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Australis Cruises

Related tours, cruise overview.

The sister ships Stella and Ventus Australis offer an unparalleled cruise experience through the southernmost channels of the continent.

Sail through the Magellan Straits and Beagle Channel observing fjords, bays, glaciers and islands between the Chilean city of Punta Arenas and the Argentine city of Ushuaia. Operating between October and April each year, these cruises take you as far as the mythical Cape Horn, the last headland before crossing to Antarctica. The ships are First class vessels, all cabins are equipped with private facilities and panoramic windows across a number of deck categories. Cruise includes all meals aboard and access to onboard facilities: lounges, library, games rooms and viewing bridge.

Fjords of Tierra del Fuego

Australis Patagonia cruise tours follow the fjords of the southern edge of Tierra del Fuego highlights the stunning, natural beauty of Patagonia and several of its most important historical sites. Whether you are sailing aboard the Australis Cruise, this four-day journey includes visits to wildlife rich Ainsworth Bay, massive Pia Glacier and Glacier Alley, as well as mystical Wulaia Bay and the legendary Cape Horn

Board the M/V Australis cruise ship at 18:00. After a welcoming cocktail reception hosted by the Captain and his crew, the ship will depart for one of the remotest parts of the planet. Our trip will take us through the Strait of Magellan and Beagle Channel to explore one of the most breathtaking wilderness regions in the world: Southern Patagonia, which includes the Tierra del Fuego archipelago.

By dawn the ship is sailing up Admiralty Sound (Seno Almirantazgo), a spectacular offshoot of the Strait of Magellan that stretches nearly halfway across Tierra del Fuego. The snowcapped peaks of Karukinka Natural Park stretch along the north side of the sound, while the south shore is defined by the deep fjords and broad bays of Alberto de Agostini National Park. We go ashore at Ainsworth Bay, which harbors copious bird life and a colony of southern elephant seals which can sometimes be spotted from the Zodiacs. Two guided excursions are available: one is along the edge of a stream, peat bog and beaver habitat to a waterfall-and-moss-covered rock face tucked deep inside a pristine sub-polar forest; the other is a more strenuous hike along the crest of a glacial moraine. Both afford views of Marinelli Glacier and the Darwin Mountains.

Leaving our Ainsworth Bay tour behind, we sail west along the sound to the Tucker Islets. After lunch, we board the Zodiacs again for a close-up view of the Magellan penguins that inhabit the tiny islands. More than 4,000 penguins use Tucker as a place to nest, give birth and nurture their chicks. Many other bird species also frequent the area including king cormorants, oystercatchers, Chilean skuas, kelp geese, dolphin gulls, eagles and even the occasional Andean condor. In September and April — when the penguins live elsewhere — this excursion is replaced by a short walk to a glacier at nearby stunning Brookes Bay.

Overnight we sail around the western end of Tierra del Fuego via the very narrow Gabrial Channel, Magdalena Channel and Cockburn Channel. After rounding the remote Brecknock Peninsula, the Australis cruise tacks eastward and enters the Beagle Channel again. By morning we are entering Pia Fjord and boarding the Zodiacs for a Pia Glacier tour. After disembarking we take a short hike to gain a panoramic view of the spectacular glacier, which extends from the mountaintops down to the sea or a longer much more difficult walk up a lateral moraine of the old Pia Glacier.

No one knows for certain how the hulking mass of snow and ice got its feminine moniker, but one theory says it was named for Princess Maria Pia of Savoy (1847-1911), daughter of the Italian king.

Back onboard the ship, we continue east along the Beagle Channel through an area called Glacier Alley. Living up to its name, the passage features a number of impressive tidewater glaciers flowing down from the Darwin Mountains and Darwin Ice Sheet on the north shore. Most of them named after European countries — Holland, Italy, Germany, Spain and France.

During the morning we cruise across Nassau Bay into the remote archipelago that includes Cape Horn National Park. Weather and sea conditions permitting, we shall go ashore on the windswept island that harbors legendary Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos). Discovered in 1616 by a Dutch maritime expedition — and named after the town of Hoorn in West Friesland — Cape Horn is a sheer 425-meter (1,394-foot) high rocky promontory overlooking the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage. For many years it was the only navigation route between the Pacific and Atlantic, and was often referred to as the “End of the Earth.” The park was declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2005. The Chilean navy maintains a permanent lighthouse on the island, staffed by a lightkeeper and his family, as well as the tiny Stella Maris Chapel and modern Cape Horn Monument.

In the afternoon we navigate the narrow Murray Channel between Navarino and Hoste islands and drop anchor at historic Wulaia Bay, one of the few places in the archipelago where the human history is just as compelling as the natural environment. Originally the site of one of the region’s largest Yámana aboriginal settlements, the bay was described by Charles Darwin and sketched by Captain FitzRoy in the 1830s during their voyages on the HMS Beagle. This area is also renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and dramatic geography. After a visit to the Australis-sponsored museum in the old radio station — which is especially strong on the Yámana people and European missionaries in the area — passengers have a choice of three hikes (of increasing degrees of difficulty) that ascend the heavily wooden mountain behind the bay. On all of these you will be strolling through an enchanted Magellan forest of lengas, coigües, canelos, ferns, and other endemic fauna to reach a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the bay. Before leaving Wulaia Bay, drop something into the wooden mail barrel inside the museum – letters or postcards meant to be hand delivered by future travelers – an ancient mariner tradition revived by Australis.

