerged as Roma with a distinctive appearance featuring a white hull and superstructure, blue funnel, and dark blue boot-topping. Her inaugural voyage from Genoa to Sydney took place in August 1951.

Service History

The Roma initially operated on the Italian-Australian immigrant route, calling at Genoa, Naples, Messina, Port Said, Aden, Fremantle, and Melbourne. From 1953 to 1956, she was reassigned to North American routes. A 1959 refit added air-conditioning to improve passenger comfort. The vessel continued in service until 1966, when she was phased out following Flotta Lauro's acquisition of Oranje and Willem Ruys. She was sold to shipbreakers shortly afterward.

Key Facts

Specification	Details
Gross Tonnage	14,687
Length	492 ft (150 m)
Beam	69 ft (21 m)
Draught	29 ft (18.8 m)
Propulsion	D.R.G steam turbines (9,350 SHP)
Screws	Single
Speed	17 knots
Initial Passenger Capacity	92 first class, 680 tourist class
Final Passenger Capacity	119 first class, 994 tourist class