Quick reference - BI ships mentioned on this page: Amra, Angora, Aronda, Australia, Bombala, Bulimba, Busiris, Camorta, Canara, Chakdara, Chakdina, Chakrata, Chanda, Chandpara, Chantala, Chilka, Chindwara, Chinkoa, Chyebassa, Coringa, Dara, Devonia, Dilwara, Domala, Dorunda, Dumra, Dunera, Dwarka, Egra, Ellora, Empire Fowey, Empire Trooper, Ethiopia, Gamaria, Gurna, Haitan, Hatarana, Howra, Huzara, Ismaila, Jumna, Jurenda, Kampala, Karagola, Karanja, Karapara, Kenya, Khandalla, Landaura, Lunka, Madura, Main, Mantola, Masula, Matiana, Modasa, Mombasa, Mulbera, Nardana, Nerbudda, Neuralia, Nevasa, Nowshera, Nuddea, Nyanza, Okhla, Paliconda, Queda, Quiloa, Rajpootana, Rajula, Rangoon, Rohilla, Rohna, Roma, Sangola, Santhia, Shirala, Sirdhana, Sirsa, Sofala, Surada, Takada, Talamba, Talma, Tanda, Taroba, Teesta, Torilla, Uganda, Umta, Urlana, Vasna, Waroonga, Woodarra, Zaida, Zira

This page contains abstracts from the BIship logbook, June 2002 to March 2003.

See archived logbooks at:
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | May-Dec 2003 | 2002/03 | 2001/02 | 2000/01

...sign the logbook anywhere you see the icon

Terry Cook, Canda - Sunday, March 30, 2003 at 23:38:18
Would anyone be able to tell me how long it would have taken to travel from India to England by ship in the late 1800's? Need this information for my daughter's school project.

David Tuthill, UK - Friday, March 28, 2003 at 00:56:32
Brilliant site,have already applied to join, I have just spotted a name of a shipmate Bob Galloway from my Nowshera days and will be getting in touch.

Arlene Osborne, Canada - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 04:53:49
I have a menu from the British India Steam Nav Co Ltd. S.S. "Nevasa." Sept.24,1918 is there a picture of this ship and passenger list that I could match up to. A distant reletive may have been on board. [For a picture of the first Nevasa see previous logentries page]

Leslie Ashton, Australia - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 04:51:37
I was a passenger aboard SHIRALA when she was berthed near FORT STIKINE in Bombay, April 14, 1944, when STIKINE blew up while loading cotton and ammunition. I always had the impression that SHIRALA was sunk in the disaster, but I find that she only vanished in '51. Can anyone please fill me in on what happened to her in Bombay harbour, and what her service was subsequently?

Manuel de Santaclara, Portugal - Sunday, March 23, 2003 at 14:37:14
Your site is very beautuful. I would like received everiday all information about this site. Congratulations. Best regards

John Foster, US - Friday, March 21, 2003 at 06:27:44
My father was aboard the HMT Rohna that was sunk off the coast of Tunisia, 26NOV 1943. I was in search of details and histories of the tragedy and any knowledge of my father, William Hentry Foster, Jr. I have 2 books that are mentioned on the Rohna Memorial web Page: http://www.whidbey.net/rohna/memorial.htm There is no mention of his name in the survivors listings...only a mention, in one of the personal stories, of a unit that he had been a part of - "...The Doolittle HDQs group...". If there are mainfests or records of his passage on this vessel, I would appreciate any documentation that you may be able to share with me, for my personal and family history, use only.

Genevieve Minjoot-Pereira, Australia - Friday, March 21, 2003 at 05:28:21
Am trying to find out the name of the ship captained by my great-grandfather, but don't know how to proceed

Frank Lawlor, Australia - Thursday, March 20, 2003 at 07:15:27
Very interesting. I have pleasant memories of BI and the Gulf run.

Richard Holmes, UK - Monday, March 17, 2003 at 15:26:12
I served nearly 3 years from 1970 to 1973, my ships were the Kampala until we took her to Tiawan for scrapping.Then I served on the Dwarka for 6 weeks in dry dock in Hongkong, that was like being a 6 year old let loose in a candy shop,marvellous memories. Luckily i went down with Appendicitis just before the Dwarka sailed for the Arabian Gulf, that was a lucky break. After 3 weeks in hospital in Hongkong i flew to Kobe to join the Nowshera, the happyist time in my life. Some names i remember, by the way i served as a fiver for my time. Joe Nelson, John "twinkle" Hughes, Colin Warburton, Ken Jones, Derek Barks, Its such a long time ago but i had the time of my life, days never to be forgotten

Alberto Silva, Mozambique - Mon, 17 Mar 2003 15:02:15
I am sending you here the BI Agent plaque which I found recently on an old street at Mozambique Island, off the coast of Mozambique (former Portuguese East Africa). This plaque is what triggered my curiosity about BI and its possible involvement in Mozambique - hence the questions that I posed to you in my previous e-mail. [BI certainly did trade to many ports in PEA. The main trade was probably with Lourenco Marques (Maputo) and Beira (Sofala) which were two of the ports of call for the India-East Africa and the UK-East Africa passenger liners. BI had agents in some places which were not visited by the ships. These agents were often cargo and/or passenger agents, booking space for local shippers and passengers in ships loading at and departing from other ports. By the design of the plaque, I would say it is mid-late 1960s. - Editor]

Fraser Brunton, UK - Saturday, March 15, 2003 at 23:45:54
Thank you for this web site which has helped me to find out more about the SS Modasa, whose ship's clock has been passed onto to me by my late father and grandfather.

Alberto Silva, Mozambique - Friday, March 14, 2003 at 06:55:15
I was quite happy to find your very interesting and informative web site but would like to know more about BI's shipping route to Mozambique or Mozambique Island in particular.

Ian Gilchrist, UK - Sunday, March 9, 2003 at 16:52:56
My father, James Mckenzie Gilchrist worked in India for 30 years. When I was very young I recall my mother anxiously seeking information on the location of his ship travelled from Calcutta or Bombay just after the war in Europe ended. It seemed to be lost for weeks then arrive safely. I am fairly certain the ship was the Mulbera. If it is at all possible to obtain some information about this voyage I would be very grateful.

Kirit Patel, US - Sunday, March 9, 2003 at 05:35:09
I would like to research a burial at sea for my fathers brother in 1940,1941,1942 on the sailing ship Karanja from Dar es Salaam to Bombay India

John Barrett, UK - Thursday, February 27, 2003 at 19:32:33
Joined Waronga in April 1968 as a brand new Deck Cadet, it was her last voyage to Australia under BI. A great way to start a life at sea. Good site lots of ships that I remember. Does anyone know if the ships staff lists are available anywhere?