The following morning we sail into Argentine waters and dock in Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city.

Arrival at 08:30 a.m.

NOTE: The excursions described in the itineraries can usually be carried out without any problems. Nevertheless, the shipowner holds the right to alter, change or skip certain portions of the itinerary without prior notice, whether motivated by the passengers’ well-being and safety, by the appropriate protection of the environment, or in case of any extraordinary event, unforeseeable circumstance or force majeure. For this reason, departures or arrival may be subject to change. Furthermore, sighting of birds and other species cannot be guaranteed as their exact location is variable by nature.

Patagonian Explorer

Explore Patagonia on an adventurous five-day, four-night journeys between Ushuaia (Argentina) to Punta Arenas (Chile) through some of planet’s most remote places and incredible scenery. Discover the wild beauty of Patagonia on an Australis cruise that showcases the region’s pristine landscapes, rich wildlife and fascinating human history aboard an expedition ship that brings an extraordinary level of comfort and service to the uttermost edge of the world. Leaving the twinkling lights of Ushuaia behind, the vessel calls on fabled spots like Cape Horn and Wulaia Bay before cruising down the Beagle Channel. Continuing through the maze of islands, we’ll visit a number of glaciers, frozen giants that guard the southern flank of the Fuegian Archipelago, before entering the legendary Strait of Magellan. Last stop is the Isla Magdalena and its boisterous Patagonia penguin colony before docking at Punta Arenas.

Board the Australis Cruise at 18:00 (6 PM). After a welcoming toast and introduction of captain and crew, the ship departs for one of the most remote corners of planet Earth. During the night we traverse the Beagle Channel and cross from Argentina into Chilean territorial waters. The lights of Ushuaia disappear as we turn into the narrow Murray Channel between Navarino and Hoste islands.

Around the break of dawn, the Australis cruise crosses Nassau Bay and enters the remote archipelago that comprises Cape Horn National Park. Weather and sea conditions permitting, we shall go ashore on the windswept island that harbors legendary Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos). Discovered in 1616 by a Dutch maritime expedition — and named after the town of Hoorn in West Friesland — Cape Horn is a sheer 425-meter (1,394-foot) high rocky promontory overlooking the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage. For many years it was the only navigation route between the Pacific and Atlantic, and was often referred to as the “End of the Earth.” The park was declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2005. The Chilean navy maintains a permanent lighthouse on the island, staffed by a lightkeeper and his family, as well as the tiny Stella Maris Chapel and modern Cape Horn Monument (currently awaiting repair after being damaged by fierce winds).

Sailing back across Nassau Bay, we anchor at fabled Wulaia Bay, one of the few places in the archipelago where the human history is just as compelling as the natural environment. Originally the site of one of the region’s largest Yámana aboriginal settlements, the bay was described by Charles Darwin and sketched by Captain FitzRoy in the 1830s during their voyages on HMS Beagle. This area is also renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and dramatic geography. After a visit to the Australis-sponsored museum in the old radio station — which is especially strong on the Yámana people and European missionaries in the area — passengers have a choice of three hikes (of increasing degrees of difficulty) that ascend the heavily wooded mountain behind the bay. On all of these you stroll through an enchanted Magellanic forest of lengas, coigües, canelos and ferns to reach panoramic viewpoints overlooking the bay.

Overnight we continue our Patagonia glacier tour around the western end of Tierra del Fuego via the very narrow Gabrial Channel, Magdalena Channel and Cockburn Channel. After rounding the remote Brecknock Peninsula, the Australis cruise tacks eastward and enters the Beagle Channel again. By morning we are entering Pia Fjord and boarding the Zodiacs for a shore excursion to Pia Glacier.After disembarking we take a short hike to gain a panoramic view of the spectacular glacier, which extends from the mountaintops down to the sea or a longer much more difficult walk up a lateral moraine of the old Pia Glacier.

Making our way further west along the Beagle Channel, we enter another long fjord and drop anchor near Garibaldi Glacier for another shore excursion. Garibaldi is one of only three glaciers in Patagonia gaining mass rather than staying the same or slowly shrinking. This time we hike through virgin Magellanic forest to a glacial waterfall, a towering wall of ferns and moss, and spectacular viewpoints looking down on the glacier and fjord. The walk is demanding — very steep, negligible trail, rough footing — and not for everyone. For those who choose to stay onboard, our captain will point the bow towards the beautiful sky blue Garibaldi Glacier so everyone can enjoy the panoramic view from the upper decks.

