Roma
The SS Roma was one of two ships which were previously Auxiliary Aircraft Carriers prior to being repurposed for migrant transportation. The SS Roma was originally known as “Glacier” before being commission by the Royal Navy on July 31, 1943 and renamed as the “HMS Atheling”. Both ships were then transferred under the “Lend Lease Agreement” to the British Royal Navy and were completely redesigned and were built to become escort aircraft carriers. After a successful tour of duty, both the HMS Fencer (SS Sydney) and the HMS Atheling were both returned to the US Navy in December 1946. Eventually, both ships were purchased by Lauro Lines and were rebuilt in Genoa, Italy as modern passenger liners and were renamed the SS Sydney and the SS Roma. Over the years, they transported migrants from Europe to Australia. The Roma departed on her maiden voyage from Genoa to Australia in August 1951, arriving in Fremantle on October 1, continuing to Melbourne and arriving in Sydney on the 17th. She then went north to Brisbane before returning home. In 1960, she was modified to carry more passengers. Upon arriving to Australia, she had a total of 1113 passengers, with 119 First class and 994 Tourist Class. She also had a crew of 276 members . Her main duties to Australia were between 1951 continued until 1964 when her service was taken over by the Surriento.
In 1966, both Roma and Sydney were redeployed to the Naples, LaGuaira service. However, one year later, due to poor loadings the Roma was sold to the breakers and was broken up at Savona in 1967.
Please visit this site to see an old brochure and interior pictures of the Roma and Sydney:
http://www.ssmaritime.com/roma-sydney2.htm
In 1966, both Roma and Sydney were redeployed to the Naples, LaGuaira service. However, one year later, due to poor loadings the Roma was sold to the breakers and was broken up at Savona in 1967.
Please visit this site to see an old brochure and interior pictures of the Roma and Sydney:
http://www.ssmaritime.com/roma-sydney2.htm
The three photos below are of my Mother and Father arriving at Port Melbourne on the Roma on the 21st of June, 1961.
My Mother and Father.
An original 'Flotta Lauro' souvenir plate featuring the SS Roma and its sister ship the SS Sydney. The plate design is based on a 1950s artistic impression of the ships also available in postcard format. I suspect this plate may have been a possible onboard souvenir for passengers. From my private collection with kindest thanks to Terry and Noi.
An original 'Flotta Lauro' T/N Sydney and T/N Roma postcard. From my private collection with kindest thanks to Terry and Noi.
An original official correspondence letter between Achille Lauro and Flotta Lauro regarding train ticket arrangements for a passenger of the T/N Roma. From my private collection with kindest thanks to Terry and Noi.
An original boarding ticket from a passenger of the T/N Roma dated 14/7/1958. From my private collection with kindest thanks to Terry and Noi.
An original Passage Ticket pamphlet complete with conditions written in Italian dated 1958. From my private collection with kindest thanks to Terry and Noi.