Leo Trolan, UK Tuesday, February 25, 2003 at 21:23:17
Just found and joined this group. reading through the logbook came across a couple of familiar names - Jim Caird and Frank McKay. went to college with both and was on Tanda with Frank. love to hear from you again.

Elizabeth Hammergren-Smith, UK - Sunday, February 23, 2003 at 21:18:50
I am trying to find the passenger and crew list of the M.V. DOMALA as I am trying to find out about a relative by the name of HERBERT J. SONLEY who travelled on it 14th May 1931. If anyone can help me please e-mail me at liz@inctech.com I would be very grateful

Kneale Barber, Australia - Saturday, February 22, 2003 at 06:40:47
Very interesting and informative site. I remember many names with affection from my time as a cadet on Chindwara in 1956 to my final voyage on Chinkoa as 2nd Mate in 1965. Congratulations to those with the nouse and energy to run this site.

Randle Biddle, US - Wednesday, February 19, 2003 at 17:56:32
Is anyone aware of a finely made and authentic model of GOLCONDA ex NULLI SECUNDA? This query part of a research project being conducted in conjunction with the Nautical Research Guild/Journal. Thanks!

Patrick Trolan, UK - Saturday, February 15, 2003 at 11:06:56
Just found this site and nostalgia set in. Hi to Jim Caird and Frank McKay with whom I was at college, and with Frank on Tanda. Also Hi to Barton Kimberly Bampton (Seamus) with whom I was on watch on Dwarka Sept. to Nov. 1977. My e-mail adress is patricktrolan@hotmail.com so please get in touch.

Duncan Wilson, UK - Saturday, February 15, 2003 at 01:00:01
great site!

Gwyn Lewis, UK - Friday, February 14, 2003 at 13:21:49
Excellent site, will be back

Chas Preston, UK - Thursday, February 13, 2003 at 21:27:22
Excellent especialy the company sing alongs

Christopher Bunn, US - Wednesday, February 12, 2003 at 21:50:13
I am the son of Capt. L. A. Bunn any information about his life with BI would be most welcome.

Peter Etheridge, Channel Island - Sunday, February 9, 2003 at 09:03:20
BI from 13/07/58 to28/10/60. Sailed on Nardana, Chantala, Dumra and Canara. Mainly on Chantala and Canara.

Thomas Miller-McCall, UK - Saturday, February 8, 2003 at 23:19:06
Served on cadetship Chindwara 59-63.transferred to trident tankers as 3/0 63-66 then went into shore officers personnel 66-68 followed by work study and O@M upto 71.spent 8 years in middle east ship agency management with ybakanoo group. after went to west africa as ship owner MD in 1979/80 followed by MD of papua new guinea ship corp thence oil field bases, crude oil and shipping management in west africa upto recently.unexplained bouts of cardiac arrests known as sudden cardiac death strikes me down . amazingly on four occassions i was with my gp a heart cosultant or surgeon when it ocurred.my engine room has been under extensive replacement refurbishment and repair. lucky enough the guy up top will not let me through the gates and kicks me out back here. would like to renew all aquaintances during chindwara years .my trip was with hockings butler fairclough church omerod and white ive now got a lot of spare time to fill up.

Robert Martin, US - Friday, February 7, 2003 at 22:34:57
Just found this sight today looking forward to exploring it more, so far it has been great.

Thomas McCall, UK - Thursday, February 6, 2003 at 21:51:17
Spent 1959-1963 on cadetship Chindwara great days great time. moved on to deck officer Trident Tankers 1963 1966 thence shore positions up the ladder to managing director of cargo container and oil shipping companies companies world wide. ill health 'sudden cardiac death ' on four occassions struck me down 1999 to 2003 forcing me to retire but survive somehow and get bored. would like to help and get involved and meet old faces.

Ken Smith, UK - Thursday, February 6, 2003 at 16:12:05
I am interested in the journey of the Dilwara from India to England in approximately March 1939

David Cornelius-Reid, UK Tuesday, February 4, 2003 at 10:09:47
My grandfather, Captain Ernest Ashby, was a captain with BI during WW2 and up to the 50's. He died in 1977, and ever since, I have wanted to trace any records, memories that anyone might have of him. I have in my possession, many of his documents and photographs, and memorabilia. I would welcome the opportunity to share this with interested parties (but would never part with any of it) Can anyone help me?

James Woods - Saturday, February 1, 2003 at 03:26:42
great site

Gordon MacKay, UK - Wednesday, January 29, 2003 at 19:50:56
Any information on the SS.Urlana, wrecked during WW2 on the West coast of Skye in the Hebrides, would be appreciated

Ruth Croft, Birmingham - Friday, January 24, 2003 at 01:22:32
I've recently discovered that a relative, Alexander IRVINE, born in 1834, was a Commander "B.I.S.N. Co. Service." His Grandfather in Aberdeen was a 'Ship Owner' so maybe that's why he joined up? Could anyone suggest how I might find out more about his service record? Thanks, Ruth.

Herbert Scharz, Canada - Thursday, January 23, 2003 at 21:24:34
My wife Mary (REVILL) Schwarz's grand father served with this company from March 1894 to May 1906 as a Master Mariner.

Attilio Carrozzini, Italy - Thursday, January 23, 2003 at 16:45:27
I visited your site becouse i was looking for information about Neuralia (pictured here). I found its shipwreck in the south of italy. She was mined off in 1945. I made many research to disvover the ship name. Have you other information about Neuralia? The shipwreck was partially removed in 1954 for navigation safwty. Now it seems all but a ship. I have a a part of a porthole. [BI by Laxon & Perry and Valiant Voyaging by Hilary Saunders have more information about Neuralia and her sinking. Details of these books can be found on the Books page - Editor]

David Thomas, UK - Sunday, January 19, 2003 at 21:13:45
Tariq Malik, Canada: contact me re Dara: have a bit of info including book & engineer aboard at the time. Phone : 01639 830995; e-m: argonaut.phaiacia@btopenworld.com

Mark Worth, UK - Sunday, January 19, 2003 at 18:18:00
my father (william thirlaway worth) billy/oscar sailed on Uganda in the 50s if anyone remembers him please contact me,thank you.