Early in the morning, we will sail through the Cockburn Channel and enter Agostini Sound.  From there it is possible to see the glaciers that descend from the middle of the Darwin Mountain Range — some of them reaching the water. This morning, we will disembark and go for an easy walk around a lagoon, which was formed by the melting of the Águila Glacier.  We will reach a spot right in front of that glacier with stunning views.  In the afternoon, we will approach the Condor Glacier via Zodiac — and hopefully see some of the abundant Andean Condors in the area.

After an overnight cruise through Magdalena Channel and back into the Strait of Magellan, we anchor off Magdalena Island, which lies about halfway between Tierra del Fuego and the Chilean mainland. Crowned by a distinctive lighthouse, the island used to be an essential source of supplies for navigators and explorers and is inhabited by an immense colony of Magellanic penguins. At the break of dawn, weather permitting, we go ashore and hike a path that leads through thousands of penguins to a small museum lodged inside the vintage 1902 lighthouse. Many other bird species are also found on the island. In September and April — when the penguins dwell elsewhere — this excursion is replaced by a ride aboard Zodiacs to Marta Island to observe South American sea lions. After a short cruise south along the strait, disembarkation at Punta Arenas is scheduled for around 11:30 AM.

*Camera extension poles are prohibited on Magdalena Island

Tour Inclusions

• Accommodation
• Sea transportation.
• Open bar when on duty (without additional cost for wines, beverages, and liquors)
• Shore excursions and on board entertainment.

Tour Exclusions

• Any items not listed in the inclusions or mentioned in the itinerary

Tour Pricing

Image gallery.

Patagonian Delights

Ushuaia – Tierra Del Fuego

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AUSTRALIS  

Australian (priority partner)

​During Australis expedition cruises, you will travel through the remote fjords and channels of Patagonia, to pristine bays of Tierra del Fuego, traverse the Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel and reach the fabled island of Cape Horn. As a local Chilean shipping company, Australis has a lot of experience and exclusive access rights to the southernmost national parks, where other ships are not allowed and cannot enter. On board our two expedition ships Stella Australis and Ventus Australis, comfortable cabins and lounges with large panoramic windows are available, which invite you to enjoy every moment of the journey in a special way. Our experienced and attentive crew accompanies you on your journey and offers you not only first-class service, excellent food and drinks, but also exciting excursions, interesting lectures and readings as well as scientific information about our homeland, southern Patagonia!

Stella Australis

Ship category: 4*

Cabins: 100

Passengers: 210

Crew members: 65

​On-board language: English / Spanish

Year of construction: 2010

Passenger decks:

Restaurants:

Barrier-free:

The agile Stella Australis was specially designed for navigating the narrow fjords of Patagonia, which is noticeable in the manageable size, construction and technical equipment of the ship. The Stella Australis was built in 2010 at a shipyard in Valdivia, Chile, and commissioned for Australis. Since then, she has been sailing through the fjords of Patagonia as a modern, safe and comfortable expedition cruise ship, connecting the southernmost port cities of Punta Arenas in Chile with Ushuaia in Argentina.

The Stella Australis (Latin for "southern star") has 100 spacious outside cabins divided into cabin categories B, A, AA and AAA. Four superior cabins are even larger than the standard cabins. All cabins have either queen-size beds or two single beds, a private bathroom and large exterior windows. In the evenings, the interesting presentations of the expedition team take place in the comfortable lounges. Come aboard and experience Chilean hospitality at the southern end of the world!

Ventus australis

​On-board language: Spanish/English

Year of construction: 2018

Ventus Australis, sister ship to Stella Australis, entered service for Australis in January 2018. Specially designed and built for navigating the fjords of Patagonia, the Ventus is a modern and elegant expedition cruise ship. Equipped with 100 outside cabins, large panoramic windows, comfortable lounges and an excellent kitchen, the Ventus leaves nothing to be desired for your guests.

The Ventus Australis (Latin for "southern winds") is an agile and highly manoeuvrable ship that was specially built for navigating the fjords of Patagonia. Commissioned in 2018, she is the newest ship in the Australis fleet. Its modern interior design impresses with lots of light and clear structures, the vintage-style furnishings reflect the Patagonian style and incorporate local elements such as map sections of the fjords. Like the Stella Australis, the Ventus Australis has 100 cabins divided into categories from B, A, AA to AAA. All cabins are equipped with an ensuite bathroom, deluxe bed and oversized exterior windows. Four superior cabins offer travelers even more space than the already generously proportioned standard cabins. Come aboard and experience one of the most modern and enjoyable expedition cruise ships!   

​ Our Patagonia Expedition Cruises follow itineraries along remote fjords and channels to otherwise inaccessible locations. We have access rights to nature reserves that no other shipping company is allowed to access. With local knowledge and a lot of experience, we can offer our guests an exclusive travel experience that is characterized by personal service, small groups and unique shore excursions. All excursions are accompanied by a member of the expedition team, who can provide you with exciting background information and interesting research results on Patagonia's pristine ecosystems. If the weather permits, we even offer a shore leave on the legendary Cape Horn Island - the place at the end of the world where the Atlantic and Pacific meet!

