FOR ALL THOSE WITH AN INTEREST IN BRITISH INDIA STEAM NAVIGATION (BI)

Quick reference - BI ships mentioned on this page: Agra, Amra, Angora, Arabia, Arankola, Aronda, Aska, Bandra, Bankura, Baroda, Barpeta, Bombala, Bulimba, Canara, Carpentaria, Chakdara, Chakdina, Chakla, Chakrata, Chanda, Chantala, Charles MacLeod, Chilka, Chindwara, Chinkoa, Chupra, Chyebassa, Cranfield, Dara, Daressa, Devonia, Dilwara, Dongola, Dumra, Dunera, Durenda, Dwarka, Egra, Ekma, Ellenga, Ellora, Empire Charmian, Empire Trooper, Fultala, Gamaria, Gambhira, Gamaria, Garbeta, Gharinda, Gracchus, Haresfield, Homefield, Howra, Ikauna, Itinda, Itria, Janus, Jelunga, Juna, Juwara, Kampala, Karanja, Karoa, Kenya, Khandalla, Kilwa, LSTs, Lunka, Madura, Malda, Mantola, Masula, Matiana, Merkara, Modasa, Mulbera, Nardana, Neuralia, Nevasa, Nirvana, Nowshera, Nuddea, Nyanza, Obra, Okara, Okhla, Ordia, Ormara, Orna, Ozarda, Pachumba, Palamcotta, Palitana, Patna, Pemba, Penang, Pundua, Purnea, Queda, Rajpootana, Sangola, Santhia, Sirdhana, Sirsa, Tairea, Takada, Takliwa, Talamba, Talma, Tanda, Taroba, Teesta, Tilawa, Torilla, Uganda, Umaria, Urlana, Vasna, Virawa, Waipara, Warialda, Wild Comorant, Woodarra

This page contains abstracts from the BIship logbook for 2005, which has been signed by visitors from around the world. We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions. We are now using icons to help readability. denotes a specific question and information offered.

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

Rob Kempton-Campbell, UK - Monday, December 26, 2005 at 10:42:57
Seasons Greetings ! Met Tom Barnett in Monmouth. Ref the "Cat and canary insident ( Uganda ). Wonders will never cease !

Kerry Fraser, New Zealand - Sunday, December 25, 2005 at 10:58:37
I have five B.I.S.N.Co uniform buttons made by Firmin in London. The Britania(?) depicts A Queen (not sure which one) in front of a Lion.Any ideas on their history? [You are on the right site here Kerry - Editor]

Neil McLeod, US - Friday, December 23, 2005 at 21:20:07
We (my mother Frances, and my brother Alan and my sister Floramay) sailed on the SS kenya in 1951, I would be interested in the ships log for the dates of departure from England to Kenya (Mombassa) and ports on the way.

Peter Morris, UK - Thursday, December 22, 2005 at 15:15:49
Would like to hear from old shipmates

Brian Parke, UK - Saturday, December 17, 2005 at 19:26:02
Great site which brings back many fond memorys. Joined B.I. in 1962 as Junior Engineer and Sailed on NUDDEA, CHAKDARA, CANARA and CHILKA.Would love to hear from any old shipmates. including Ken Paul, Dave Fox, Nick Jory, Dougy Clark, Jim Meldrum etc. Looking forward to Glasgow Sept.2006

Derek Hargreaves, UK - Thursday, December 15, 2005 at 20:22:21
Reference the query on 2 December by Roger Elliot researching WW2 activities of Dunera. There are about a dozen references to this ship in the BI book of its fleet activities during this period. Extracts are too big to transmit through this channel. If you can locate it the book is called 'Valiant Voyaging' published in 1948 by Faber & Faber. It would be possible to scan the material. You should be warned that early in WW2, Dunera was involved in the allegedly unsavoury transport of European internees from the UK to Australia and official information on this event may be difficult to acquire. However, research at Kew may be rewarding and I for one would be interested if you manage to clarify the wartime life of this fine ship. I spent a fair proportion of my apprenticeship in the Dunera including the invasion of Sicily.

Tony Westbrook, Canada - Wednesday, December 14, 2005 at 23:37:31
There, is always the chance that someone may remember me from the 'Quebec' last sail around Africa through the Suez to Alexandria about 53 or 54

Gordon Hill, UK - Tuesday, December 13, 2005 at 12:19:40
A fascinating site. I was on BI ships from the maiden voyage of Chanda in 1944, until 1946, sailing on Sirsa, Masula and Pemba. Great times ,Great people!