Douglas Rothnie, UK - Saturday, January 18, 2003 at 14:41:37
Hello Brian Warburton, nice to get a response to my logentry, I remember Quiloa well and enjoyed my time in her, having a workaholic second made my life a breeze. I hear from Andy Mackie that you are/were in business in the Midlands. On leaving Ottawa I moved on to Distillery work until retiring fifteen years ago and since then have golfed, caravanned, travelled a bit and generally enjoyed life. Best wishes from both of us.

Alberto Cunto, Italy - Saturday, January 18, 2003 at 11:14:09
For historical research i need ANDREW MUNRO photo's , the commander on last UMBALLA voyage, torpedoed in date 25 december 1917.

Douglas Lothian, UK - Thursday, January 16, 2003 at 16:14:16
I was the 3 R/O on Devonia during the summer of 1966 and at the ripe old age of 20 had the time of my life. The cruises, passengers, food and crew were the best. The master was Capt. Downer (RN) retired and the chief R/O was a great guy by the name of Dave Easton. I remember we were in Belfast the day England won the World Cup and me and three other officers sat in a hired car outside a hotel listening to the last 15 griping minutes of that memorable game on the car radio. Imagine our dismay when we walked into the hotel bar to find everyone sitting round a big TV, I'll never forget these words "YOU THOUGHT IT WAS ALL OVER, WELL IT IS NOW" how true.

John Esslemont, Australia - Thursday, January 16, 2003 at 09:16:41
This is a very interesting well put together site. I served 7 years on BI ships the last on Chakrata as second engineer. I recognise some of the names in this log book, and welcome contact. Our 35 year old son learned to walk onboard Chakrata when he was 10 months old

Cliff Jones-Cassidy, Canada - Tuesday, January 14, 2003 at 01:06:26
To Tim Dean of Australia who wrote to BI on Wed September 25, 2002 my email address is cjonescassidy@netscape.net. I am currently editing an article by a retired airline pilot who was on the Rajputana probably the same time as your father. Please contact me

Cliff Jones-Cassidy, Canada - Monday, January 13, 2003 at 15:21:37
Tim Dean of Australia asked about S.S.Rajputana. She was a P&O liner launched in 1925. Became merchant cruiser, eventually sunk by submarine U-108. [Refers to posting of Sep 25, 2002]

John Bishop, UK - Friday, January 10, 2003 at 18:19:02
I was a passenger on HMT Dunera in the early 50's and was on Empire Troopers last voyage.Any pictures please? I can reminis if wanted!

Brian Warburton, UK Friday, January 10, 2003 at 08:27:10
Hello Doug Rothnie, we sailed together on Quiloa about 63 with our wives, I was second to your Chief, good memories of that ship. hope you and Mrs Rothnie are keeping well. Why not look at the BI chat room on BIship@yahoogroups.com lots of familiar names and contacts.

John Foster, US - Tuesday, January 7, 2003 at 00:37:07
I am looking for information on the HMT Rohna that was sunk in the MED Sea 26NOV1943. There is slight evidence that my father was on that vessel and was a victim of the German attack on that day. There is a survivor/victim website that cannot account for his name or serial number among the victims. Admittedly they do claim that some names are missing. Is there a roster or manifest of the US contingent on board the ship that day?

Jessica De Mellow, UK - Friday, January 3, 2003 at 02:51:02
Has anyone a picture of the first Matiana (torpedoed 1918) or information about E.Rodwell Esq, serving aboard the Matiana as second mate during the 1901 census? I came into possession of his (inscribed) sea chest recently and would be fascinated to know more about its first owner.

Derek Boardman, US - Thursday, January 2, 2003 at 18:43:48
Excellent site.I have made contact with an old shipmate (CHANDA) at whose wedding I was best man 40 years ago in Australia.Also see other known names in the log.

(Navigation tip for recent browser versions: double-click anywhere on this page to return to the top)

Peter Sawtell, UK - Tuesday, December 31, 2002 at 14:47:18
Seeing illustrations of some of the ships and reading about them invoked the nostalgia associated with one of the best periods of my life. I would like to know where some of my old shipmates are and how they are faring these days.

Doug Rothnie, UK - Friday, December 27, 2002 at 14:57:24
Still finding my way around this site, pleased to see entries from Alex.Malcolm and Douglas Christie. Regards to both. Is this Doug.Christie ex Waroonga, Quiloa and Ottawa ?, happy memories of Waroonga and Quiloa. Sorry can't say the same of Ottawa. Sorry to hear of Jimmy Wheelan's death, I share the feelings of the entries author with regard to the stature of the man.

Douglas Rothnie, UK - Monday, December 23, 2002 at 17:32:45
Just found this web site, courtesy of Andy Mackie, will need time to explore.

Glenn Randall, UK - Friday, December 20, 2002 at 00:55:48
Sailed on the Uganda a few months before she went out to the Fauklands war. Trying to find out all information to this great ship that gives me happy memories. execelent web site.p.s school cruise's changed after she left service instead of seing Egypt, Greece and the world school parties were sent to the Isle of White!! What a great loss

Michael Poushkine, UK - Saturday, December 14, 2002 at 21:38:05
I am trying to trace the record of Capt F B Bignold. Retired 1930 ish. My Grandfather.

Kenneth Jones, UK - Tuesday, December 3, 2002 at 13:36:12
CHINKOA FROM 1960-65 POSITION AS RADIO OFFICER

Dermot Taylor, Singapore - Friday, November 29, 2002 at 14:13:38
My Father, John (Jack) Taylor, who died in 1983 (age 68) was at sea with BI - as was his father, Chief Engineer - until he came ashore at the end of WW2 to take up a position with The African Wharfage Co in Lindi, E.Africa. My Father left me a cigerette case which has engraved the names of the ships he served on during his career with BI:

AUSTRALIA NERBUDDA HATARANA TALMA ANGORA TAKADA

KARAGOLA ETHIOPIA KHANDALLA SIRSA ARONDA SHIRALA

EGRA MASULA MODASA DOMALA MANTOLA GAMARIA

CANARA ISMAILA GURNA LANDAURA

I recall my father showing me a press cutting (Glasgow newspaper) of a vessel he was serving on as 3rd officer which was bombed at the outset of WW2 - there were many casualties although my father was fortunate to survive. I am very interested to trying and find out more about this incident and vessel and I would be most grateful if somebody could point me in the right direction as to where I might find the answers.