Fiords of Tierra del Fuego Punta Arenas - Ushuaia: 4 nights all inclusive from USD 1590

The fjords of Tierra del Fuego are undoubtedly one of the most impressive travel regions on earth. Explore remote and pristine landscapes, discover breathtaking glaciers, mystical Cape Horn and cruise through the Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel during this Australis expedition cruise. The adventure begins in the Chilean port city of Punta Arenas, where you will board in the early evening, settle into your cabin, familiarize yourself with life on board and get to know the crew and your fellow passengers. Enjoy a drink on deck and watch as the lights of Punta Arenas disappear into the horizon as you cast off. Agostini National Park and picturesque Ainsworth Bay are on the agenda for the next morning. Admire the high mountains of the Cordillera Darwin and the flora and fauna of Tierra del Fuego during our guided excursion. Breathtaking landscapes and views will accompany you throughout the expedition drive: while driving through the glacier avenue, through the narrow fjords and past untouched primeval forests. This impressive route covers the highlights of the Tierra del Fuego fjords and takes you from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia in 5 days/4 nights. Experience unforgettable shore leave and excursions, glaciers, the Magellanic penguins and the mystical Cape Horn Island!

Experience Patagonia Ushuaia-Punta Arenas 4 nights all inclusive from USD 1590.00

The Patagonia Experience expedition cruise takes you in 5 days/4 nights from Ushuaia in Argentina to Punta Arenas in Chile. Experience the pristine fjords of Tierra del Fuego, the remote and secluded bays on the shores of the Beagle Channel, mystical Cape Horn and the historic Strait of Magellan. During our guided expeditions and Zodiac excursions we get to know the flora and fauna as well as the history of Tierra del Fuego and learn interesting information about the impressive glaciers of the Cordillera Darwin. In the historically important Wulaia Bay we walk in the footsteps of the well-known gentlemen Captain Robert Fitzroy and naturalist Charles Darwin, who visited this bay as early as 1833. On Cape Horn, weather permitting, we visit one of the southernmost lighthouses in the world and have the opportunity to speak to the Chilean naval officer, who lives here with his family for a year. Of course we also see the Magellanic penguins before our arrival in the beautiful port city. A unique and unforgettable journey at the end of the world awaits you!

SS Australis

SS America USS Westpoint SS Australis Italis Noga Alferdoss American Star Wreck

SS Australis 1964 – 1977

Chandris lines.

Chandris purchased the America for $4,250,000 (us) in 1964 and she sailed from New York to Pireaus where she was officially re registered as RHMS Australis (Australian Lady). The largest passenger liner to be aquired by Chandris, her career set to take her back to the Pacific where 20 years earlier she plied in far worst circumstances.

For the first 9 months Chandris converted the liner at Pireaus, her three class accommodation became a one class and her hull was stripped back and painted white, incidentally these refurbishments continued on and off to late 1967 which is why the early photos of Australis still show the aft mast etc.

Over this period of time her ‘AMERICA’ appearances were somewhat retained but the noticeable changes were that her aft promenade decks were extended, a swimming pool was constructed upon her reworked lido deck, the removal of her rear main mast and a new hook mast fitted to her aft funnel. The Boat deck had an extra lifeboat fitted either side and the old tourist class narrow windows were plated up.

Also most importantly was the installation of airconditioning to all of her cabins for passenger comfort. The renovations actually took some 3 years in total to do. Two of her aft cargo holds were remodelled to accompany the changes required by Chandris, overall at a cost of some $5,500,000.00, they gained around 350 extra cabins.

Her first voyage on 21st of August 1965 under the Chandris flag was to steam West through the Mediterranean Sea. She made her maiden arrivals at Rotterdam and Southampton before returning to the Mediterranean and then the Suez Canal. Once clear of the canal ‘AUSTRALIS’ stopped at Aden, Colombo, Fremantle, Melbourne, Sydney Aukland and Wellington. Her main role was bringing English, Dutch, German, Greek, Yugoslav and Italian immigrants to Australia, whilst also accommodating full paying passengers for round the world trips.

However her all white hull was soon causing a headache to Chandris, nothing could be done to keep her white and rust free and in desperation in late 1967 they painted the hull grey, which proved more successful.

During her 1967 trip when bound for Australia the ‘SS AUSTRALIS’ was diverted from her normal route via the Suez canal, due to the war and the canals closure, to a more southerly course, that via Cape Town. Also in 1967 the prefix of RHMS (Royal Hellinic Mail Ship) was dropped and the prefix “SS” was used ( Steam Ship) she was then re registered through Pananama.

FIRE – FIRE – FIRE – man the hoses all passengers to lifeboat stations!!!!.

Yes the worst thing that could happen to a ship at sea and it happened on board the Australis. On 22nd October 1970, a fire broke out in the galley whilst the Australis was between Auckland and Suva in the South Pacific. The message came through to Chandris head office “The Australis is burning we are abandoning ship”. She had 2,446 passengers and 586 crew on board. The fire started at 3.30pm and spread upwards from the galley through 7 decks buckling the dance floor in the ballroom. The fire raged for 9 1/2 hours through to 1 am that morning. All passengers had to remain at lifeboat stations the entire time. However the crews managed to control the blaze and temporary repairs were made. Water was waist deep in her galley when later inspected. After 12 days in Fiji she was repaired and again sailed her normal route.

