MV Royal Sovereign (1948)
1948 Built.
On 17th July, 1948, there arrived in the Thames from the Clyde a new cross-Channel m.v. ROYAL SOVEREIGN, the third of that famous name on the London river. The new vessel, built by William Denny and Brothers, is intended for the cross-Channel service to Ostend, Calais and Boulogne when circumstances permit. This ROYAL SOVEREIGN has been built to replace the former vessel of the same name that was lost in the second world war, and is the last word in cross-Channel excursion steamers. She will be seen she carries two masts and has a streamline funnel and is painted all white above the water line. The following are the principal particulars:—Length overall 285 ft., breadth moulded 48 ft., mean draft 8 ft. 9 in., trial speed 20.5 knots, gross tons 1,850. Passenger accommodation 1,783. The propelling machinery consists of two sets of 12-cylinder Sulzer engines each developing 2,250 b.h.p. The main deck has two dining saloons seating 96 and 140 diners respectively. The promenade has a smoke room, there is also a sun lounge 145 ft. by 33 ft. and a covered observation lounge 40 ft. in length. With the exception of the main engines everything is electrically operated including windlass, capstans and the steering gear. The ROYAL SOVEREIGN took up her duties on 24th July making her first trip to Margate and Ramsgate from the Tower Pier. Later in the season she ran on to Dover prior to making a cruise along the French Coast.
See Also
Sources of Information
- 'Steamers of the Thames and Medway' by Frank Burtt