Kenneth Anderson, US - Wed, 27 Nov 2002 12:43:46 -0500
My name is Kenneth Anderson (age 45), son of Iain M. Anderson (age 71) who grew up in India and was educated in Scotland. My father has given to me a "ship in a bottle" that he received from a gentleman whom my Father said was the Captain of the British India Steam Navigation Company, Motor Vessel Amra (2??). My father received this hand-made "boat in a bottle", (looks like a Johnny Walker bottle) around 1941-2. My Father has told me the story that the captain (John Heath?) made these boat-in-a bottle models on his journeys across the ocean to pass the time, especially during WW II.
Obviously, this handmade boat-in-a-bottle holds a great deal of history and sentimental value to our family. The reason for this e-mail is to find out the history of the boat and the captain, who was a friend of my grandfather, Mr. Ian Hoyle Anderson of Calcutta, India, (died around 10 years ago). All my father can remember is the following:
1. He thinks the captain was John Heath
2. The ship was the Amra (2?), which was converted to a hospital ship in 1941. It was a two funnel cargo liner that was converted.
3. The managing agent for the ship was MacKinnon MacKenzie.
Any information on this boat and it's captain would be greatly appreciated.
[Amra was one of three A Class ships built in the UK for BI 1938-41. Amra was the first of the trio, built by Swan Hunter & Wigham Richardson. She was eventually disposed of by BI in 1965. The A Class were impressive ships of around 8300 tons gross. They had steam turbines with coal-fired boilers, twin screws, and Amra was built with accommodation for 2482 passengers. As far as I know Amra only ever had one funnel. After her war service, Amra was employed on BI's Bombay-East Africa run. Editor]

Ian Coombe, Canada - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 18:38:56
Great web site for BI people. I have inserted into my MN links on www.mnnostalgia.com

Christopher Rickman, UK - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 16:21:49
My Great grandfather was a master mariner on the Rohilla. He lost his life on the Whitby Rocks. Family anecdotes say that he died saving others. His name was Robbins. I wondered if there was any information specifically related to him in any Company records or if his records would be with the War Office.
[H Robins is among the dead commemorated on the Rohilla memorial in Whitby cemetery. See book review of The Wreck of HMHS Rohilla - Editor]

Terry Gardner, Canada - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 06:12:00
Just found the website. Was R/O on OKHLA, 1958-1961, plus DWARKA, and NUDDEA for shorter periods. My best times at sea, Capt. Jack Singer, C/E Laurie Edwards, Ken Farmer a great Cricketer and 2/E, Alec Matthews, Dick Wilson, John Grimshaw, Ian Winton and George Bowie (fiver) are names from the past plus many others including my now brother-in-law Bob Andrews. Thank you BI.

Ray Holborn, UK - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 14:54:57
Nice site, if Fred Warrington reads this Hi Fred he was 3/Eng on Sir Geraint 1968/69 when I was R/O on her

Buster Browne, Australia - Monday, 18 Nov 2002 13:06:54
Trawling through a local library a friend found an unidentified happy snap [shown right, with thanks to Dallas Hogan] of what is certainly MADURA at Singapore - and certainly taken in late January 1942 as there are reports in various BI publications of her being damaged on 31/1/1942, though the HMSO listing has the date of damage as 3/2/1942. The Singapore Harbour Board tug (now thought to be TUNDA) can be seen berthed ahead of MADURA, seemingly with only a few hours of existence left. At least one book on BI details how the tug TUNDA, berthed ahead of MADURA at Singapore, took a direct hit during the Japanese air attacks and virtually disappeared. This image was certainly taken within hours of this incident.

Tariq Malik, Canada - Sunday, November 17, 2002 at 00:10:59
Excellent site. Its a valuable resource for research. My cousin Shafiq Malik was one of the persons aboard the Ill-fated SS Dara on the day it sank. I would like to contact anyone who has further information about the accident or a link to anyone who does. Thanks.

Paul Moore, UK - Saturday, November 16, 2002 at 09:48:39
My Grandad was serving on the Chakdina when the vessel was sunk in Tobruk Dec 1941. Does anyone have any more information about this? Many thanks

Alastair Rhind, UK - Friday, November 15, 2002 at 17:08:51
Hi there, sailed as Radio Officer on Dwarka during 1976 and again 1979. Good to see Barton Kimberley Bampton and Graeme Perkins couple of names from my era. Do you remember my fellow R/O Jim Anderson from Shetland, we are still in touch, also 3/O Lindsay Copeman from Aussie he is still going strong Many happy memories, I am still on the high sea working on offshore oil platforms in the North Sea - big waves!!! Take it easy guys all the best - excellent site.

Greg Crawford, Australia - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 12:48:00
Family came out on the Roma and Camorta. I will come back to this site to extract more info.

Bob Gentles, Canada - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 03:59:40
Great to keep in touch with wonderful shipmates

Gary Rolf, Australia - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 15:33:18
Thank you for you site. I remember some of the ships as a younger man hehe visiting Adelaide. it brings back fond memories

Nasar Ilyas, UK - Saturday, November 9, 2002 at 01:02:09
My great grandfather worked on hms ranpura/mantua/china in around 1917/24. i want any information on these liners and about life on board.thank you

Ivor Lloyd, UK - Thursday, November 7, 2002 at 16:36:36
Thanks to the BI Site I have been able to trace and contact Walter Blewer who was a Cadet on the Surada when torpedoed on 26/1/1944 i was Radio 0fficer.

Bob Kimmings, UK - Wednesday, November 6, 2002 at 21:10:02
Good site. Some signers in have familiar names, especially Steve Smith, who, together with Bob Leighton on the Nuddea tied me to a chair to prevent me going ashore in Dar to a hot date. B...d! Does anybody out there know what happened to Graeme McHardy? Joined as cadet in 1965.

Nicholas Cerecedes, US - Tuesday, November 5, 2002 at 05:40:23
I'm looking for my 3 great grandfather Andrew Wallace a ship navigator. He died in 1880

Paul Orwin, UK - Sunday, November 3, 2002 at 06:17:49
Any one signed in was a Deck Cadet on the last voyages of cadetship Chantala to East Africa, return to UK and finally to Singapore?

Les Mason, UK - Friday, November 1, 2002 at 14:28:28
The BI holds some very happy memories for me. A great site.

Shirley Noall, UK - Thursday, October 31, 2002 at 16:10:07
Bit disappointed at not finding SS Lanka; nearest was SS Lunka, which might have been a misprint/spelling. My Grandmother was married in 1908 and gave SS Lanka as her residential address. Wonder if there is another way to find out more about the SS Lanka?

(Navigation tip for recent browsers: double-click anywhere on this page to return to the top)

Jose Winters, UK - Wednesday, October 30, 2002 at 21:21:55
My older sister was named Vasna, after the hospital ship my father returned from India on about 1918

Bill Noble, UK - Sunday, October 27, 2002 at 18:27:39
Served in BI from 1956 to 1963. Sailed on Chantala, Kenya, Dunera, Woodarra and Queda during that time.