Once the Arab and Israeli conflict had ended she again, in February 1976 (voyage 53 Southbound – incidentally my trip), steamed the Suez Canal route to Australia. In the meantime P & O had ceased the line voyages by the CANBERRA and ORIANA in 1975 allowing AUSTRALIS to be awarded the title of ‘the world’s largest express liner in regular scheduled service’.

The running costs for the AUSTRALIS in 1973 were about $20,000 per day, $5,000 of which would be her fuel costs. With her fuel tanks holding some 6,500 tons she could steam for 35 days without bunkering, but Chandris kept her ‘topped’ up to ensure she could take advantage of cheaper fuel at cheaper ports (Las Palmas, Cape Town and Fremantle).Port costs would for example cost Chandris some $20,000 per day in Southampton – remember these are all at prices in 1973 …..

The problem of catering for more than 2,000 passengers caused some minor problems with storage, remember the holds were converted and the more passengers you have the more baggage is stored down below. The amount of fresh water used daily, especially in the warmer climates would be approximately 450 tons per day, in the Pacific she could be at sea for 2 weeks without touching port and the run from Port Said to Fremantle a week. For her to hold this amount of fresh water was simply out of the question and apart from an emergency supply of 2000 tons of fresh water, the water used onboard was desalinated sea water.

Stores were kept in weird places, for example one curious passenger was up on the funnel deck, when he saw a door open in the forward funnel. (now we – after reading this web page would have realised the forward funnel was a dummy used to enhance her apperance, the average passenger would not). He walked over to the door in the forward funnel and looked in hoping to view the engines down the shaft. He could not believe what he saw ” The funnel was full of bloody potatoes” he was heard to comment

As the AUSTRALIS main passengers were those emigrating to Australia, the ship was usually full on the trip to Fremantle, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney. On departing Sydney and heading through the Pananama Canal back to Southampton the ship would be running at a loss so extrememy discounted fares were offered for round the world trips to Australians and New Zealanders to help in making the trip viable, until a full compliment of passengers were again embarked in Southampton.

Due to the long hours and days at sea the passengers were entertained, by themselves. There was a compere on board and a ships band, however all the other shows and functions were ‘staffed’ by passengers having a good time. When Chandris was questioned on wether they were skimping on passenger entertainment this was there answer ” What many passengers do not realise is that we are not running a luxury cruise, many cruise liners operating charge double what we charge, our main objective is to get our passengers safely to their destination”

Because of her ever increasing running costs, Chandris decided to withdraw her in 1977 rather than offer poor service, however the implementation of the jet age and in particular the long haul Jets (707 and 747) the passenger trade by sea dropped away. The Australian Government, after a lengthy emmigration period cancelled the contract for assisted passages to Australia.

Chandris lines had no option but to offer her for sale.

After her final trip to Australia arrangements were made to have her laid up in Timaru on the south island of New Zealand.

Click to move to her next chapter : SS AMERICA VENTURE CRUISES 1978

Folletos Australis

Australis te lleva a explorar las maravillosas atracciones de de esta hermosa región..

Nuestros  folletos  son una herramienta útil para aprender acerca de las diferentes atracciones que proveemos, rutas, gastronomía, y el equipo apropiado para su visita a la Patagonia.

• ¿Por qué un Crucero a la Patagonia?   Descubra el extraordinario paisaje y la fascinante vida silvestre que podrá ver al viajar a bordo de Australis.
• ¿Qué contempla el itinerario? 
• ¿Cuáles son las opciones?  Descubra todas las diferentes rutas que Australis le puede ofrecer.
• ¿Qué habré de aprender?  Conozca a los expertos multidisciplinarios que se encontrarán en su Equipo de Guías de Expedición.
• ¿Cómo se vive a bordo de Australis?
• Equipamiento:  ¿Qué deberé llevar?

Descargue nuestros folletos llenando el formulario en esta página. 

Descargar Folleto

Click the logo above to reach the ssMaritime FrontPage for News Updates & “Ship of the Month”

With Reuben Goossens

Maritime Historian , Cruise‘n’Ship Reviewer & Author

SS America / SS Australis

Later:   America – I talis – Noga – Alferdoss – American Star

Inside front cover photo of SS Australis found in her official 1967 brochure

Author’s private collection

This Page covers a great American liner, the SS America , (renamed West Point for five year during her wartime service) later to become the much loved Chandris Liner SS Australis . It covers her glory years as the America , West Point and Australis . However, her final years were tragic to say the least.

This page has five parts . 1, SS America & West Point . 2, SS Australis . 3, SS America. 4, SS Italis . 5, Her final years as the Alferdoss , Noga and American Star .