Jon Shaw, UK - Monday, December 12, 2005 at 17:18:07
Some years ago I Dived on a shipwreck some 14 miles north north east of lynas Point, Anglesey , after several dives we recovered several artifacts including a bell, which unfortunately had no name on it. One artifact was dated pre 1942 and the shape and size match that of the Miriam Thomos which sank as a result of a collision with the Vasna

Ali Nasser, Kuwait - Saturday, December 10, 2005 at 15:28:08
I am gald to see your web site and wish you more prograsse.
I was try to find a full info about "PENANG" steameship build in 1862, and came to Kuwait in 1868 and it was the first time. I need to know the the passenger's and the Capitan names.

Jeffrey Newbould, UK - Friday, December 9, 2005 at 21:15:05
Information and if possible picture of the Sir Harvey Adamson lost off the tenasserim coast 1946?? all hands. This ship helped us to ecape the invading Japanese army Jan 1942

Andy Towers, UK - Friday, December 9, 2005 at 11:09:59
Just found this site recently.I worked for B.I./P&O GCD fom August 1969 until made redundant by P&O in September 1983.Ships included Ozarda, Chinkoa, Sirdharna, Juwara, Tanda. Salaams to any old shipmates

Prabhu, India - Monday, December 5, 2005 at 15:36:16
I am doing research migration of labour from India (Coconada, Vizagpatnam, Gopalpure) to Burma (Rangoon) between AD 1850 - 1950. In this BI did a remarkable service for paasengers between these two countries. Kindly provide all information regarding these events.

Bill Hall, UK - Sunday, December 4, 2005 at 12:48:15
Not strictly B.I. shore staff but was in Smith Mackenzies agency in East Africa from 1951 to 1973 and would like to send my best wishes to my many old B.I. friends whom I met during those 22 years.

Roger Elliott, UK - Friday, December 2, 2005 at 14:01:57
Doing research on the Dunera and her world war 2 activities. Also interested in school cruises and the ship which I travelled on.

Benjamin Isitt, Canada - Thursday, December 1, 2005 at 18:57:27
I am a Canadian historian researching troop movements during the First World War. I would appreciate any information on the original TEESTA (built 1903), and specifically any photographs of this vessel. A photo of the TEESTA appeared in BI News, and I would be most grateful to learn of the date and issue in which this photograph appeared. Thanks for your assistance.

Cornelius (Neil) McGuire, UK - Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at 20:20:13
Engineering Officer From 1960 until 1963 I sailed on the ss Nevasa, SS Ellenga, Devonia, MS Sirdhana. I loved my time at sea and still have fond memories. Since then I have been a teacher and worked for Rolls Royce until I retired recently

John Willox, UK Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at 16:03:23
Brings back so many great memories when I see the famous funnel. Major regret leaving the sea.

David Kyle, UK - Saturday, November 26, 2005 at 16:50:31
Sailed on Chyebassa as Radio Officer March 67 to April 68 joined Karachi. Trading between Persian Gulf and Japan. Names can remember, Capts Wrightson and Cunningham. C/O Ted Treacher, 2/O Chris Willis, 2/O Ian Foster,3/O Pete Toft, 3/E/O Brian Ditchburn. Also on Chandpara from April 68 to March 69 on Gulf/Australia Capt Frank Larbey, 2/O Pete Toft

Toni LeGrand, US - Thursday, November 24, 2005 at 16:18:39
I am looking for Bob May - my first love - an engineer on the Kampala 1960 - 1966

Alan Hughes, UK - Tuesday, November 22, 2005 at 23:14:09
Sailed the MS DEVONIA in 1965 from Swansea-Vigo-Malaga-Lisbon-Gibraltar-Swansea. The Bay of Biscay was realy rough,I think I was the only kid that didn't throw up! We got friendly with two sailors Gomez and Charlie...who one day thought it a buzz to pull my sandle off and throw it to eachother.....until...it flew over the side!
I was upset as the only other pair of shoes I had were little black pumps.Gomez got in serious trouble and offered a pair of his winkle pickers......er....no thanks! Hell..I was only 11 . Where is the Devonia now....scrapped? [Yes scrapped, in Genoa, 1968 - Editor]

Udit Singh, New Zealand - Monday, November 21, 2005 at 09:33:24
My grandfather travelled from Calcutta to Fiji in 1915 on the Mutlah - any information or photo's appreciated. I would like to recreate all passenger lists of the 60,000 indentured labourers who travelled to Fiji between 1879 and 1916 and am looking for assistance and sponsors. All this information is available in the fiji archives.