Doug Powell, UK - Thursday, October 24, 2002 at 22:01:20
This is what I've been looking for for years! I was 2nd sparks (doh nr Marconi sahib) on SANTHIA Feb 1958 to Nov 1959. Two of the best years of my life; most of it being on the Japan run from Calcutta. Due entirely to my fault I lost touch with some good guys: Tony Boddy, 3rd mate, later 2nd on the Okhla, and Graham Stanford cadet: I owe you a letter! Like most ROs I didn't stay at sea all that long, But like most of the people who read this, it was the defining period of my life.

Daniel Morgan, Switzerland - Thursday, October 24, 2002 at 19:41:16
I am desperate to get in contact with Mike Smith from Canada, who left a message about HMS Manistee (sunk 1941). How does one get in touch with people who leave messages in the logbook anyhow? My email is familymorgan@bluewin.ch

Fonny, Sri Lanka - Thursday, 24 Oct 2002 16:17:40
I am researching Mackinon and Mackenzie in Ceylon and would like to know of the history of this company. The material in your website do not indicate the role played by this company subsequent to the formation of the British India Stemship company. What role did they play after that. In Sri Lanka today the company exists as Mackinnon Mackenzie (Ceylon) and I found evidence of the company remaining in Bombay and in Hong Kong. Please help me with whatever information you may have.

John Tanner, Channel Islands - Saturday, October 19, 2002 at 23:59:37
Joined [BI] 1960, left 1973. Lots of ocean racing,incl.2 Skippered superyachts & Channel Is passenger ferry. Head of Seamanship Dept. at Gordonstoun School.

Andrea Whittaker, UK - Saturday, October 19, 2002 at 22:56:04
Looking for info re great-grandparents - surname Sacre. Arrived SS Taroba in Sydney 1890.

Phillip Smithson, UK - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 14:34:22
Good site - wish I'd been a part of it all

Steve Smith, Australia - Wed, 16 Oct 2002 21:29:06
I have just in the last week or so found this site, and would like to say it is one of the best "Put together" sites I have seen. Realy WELL DONE !! Have just been through the log books and seen lots of familier names, How do you contact them ?? there doesnt seem to be a link. Me ?? Oh, I joined Chantala as a First Tripper in Jan 1962 and left in Jan 69 after getting married.
All the best, Its a great web site
Steve Smith, Who in a previous incarnation was known as "Albert"

David Thomas, UK - Tuesday, October 15, 2002 at 19:56:28
Old loves return. Only served my time 1962-64: Kampala, Bombala, Amra, Nuddea, Landaura, Socotra (P&O wreck). Spent rest of my career giving P&O a wide berth, one or two narrow squeaks. Would love to hear from anyone who sailed with me,esp. Robbie Burns, Yogi (Jogarajah). David Price - if you're the 1st/2nd(?) officer I sailed with on Kampala, sorry I missed you at the 2002 reunion.

James Craig, UK - Saturday, October 12, 2002 at 08:31:59
My dad, George Craig Sailed as an engineer with the BISC on Chandpara, Campara[?], Okhla, Rajula, Dilwara, Paliconda, Mombasa, Jurenda. Without doubt these were amoung the best years of his life and he spoke with great passion and fondness about British India their steamships and their people.

Lorraine Brown, Australia - Wednesday, October 9, 2002 at 04:25:29
Great site - excellent for historical info. May I ask if the Buster J Browne UK is the tug expert - ex Tighes Hill, Oatley, Paddington St Leonards in Australia please ?

Buster Browne, UK - Tuesday, 8 October 2002 11:34:25
Re CORINGA [and Gary McGee's enquiry of August 21], I do think that the colour of the Richard Wagner model is way off, red funnels and green hull for BI ?
Some brief notes on CORINGA: 294 grt, 1481 ihp, launched 17/12/1913 by William Denny & Bros, Dumbarton, for The British India & Queensland Agency Company Ltd (incorporated in 5/1885, with it's primary office at Brisbane, to oversee the ever-expanding BISN interests in Australia), the first intention had been to name her CINTRA. Delivered on 25/2/1914, CORINGA (right) arrived at Brisbane in 5/1914 to take up river/port and coastal towage. With her distinctive twin-funnels she was to dominate the north-eastern waters of Australia, often carrying out notable rescues and salvage work as far away from her home port as the Torres Strait and New Zealand. Requisitioned in 5/1917, CORINGA was sent to the United Kingdom and armed and outfitted at Devonport (as pennant W12) for salvage, rescue, minesweeping and patrol, with a 12-pounder on the bow and a semi-automatic 6-pounder mounted on the engine-room skylight, and manned with the incredible number of 49 crewmen for such a small vessel, working from Devonport, Pembroke, Milford Haven, and Scapa Flow. After war's end, CORINGA towed a German submarine to various ports for exhibition, and later towed U 101 from Leith to an anchorage in the Thames, off the Houses of Paliament. Refitted again at Devonport, she went to Rosyth in 10/1919, leaving there with the Dutch dredger MERWEDE in tow for Singapore, before returning to Brisbane to resume her commercial activities alongside the other 'Inchcape' tugs CARLOCK, FORCEFUL, and FEARLESS. Requisitioned again in 1/1940 by the Admiralty, CORINGA travelled again to Britain to be 'lost in the Atlantic 23/6/1940', with the actual circumstances of her loss never clearly defined.

Tom Hunt, Australia - Sunday, October 6, 2002 at 07:07:32
My name is Peta Nicholls. I am inquiring on behalf of Tom Hunt who was on HMS Chakdina when she was sunk soon out of Tobruk. Are any of Tom's friends looking at this site?

Leslie Carl Mason, UK - Saturday, October 5, 2002 at 19:09:33
Have really enjoyed logging on to the BI site It has brought back a lot of happy memories.

Buster J Browne, UK - Sat, 5 Oct 2002 09:38:16
Firstly, I am not a former BI staffer but do very much enjoy your website. I can certainly answer the request for details of the tug CORINGA posted by Garry McGee of NZ. If you could ask him to email me I'd happily send the data, or I can forward it via you.
Secondly, I have a query, connected with BI, that I would like to post on your site if possible: During the Japanese air-attacks on Singapore a tugboat moored ahead of MADURA took a direct hit and is said to have virtually disappeared - can anyone name this tugboat ? Best wishes from Throsby Creek (and currently home to a rather battered HMS NOTTINGHAM)

Robert Galloway, Australia - Tuesday, October 1, 2002 at 10:20:38
Sailed with the BI from 1956 to 1965, sailing on the Nowshera, Ellora, Queda, Amra and the Karanja. I would like to get in touch with old ship mates.