United States Lines

  SS America

West Point during wartime service

  SS America departs New York for Southampton

Langsdale Library

SS America predates a ship that became America ’s greatest maritime achievement the SS United States . The America was designed by William Francis Gibbs , who also designed the United States ( lovingly known as the “ Big U ” ) which obviously looked similar to the America , but the Big U was larger and became the fastest liner ever built. Architects chosen to design her interiors were Eggers & Higgins NY, and Smyth , Urquart and Marcwald NY was commissioned to complete her décor.

America ’s keel was laid on August 22, 1938 at the Newport-News Shipbuilding and Dry-dock Company. At 11.45a.m, on August 31, 1939, hull #1 was launched by Mrs Franklin Roosevelt , which just happens to be one day before Hitler invaded Poland . She was completed in July 1940, but she was unable to operate a Trans-Atlantic service as World War II had already commenced. The United States Line decided to place her on cruise duties. SS America departed New York on August 10, 1940 for her maiden voyage (cruise) to the Caribbean a service she continues over the next twelve months. During her first few cruises it became quite clear that there was a design problem relating to her aft funnel, as volumes of smut was falling on her afterdecks. Although her forward funnel was a dummy, United States Line decided to raise both funnels by 5m (15ft) , giving her a well balanced look.

As built SS America accommodated 543 passengers in Cabin Class, 418 in Tourist Class, and 241 in Third Class making a total of 1,202 passengers.

SS America was built with a partial US government subsidy which meant that the Government take her for wartime duties should it be needed. In July 1941 this became a reality as she was handed over to the US Navy. Renamed West Point and was converted as a troopship, which was completed in November. For her first war time voyage she joined a convoy from Halifax which was due to go to Egypt , but, was rerouted to Singapore sailing via Cape Town . West Point had an eventful war service having been attacked from the air many times.

SS West Point

As a troopship she called on Australia to collect Australian soldiers bound for Singapore . West Point also called on New Zealand to collect American troops bound for Noumea . This great ship covered much of the world, Europe, South America, the Pacific, Australasia, Asia, and Africa . In fact she sailed well over 550,000 miles having transported over 500,000 persons.

SS West Point was returned to the United States Line on July 22, 1946 and she was sent back to Newport-News Shipbuilding and Dry-dock Co to be refitted. Upon completion SS America was able to accommodate 516 First Class passengers, 371 Cabin Class, and 159 Tourist Class, reducing her original passenger capacity by 156.

  SS United States seen after the war

On November 14, 1946, she departed New York for her maiden Trans-Atlantic crossing as a passenger liner with 972 passengers on board. She called at Cobh, Southampton and Le Havre , a service she continued until October 1951 when Bremen was included as an occasional port of call. She was the company’s flagship until July 1952, when the great 44,893-ton SS United States entered service. Together they operated the Atlantic for the next 12 years.  

America seen at Southampton

With declining loadings it was decided in 1961 to convert the America into a two class liner combining Cabin and Tourist Class into a single class which could offer a new level of lower fares to encourage sea travel. In this new configuration she now accommodated 530 Tourist Class passengers.

A German United States Lines poster

On September 14, 1963, a union dispute stopped the ships departure from New York and there were no signs of her departing in the near future. The United States Line had her towed to Hoboken where she was laid up until February 1964. She recommenced her Trans-Atlantic service on February 7, and was to operate a regular service and summer cruises; however, the inevitable happened as the SS America became unprofitable to operate with a host of newer ships competing on the Atlantic . She departed New York on October 9, 1964, for her final return voyage to Europe and she returned to New York on October 27, and returned to Newport-News Shipbuilding Yards.

During her commercial service she made 288 voyages carrying a remarkable 476,462 passengers.

ddddddddddddddddddddddd

Chandris Lines

SS Australis

Ex America , West Point , America

SS Australis takes to sea

SS America was sold to Chandris Lines on October 5, 1964, and was handed over 12 days later when she was transformed externally with her funnels pained blue emblazoned with the famed Chandris large white – X- . On the same day SS America was renamed Australis . With the Greek flag flying from her stern, she departed New York on November 18, to the Chandris Shipyards at Piraeus to be converted to a liner for the UK to Australia and New Zealand service. Her accommodations were substantially increased now accommodating 2258 passengers in an all Tourist Class configuration. In addition both Upper and Main Decks were extended aft, replacing several Tourist Class lounges with cabins. In addition her hull was pained white with a blue ribbon.

The superb grand Ballroom

A postcard provided by ex steward Amos Ramponi

The Smoke Room

SS Australis departed Piraeus for her maiden voyage to Australia on August 21, 1965, sailing via the Suez Canal, and arriving at her destination, Sydney on September 15. She departed Sydney heading for Southampton , sailing via New Zealand and Tahiti, the Panama Canal , and Port Everglades. Her next voyage from Southampton to Australia was in reverse, sailing via the Panama Canal and returning to Southampton via the Suez Canal . Thereafter she sailed mostly to and from Australia via the Suez Canal until it was closed in 1967 due to the Middle East war and began sailing via Cape Town and Durban . SS Australis was the largest of all Chandris liner and she became a popular ship with Australians and New Zealanders. For this reason Chandris decided to commence operating cruises out of Australia during the summer of 1967.

