Built as Kenya for British India Line's East African service. During war became H.M.S. Keren, Landing Ship Infantry, and assisted at Madagascar and at North African landings (where sister Karanja was lost.) After long lay up was bought 1949 by Alva S.S. Co. and renamed Fairstone. Soon transferred to associated Sitmar, who reconditioned her. As Castel Felice entered service 1952. First used on Australian and W. Indies routes, then on regular service Italy-Brazil-Argentina. In 1954 made several North Atlantic trips, before starting on route Bremerhaven-Suez-Australia-Auckland-Singapore-Colombo-Suez-Naples-Southampton-Bremerhaven. She had open swimming pool. Of cabins, 61 2-berth, 1 3-berth, 132 4-berth, 93 6-berth, 2 7-berth, 13 8-berth, 4 larger.
Built:1930 by Stephen & Sons, Glasgow. Tonnage:12.478 gross.5.210 d.w. Dimensions:493 x 64 ft. Draught: 25 ft. 2 in. Engines: Steam, S.R. geared turbines. Twin screw. Service speed: 17,2 knots. Passengers: 1405 one class. Fully air conditioned. (1961 data)
Photo by Giuseppe de Luyk (Staff Captain) - Master Cap. Stagnaro - Archivio Sergio de Luyk |
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SirJoe48