Hasse Henriksson, Sweden - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 14:03:22
Have read the answer from You, but if I tell You that the steamship Rangoon, built (acc. to bell on wreck) 1863, have sunk outside Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka. She had a lot of china aft in the cargoroom, so I presume that she was going from asia back to europe. Sadly enough, the local "prodivers" of Hikkaduwa, has been using explosives to obtain the metal from the wreck. Her portholes was with 8 sides and made from bronze, not brass. Lenght ova app 30-40 m. Please if anyone can help me, you will get an ever so truly friend.

Jim Caird, UK - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 10:57:20
Latter day Eastern service runs. First ship the returned Teesta 1971. Interesting little saunter out of Chitagong Roads on a sunny Saturday 4th Dec. 1971 as India bombed the hell out of the East Pakistan Port and refinery. But what a week in Penang to follow! Sailed on Nyanza, Chakdina (are you out there Mr Woodall; Zira on it's last Crusader runs (the Eastern Service dream route, for me anyhow) paths crossed again with Capt Raine ex-Teesta; later Strathconan, Strathaird. Huge adventures, spiced a little by the interim years but still interesting yarns for the Grandweans.

David Brady, UK - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 18:52:10
Im looking for a friend I met on Uganda in 1981 or 82 is there anyway i can find any information she is from the usa her name is kirsty duvell and was living in libia at the time where her father worked

William (Bill) Power, UK - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 15:35:06
Served on the following ships: Chindwara, Chilka, Chakdara, Sangola (Temp), Sofala, between 1950 and 1955. Would love to hear from any old shipmates out there!

Tim Dean, Australia - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 13:41:22
I am interested in finding out more about the ship Rajputana. My father was transported to England from Canada during WW2 after completing his flying training. The ship left Halifax on the 26th or 28th March 1941 and was stopped in Iceland because of U-boat activity. can you give me any futher details on this ship, as it would assist me in compiling his biography
[This must refer to another vessel. The only ship with a similar name in BI's fleet was Rajpootana, demolished in 1903 - Editor]

Andrew Cox, UK - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 21:06:29
Grandfather Alfred James GOFF (Bombardier RFA) embarked Feb 1929 from India (where?) for England (where?) HM Troopship Nevasa - have postcard/photo (ref 1085 C R Hoffmann - HMT Nevasa). Are there any records? What route? How far & how long (3 weeks)?
PS I am current Chairman of Governors of the London Nautical School, Stamford Street, London SE1...are there any old boys out there?

Hans Henriksson, Sweden - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 14:01:52
Have dived on a wreck which bell read Rangoon 1863. could you please help me with some information concerning its cargo, destination, what happend to crew etc
[It is unlikely that this bell is that of a BI vessel of the same name. BI's Rangoon was built in 1861 and ultimately was a total loss when wrecked on Cape Finisterre - Editor]

Anthony Balch, Canada - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 04:50:01
I would like to know the routes travelled by Empire Trooper in the period 1948 to 1954

Steve Welham, UK - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 15:42:27
Can anybody give me any more info on the sinking of the Chakdina in 1941, apart from it was hit by aircraft? It is poss a relative was killed aboard whilst being transported from Tobruk. Thankyou for any help.

Gordon Ralph, UK - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 17:08:39
My Father (deceased) was a deck officer with BI so this site gives much more information on where he served with this fine shipping company. His name was Alexander Ralph

Stan Bowles, Canada - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 23:49:54
Completed P&O Cadetship while sailing on Uganda 1970/71 before moving off to 4/O position on Strathbrora . Uganda was a Great Ship - Great Memories!. Even though I did total a car in Malta!!

Edward Dove, Australia - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 05:54:48
My father, James Dove is believed to have arrived in Brisbane, Australia on Torilla 10th Oct 1911 aged 11years with parents, David and Sarah Jane (Fainges) and two brothers, David and Edward.The large Fainges family also.

Jack Grieve, US - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 11:39:48
Would like to correspond with old shipmates

Gukeem Cheing, Canada - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 02:59:07
BILL MCGRATH from Ireland 2 R/O on s.s. Dara on the day of April 7, 1961: would you pls contact me. I was wondering if you know my father who goes by numerous alais. I was very young then so don't really know what name he went by at the time: some names are: TAM Sen Gin or spelt THAM Kleck Gin, THAM Sye Gin, THAM Sej Yuen or THAM Yuen. I believe he was a fitter mechanic at the time. Would be much appreciated. I can be reached at gukeemc@ca.ibm.com.

Gukeem Cheung, Canada - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 02:45:44
Thanks for this site..I've learned lots since I got hold of this website. I am very interested in getting more info about my father who was on board the ill-fated s.s.Dara on Apr. , 1961.. where can I list of names of people found alive or presumed dead?? Would like to know of any BI sea staff that came back alive from s.s. Dara disaster.

Frank McKay, Sweden - Friday, September 6, 2002 at 14:52:29
I joined the B.I. in 1969 as an Engineer Cadet. First trip - Easter cruise 1970 on the Uganda - Very happy memories of that. After two years at South Shields Marine & Technical College, B.I. was amalgamated with P&O GCD. Then joined the s.s.TANDA, ex ARAFURA, transferred in N.Z. to the m.v.HOWRA, shown left, (cabin mate was deck cadet Andy Joss - son of B.I. Capt. Joss.) Following this joined the mighty m.v. HUNTINGDON (N.Z.S.Co.) First trip as Jnr/5th Engineer was on the s.s. NYANZA. After that a succession of N.Z.S. / P&O ships. Would love to hear from any former shipmates.

Shamus Bampton, Australia - Tuesday, September 3, 2002 at 14:15:16
Hi Graham,I just saw your entry,It seems you too are in Oz.Give me a call Bampton 4@big pond .com. In case you forget we sailed on Dwarka -and went to Poplar together!! And sank a few coldies!! Remember Christmas Day at sea 1978!?