A wonderful photograph from her official 1967 brochure

In 1968 several exterior changes were made, with her hull being painted a light grey, and her mainmast was removed. In 1967 she was reregistered in Panama , however, one year later Chandris Lines returned her to Greek registry.

SS Australis seen after the 1968 refit

1971 Chandris schedule

  Author’s private collection

In 1970 Chandris obtained the much sought after contract to bring British migrants to Australia . But on October 22, 1970, whilst sailing between Auckland and Suva , a fire broke out which damaged some 40 cabins as well as the famed red and gold Ballroom. In Suva minor repairs were made and she was able to continue eight days later. She continued on her Southampton to Australia service (as well as cruise duties) from both Brotain and her popular cruises from Australia of the Pacific and New Zealand .

One of ssMasritime staunch supporters Mr. Stan Evans under took a cruise on the Australis and provided the following photographs of the ships taken during his cruise.

The brass and glass doors of the main Lounge as seen from the Mezzanine level

Here we Stan alongside the SS Australis at Suva

  Passengers exploring the market stalls

The four photographs above are all © Stan Evans Newcastle Australia  

She continued her voyages and cruises until she arrived in Sydney on December 17, 1977. She was scheduled to undertake another cruise, however this was suddenly cancelled, and she sailed for Auckland where she arrived on December 20. After her arrival she was laid up at Timaru , New Zealand .

Note her aft funnel smoke uptake

A superb model of the SS Australis

An unknown source

Venture Cruise Line

Chandris sold her America Cruise Lines, thus, four months after her lay up SS Australis departed New Zealand for New York , arriving there on May 19, 1978. Her new owners placed her in dry-dock, where her hull was painted dark blue, as were her funnels but her band atop was pained red. Externally she looked a little like her original self. America Cruise Lines decided to rename her America once again, hoping to cash in on patriotism. Due to some confusion regarding the company’s name, they changed it to Venture Cruise Line.

SS America, looking good, but only for a few months

On June 30, 1978, SS America departed New York for a mini cruise with 950 passengers on board. However, as renovations had not been completed, a large team of workers remained on board to make her - well the only word I can use is “habitable.” Many passengers rebelled due to the ships poor condition and soon there was chaos on board. It was a bad start, as passengers from the moment they boarded did not feel like this was a cruise ship ready to sail. Six hours after her departure she turned back to New York and anchored off Staten Island where 250 unhappy passengers disembarked and taken ashore in lifeboats.

Passengers stated that she was filthy and rubbish was scattered around the ship, this included old mattresses, linen and bags full of rubbish etc. But, they stated the worst was a stench that filled the ship. The bad odour was apparently due to a large blocked toilets on the lower decks, but worse still much of it came from the ships galley.

There was no doubt, when Australis was sold she was in a run down state as Chandris had kept maintenance to a minimum during her last year. Tragically her decks were suffering, as no corking or sanding had been done for a number of years. Rust was to be found everywhere, especially in her forward “dummy” funnel. The list was endless. It is sad to say, but this was not exactly Chandris’ highpoint considering their past record. Obviously, Venture Shipping Line should have given her an extended refit and a complete maintenance regime at a major shipyard before commencing cruising.

Upon her return three days later, she departed for her second cruise with 640 passengers on board, but it was decided during this cruise that due to the ongoing problems, all future cruises would be cancelled. Sadly the revival of the SS America proved to be a total disaster for Venture Cruise lines who soon filed for bankruptcy.

From ashore SS America seemed to look fine

Photograph from an unknown source

Chandris Cruises

SS Italis looking somewhat sad without her forward funnel

SS America was sold at auction back to Chandris who purchased her for just $1 million, being 4 million less then what they had sold her for just four months earlier. With a small number of crew on board she departed New York on September 6, 1978, bound for Piraeus , where Chandris gave her an extensive a refit making her ready to become a full time cruise ship. Her hull was repainted in a lighter shade of blue, which suited her, but sadly, this refit saw one other change to her well balanced external appearance, her badly rusted forward “dummy” funnel had to be removed, as it had become a danger due to the massive corrosion that had taken place over the past years, something Chandris knew very well before they sold her. No, not all things about Chandris Lines in their latter years could be considered as great. In the past I greatly respected Chandris as a company, having worked closely with hem, having been the Queensland ( Australia ) General sales Agent!

Upon completion, she was renamed Italis and she was now ready to commence Mediterranean cruises out of Genoa . She was marketed as the “Italian lady.” SS I talis departed Genoa on July 28, 1979, for her first cruise, but just two months later she was permanently withdrawn from service. She was laid up at Eleusis Greece . Her 1980 cruise schedule was transferred to her ex running mate, RHMS Ellinis .

After her second, very short career with Chandris, this once great liner would never carry passenger again, however, unlike other vintage ships in her position, amazingly she remained afloat for well over a decade, but it has to be said, throughout those years she was in a disgusting condition.