Friedhelm Hartwig, Germany - Monday, September 2, 2002 at 13:39:12
Very informative and well styled webpage. I am interested in any informations about passangers and crews from Africa and Arabia since the 1880s especially in connection with the annual Haj

(Navigation tip for recent browsers: double-click anywhere on this page to return to the top)

Tony Brooke, UK - Friday, August 30, 2002 at 20:21:47
I was saddened to hear recently of the death of my old boss from SS Kenya, Jimmy Wheelans. BI was the axis about which Jim's life rotated and he never really recovered after the demise of The Company. I kept in touch with him for quite a few years, but we drifted apart, so to speak, and I lost contact more thro' my neglect than his. He was always a faithful friend. He was always true to his Glaswegian roots and not what you might call "a God fearing man". But if there if a heaven for ex BI Electricians then Jimmy will be sailing its Eastern Oceans now, aboard the "wee B class ship" that was all he ever wanted.

Jim Gillies, UK - Friday, August 30, 2002 at 19:29:04
Trying to trace my G/G/grandfather, David Gillies who was a master mariner with BI he was born 28/29 April 1844 and at the time of his marraige (02 February 1874) gave his address as British India of Liverpool.

Norman Clarke, US - Monday, August 26, 2002 at 20:17:11
I sailed on the Devonia in the spring of 1966 on a school trip to Portugal, Spain and Morrocco. Great memories of a lovely ship.

Dierdre McDougal, Australia - Monday, August 26, 2002 at 07:38:02
My Great Grand parents [John & Catherine Robertson] & 2Daughters Maria & Catherine [Maria was my G/Mother] came to Brisbane Australia on the S.S.Dorunda (pictured left, rounding Kangaroo Point on Brisbane River) abt.1892/3 he was a shipwright it stayed on the Brisbane river till it sailed in 1894. He had sailed with this ship to India many times before coming to Australia.

Duncan Campbell, UK - Sun, 25 Aug 2002 21:00:44
I am trying to trace any record of a shipmaster in the employ of BI about 1885? According to your book BI Centenary 1856 1956 pages 63 & 64 a Captain Duncan Campbell of the "Huzara" went to observe the battle of Tel-el-kebir. I have reason to believe that this may well be my grandfather. According to the records that I have, his Masters Certificate No was 13272 dated 1877. He died in Greenock as Governor of Sir Gabriel Woods Mariners Asylum on December 24th 1915 It is mentioned in his will that he received the sum of £58-3-10 from BISNC in final settlement of his pension, that entry is dated 29th Feb 1916. I realise of course that this is all a long time ago, and that records of this date may no longer exist. Perhaps my question should be directed more to P&O these days, but one can only find addresses for cruise ships etc. As a matter of interest my father also served with BI certainly on the UMTA in June 1916 . I have a letter from Mckinnon Mackenzie 23rd June 1916 on behalf of the Military secretary of the Government of India, to do with matters at the head of the Persian Gulf November 1914. Hope I`m not asking too much, yours sincerely

Thrideo Sukhram, St Thomas - Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 14:09:33
Very interesting , I was searching for a vessel ss Main which I was told that my grandfather sailed from India to British Guiana , I was wondering how true that this vessel carried indentured labourers to the colony, I no longer live in British Guiana, I am a British national by birth, can you throw some light on this inquiry also my grandfather last name was Lokenauth, first name Babu.

Mike Small, New Zealand - Friday, August 23, 2002 at 13:23:42
Thanks to Google I found this site. My father's uncle, Harry Shaw, sailed on the Karapara in the early 1920's but in what capacity I do not know. All I have are a few photos of the ship in various ports of call and one in dry dock in Bombay August 1924. Any further information about this ship or Harry Shaw would be appreciated. NB A fascinating site. Thanks.

Gary McGee, New Zealand - Wednesday, 21 Aug 2002 09:31:24
I am trying to find any details on this ship. A friend of mine has a beautiful little model (pictured right) of the Corringa and is interested in finding out the history and what the final fate of the ship was. We understand the original was built for the British India and Queensland Agency Co Ltd in London about 1913,but that is all we know. Any assistance would be very appreciated. Aug 22: Gary McGee adds: I now understand that the ship worked for many years in Brisbane Australia and was lost in 1940 off the south-west coast of England.
[The BI ship of similar name - Coringa - was a brig-rigged steam ship of 498 gross tons, built in 1860 and sold to Singapore Chinese interests in 1871. The model is almost certainly of another vessel - Editor]

Hazel Tachtatzis, UK - Monday, August 19, 2002 at 15:15:44
My great grandfather's handwritten memoirs record his life as a coastguard in Devon. He mentions the wreck of the Nerbudda in 1886 while he was coastguard at Croyde. What's the story behind the Nerbudda. Your site implies it was sold, in 1911.

Rodney Duarte, Australia - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 08:50:54
Hi, to all the Officers & engineers whom I made friends with and their families in Bombay 1967-1971? Mazagon Dock . I have met a few in england, but lost touch.

David Nunnerley, UK - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 20:04:54
Just discovered this amazing site as I am compiling an Album of the very many cruises both I and my late parents (Jack & Moya) and family did aboard both Nevasa and Uganda between 1970-77 I think I did ten on Nevasa and we were on the ship in December 1974 when everyone learned that it was going to be its last cruise and thus was 'pennanted'. What memories including great New Yearr's Evenings in Dakar Senegal. Will visit again.

Doreen Barker, US - Sunday, August 11, 2002 at 22:44:19
Historical research plus family research

Jack Safarik, US - Thursday, August 8, 2002 at 17:41:50
wish to obtain photographs or prints of Dwarka and Rajula

Les Ottway, New Zealand - Saturday, August 3, 2002 at 06:39:18
I worked with Capt.R.D. (Dick) Crow as Port Accountant at Tanga,Tanzania, just before he went to Malta around 1950. I never realised he was a painter until I viewed this website and I shall now endeavour to get in touch with him at Christchurch,Dorset. His and the other paintings are excellent and a joy to behold. I have travelled on the "Kampala" and the "Uganda" and have a great affection for the British India Line. I wish this website every success.

Bill McGrath, Ireland - Friday, August 2, 2002 at 21:12:17
Have just discovered the site. I was 2nd R/O on DARA that night in April 1961.

Peter Lovell, Australia - Friday, August 2, 2002 at 08:40:43
What a discovery! A real trip down memory lane! My first sea voyage was on the Mantola at age 4yrs 6months ... Albert Docks to Mombasa. I vividly remember the storm in the Bay of Biscay in October '48 ... I learnt to love the sea. How I wish it were possible to travel by sea ... air is not the same.
The ship was stopped in the middle of the Med. .... my Mum thought I had fallen overboard ... they found me down in the engine room!
I was on the last voyage of the Mulbera.

James Warman, UK - Thursday, August 1, 2002 at 22:53:23
A very good web site but you did not list anywhere my grandfarthers Captained vessel "KOINOR" his name was Capt. J. E. Sellars. So please try and put something up. [Koinor was not a BI ship - Editor]

Derek McSherry, US - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 21:09:21
I noted the following abstract from Ralph Wood, Oman - May 4, 2002 at "Did anyone ever go ashore in Muscat? Anyone still got photographs?" Yes! I guess I was one of the few!! I may even have some pictures. If you wish, please provide me with your e-mail address.

Frank Grubbs, US - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 16:07:15
The 3104th Signal Service Battalion, US Army, of which I was a member, sailed from Southampton to Omaha Beach in 1944 aboard the Neuralia. I would like to get further information on the Neuralia for inclusion on our website. http://mywebpages.comcast.net/fgrubbs/3104main.htm Memories, stories, and anecdotes, etc., that shed light on this ship and/or life aboard would be appreciated very much. Photographs either of Neuralia or taken aboard ship would be especially welcome. email: bumper@swcp.com

Roy Jeffries, Australia - Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 06:45:37
I served with the BI Company in the late 50's and sailed on the Nowshera, Nardana and Chanda (pictured right in wartime livery, from the Oct 1970 issue of BI News), I have really enjoyed reading all of the log book comments, they brought many happy memories back for me, thanks all for that. I have recently been doing some family history research and have discovered that my wife's ancestors emmigrated from the UK to Australia in the late 1800's with BI sailing vessels, and I would now dearly like to obtain photographs of the following vessels for our records, they are the Jumna 1888, Bulimba 1887, Chyebassa 1887 and ? Caroba 1887. If anyone can help me obtain any or all of the above I will be most grateful. I look forward to reading ongoing comments in the logbook. My email number is rofra2@bigpond.com

Kevin Donoghue, UK - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 19:54:43
As a new entrant into the wonderful world of Internet, I am astounded at the amount of coverage for the beloved BI.

David Plested, UK - Monday, July 1, 2002 at 08:12:46
Brilliant site! I'm the 2nd son of Sidney James ('Jimmy') Plested who was in Bombay and Colombo (briefly in Calcutta) between about 1933 and 1963 working for Mackinnon McKenzie, and he would quite often take me and my brother into the docks to visit BI ships there; in January 1952 we all went on Dwarka up the Gulf to Basrah (Captain Otto West). Both he and my father are now deceased. I am a professional watercolour artist and from landscape, seascape and architectural subjects I'm starting to branch out into marine things (my brother has one of mine, of SS Canton at Port Said). For authentic reference, I'm trying very hard to get hold of: a) the Perry & Laxton definitive work on the B.I. (out of print, of course) - if anyone reading this has a copy which he/she would consider selling second-hand to me, (or even lending so I can make notes) I'd be very keen to hear from you; b) any of those lovely old "BI News" which I can dimly remember from the early 1960s - especially one with a colour picture of Santhia or Sirdhana in dry-dock in Mazagon Dock Bombay; and another limpidly serene portrait of Dunera sitting in her own reflections. As we were based entirely in Bombay, Colombo, and Calcutta, I'd be very interested in hearing from anyone who has any old photos of those ports showing the installations, and lighters, bum-boats, i.e. the ships being worked. I've been back to Bombay since, but so much had changed that it needs a severe attack of massive artist's licence, to restore the scenes to what it looked like 30 or 40 years ago. I hope at some stage to be able to show some of what I do in the Pictures section. Hope to hear from you.

Mark Schubert, UK - Friday, June 28, 2002 at 21:34:57
I have for many years been searching for information about my late Father, Tony Schubert, who lived in Scunthorpe (UK), and served with BI in the mid to late fifties.I beleive he served as an engineering officer on Chakrata, and possibly Chinkoa,until about 1958. Sadly Dad died suddenly in 1981, but I have never forgotten the wonderful stories of his adventures at sea. If anyone knew Tony, or served with him, I would really appreciate any copies of old photo's etc anecdotes and the like. Thanks for bringing my childhood bedtime stories of B.I. to life. Kind regards, Mark Schubert. ( Age 42 3/4)

Clive Kaine, UK - Friday, June 28, 2002 at 13:44:58
I sailed to and from Hong Kong in the 1950s as an army brat on the Dilwara and Empire Fowey. Later on I worked for P&O after amalgamation, and sailed on Busiris and Talamba in the mid 70s. Good times.

Craig Bennett, UK - Sunday, June 23, 2002 at 13:13:13
I was a 15 year old pupil at school when I went a cruise with the Ayrshire scools.............what an adventure on the Dunera. Malaga, Tangier, Lisbon, Vigo, fantastic experience. I now cruise every year on the liners. I will never forget the dorm bunks on the Dunera, a real adventure at that age.....a great ship, my sister sailed on the Uganda (pictured left in Grand Harbour Valletta, pre-conversion), happy memories

Claudio Leysen, Brazil - Friday, June 21, 2002 at 16:21:27
Very good, please keep on like this. Taking advantage of this time, we would like to offer our shipping agency services in Rio de Janeiro/Brazil

Frank Blewer, UK - Monday, June 17, 2002 at 22:31:43
Further to my last signal I neglected to provide my e mail address which is frank.the.whistle@ic24.net Hope to receive some contact from any of my fathers old shipmates, he is Walter (Wally) Blewer who I believe to have served between about 1941ish until 1948 when he returned to home waters (England) eventualy to join the Pilotage service from 1959 based at Sheerness. As I mentioned in my previous message I will be only to happy to pass on any communications to him.

Eileen Prineas, Australia - Monday, June 17, 2002 at 05:50:28
I am seeking anyone who remembers my father, Edward Crisp, chief engineer on the Mantola.He died as the ship was entering Mombasa on April 13th 1951 and was buried there.

Robin Williams, UK - Monday, June 10, 2002 at 14:03:00
Interested in Haitan WW2 history - was this the ship commandeered by the RN for use in Burma landings 1944?

Jim Friel, US - Thursday, June 6, 2002 at 17:52:27
I remember the BI ships during numerous visits to Bombay in late 60's and early 70's. Radio officer USA.

Alan Smith, Peru - Tuesday, June 4, 2002 at 18:12:29
I was 3rd R/O on the S.S. Chyebassa 1944/1946

Graham Perkins, Australia - Tuesday, June 4, 2002 at 11:02:35
Not from BI, but the Revolution put on to a couple of BI ships in which I had a great time. Dwarka, Zira, Zaida (Vendee)

See also archived logbooks:
2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | May-Dec 2003 | 2002/03 | 2001/02 | 2000/01