Italis seen laid up at Eleusis Greece

The final years

In May 1980, she was sold to the “Inter Commerce Corporation” for “ Noga d'Importation et d'Exportation,” who renamed her Noga . But again she remained idle. In 1984 Silver Moon Ferries Ltd purchased her and she was given an Arabic name Alferdoss , meaning “paradise.” Well, she may have been named “paradise,” but onboard it was more like hell remaining laid up. Then in October 1988, one of her bilge pumps had rusted so badly her engine room flooded resulting in her listing to port. It was decided to beach her and pump her dry.

Eventually a ship breaker purchased her for $2 million, placing half as a deposit. As soon as they could they began to partially dismantle her, but soon it became clear with the breakers defaulting with the final payment, demolition work was immediately halted. The question is , was this great liner fighting back?

The end of the old girl

There was a move in Australia to purchase her and have her permanently berthed on Melbourne as a tourist facility. This would have been ideal as she brought countless thousands of European and British migrants to Melbourne and had become much loved ship by all. However, before a deal could be completed another company entered the scene as the Alferdoss was purchased by a Thai company in 1992.

The intention was to renovate her to become a floating hotel in Phuket. In order to prepare her to be towed to Asia she was dry-docked for two months, after which she was to be towed by the Ukrainian tug Neftegaz 67 for the 100 day voyage to Asia .

Renamed American Star she departed Piraeus on December 24, 1993, however due to extreme weather conditions Alferdoss had to return to port the next day. Six days later on New Years Eve she recommenced her journey and passed Gibraltar on January 12, 1994.

But trouble struck the ill-fated ship. On January 15, during a severe storm she broke loose and remained adrift with four salvage crew still on board. Several attempts were made to take her under tow again, but this failed. The four crew members were winched off the ship by helicopter, and she was left adrift. On January 17 American Star ran aground on the west coast off Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands . Then 48 hours later with massive waves pounding her she broke in two. American Star was officially declared a total loss six months later in June . Eventually due to the elements, her stern section collapsed into the sea. Today her bow, part of her forward superstructure and the lower section of her funnel (the top having fallen into the sea recently) remains. As can be seen from the photograph below, the bridge is also slowly collapsing, and soon the sea will finally claim her.

The end of a great liner - American Star is slowly disappearing into the sea

It is now 67 years (October 2006) since SS America was launched, and for 39 years she faithfully transported passengers on line voyages and on cruises, as well as carrying troops during the war. In addition she was laid up in Greece for 14 years and she has sat defiantly on the beach for another 13 years. This old girl certainly has not given up easily, but, I have to say that her end is now close as stated earlier, she is deteriorating rapidly. All this proves that she was a strong and a well built ship, one America can be proud off, and I hope that Americans will take a stand, and prove their pride in remembering the great shipbuilding days of the Unites States. SS America has gone, but the SS United States remains and she should be retained by America and place in New York as a reminder of America ’s great maritime history!

March 2009 : As can be seen from the photo below the American Star has slowly succumbed to the sea and will soon disappear altogether. It is amazing how she has stood the forces of the ocean for this long!

 The American Star, once the much loved Australis & America is arriving at her final hours!

I am well aware that the once great SS America will remain in our memories, as thousands of Americans, English and Europeans have sailed her. Then, as the beloved Chandris flagship SS Australis she provided a service countless thousands will never forget, be it as passengers that came to Australia and New Zealand as migrants, or as holiday makers to and from the UK as well as on Pacific cruises. For 39 years she served the United States Line and Chandris Line well.

I trust that ex passengers and those who admired her whilst she was in port have enjoyed this feature on the great SS America and SS Australis , a ship that will not be forgotten by all who sailed on her!

As stated earlier, I was the General Sales Agent (GSA) of Chandris in Queensland Australia and was fortunate to sail on all the Chandris liners more than once. My company (Australian Express) operated the annual “Round the World Tours,” sailing to and from the UK , and touring the UK and Europe . Each departure saw around 800 passengers depart Sydney heading for the UK , and believe me at times this was a logistical nightmare.

My memories of the Australis , as well as the Patris , Ellinis and Britanis are memorable, especially the many friendships made with the always happy Greek crew!

Cover of the official 1967 Chandris brochure

INDEX 

SS America – Australis Main Page

SS Australis 1967 brochure and photo page 1

SS Australis 1967 brochure and photo page 2

Also visit the following Chandris features online

SS Britanis

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Commenced in the passenger Shipping Industry in May 1960    

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Photographs on ssmaritime and associate pages are by the author or from the author’s private collection. In addition there are some images that have been provided by Shipping Companies and private photographers or collectors. Credit is given to all contributors. However, there are some photographs provided to me without details regarding the photographer/owner concerned. I hereby invite if owners of these images would be so kind to make them-selves known to me (my email address may be found on www.ssmaritime.com only), in order that due credit may be given. I know what it is like, I have seen a multitude of my own photographs on other sites, yet these individuals either refuse to provide credit or remove them when asked, knowing full well that there is no legal comeback when it comes to the net. However, let us show these charlatans up and do the right thing at all times and give credit where credit is due!

This notice covers all pages, although, and I have done my best to ensure that all photographs are duly credited and that this notice is displaced on each page, that is, when a page is updated!

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