Jane Crane, UK - Wednesday, November 16, 2005 at 07:18:17
Does anyone remember my mother, Angela Prebble, a nurse on the hospital ship Tairea, repatriating troops on the Bombay, Singapore route. She was there over the Christmas 1945 period, and her friend was Beryl Reid. Would love to hear from you as she died in January and I am doing some research from her diaries and photos.

...sign the logbook

John Willox, UK - Tuesday, November 15, 2005 at 20:45:57
My father John Willox served all his life with B.I. He was Chief Engineer.
I joined B.I. as a deck cadet in 1967 on the Chakdara. I also served on the Bulimba, initially on eastern service and laterly on her voyage back to the U.K. Other ships include the Amra [ maiden voyage ], UGANDA, CHAKLA, CHUPRA.

Tasneem Muhammad, UK - Tuesday, November 15, 2005 at 10:49:43
Still looking for any info on my great-grandfather, Alibhai Manji... Recent research revealed that two young brothers, Tayabali and Alibhoy JEEVANJEE boarded a steamer from Jamnagar, Gujarat, India, to Uganda. My great-grandfather was just 12 when he boarded a ship to Uganda from Jamnagar... Any bells ringing??

Alan Hough, UK - Monday, November 14, 2005 at 12:53:25
Nice to see Collin Fletcher, Norman Amos names. Hope your in good health, I hope to get in touch in the future.I last saw Chis Lacey in a night club in Stoke in the late seventies, he was working for BP on a tanker.

William Shields, Australia - Monday, November 14, 2005 at 05:22:25
Joined the BI 1960 First ship was the MS Garbeta other ships include Nuddea, Queda,Chakdara, Carpentaria, Barpeta. Left the BI 1966 coming ashore in Australia.

Vincent Soomessur, UK - Sunday, November 13, 2005 at 23:26:46
travelled as a ten year old on the ss Kenya to Mombasa and a month or so later on the ss Kampala to the Seychelles in1966. A time in my life which left a lasting impression.

Peter Shillito, UK - Sunday, November 13, 2005 at 12:26:57
I sailed in Dunera and Chantala in the early 60s. Having a drink in the Pymont Bridge Hotel I met an ex BI enginer who told me about this web site

Paola St George, UK - Thursday, November 10, 2005 at 16:15:42
I originally posted the information below about my father in September 2003 - some time later a gentleman called ASHRAF contacted me via this site - but his E-mail was not recognised and I could not contact him. If you are Ashraf please contact me again perhaps with an address and I will write. My Father Joseph George Essaye joined BI in 1942 as a Purser on SS. Tilawa. I am trying to find anyone who remembers him or may have any information about him. Dad survived the attack in November 1942 and continued to work on BI ships until 1944. He sailed on the SS.Bandra from Bombay to Calcutta from May to July 1943,SS.Ikauna Bombay to Calcutta August to December 1943 and the SS.Howra from December 1943 until June 1944. My father's name was Joseph George Essaye, but he might have been known as George. Does anyone remember him, or anything about him?

Mike Smith, Canada - Thursday, November 10, 2005 at 16:00:04
Replying to request to make contact.

Claudia Condry, UK - Thursday, November 10, 2005 at 15:51:21
I work as a researcher in the Photograph Archive of the Imperial War Museum London. Last week I had an enquiry from a Mr. W.E. Matthews who sailed on HMS KAROA in July/August 1945 and helped rescue prisoners of war from Changi prison in Singapore (Hospital Ship no.40). Do you have any information on individuals involved in these operations? Is there any literature or are there photographs? [Refers to logbook entry of June 7, 2003]

Allen Yates, UK - Tuesday, November 8, 2005 at 23:25:59
HMS Rajputana lots of pictures of the sinking in the Toronto week end paper in 1941. I am still trying to locate this paper [This information refers to the P&O 16,644 gt passengership of similar name to BI's earlier Rajpootana. See logbook entry of April 13, 2005 - Editor]

Richard Syvret, Jersey - Tuesday, November 8, 2005 at 17:42:21
Served with BI from 1963 to 1974 as cadet to 2nd Officer. Served on Chantala, Kenya, Woodarra, Bankura, Purnea as Cadet and 3rd &2nd Mate on Nevasa, Woodarra, Chakrata. Chakdina and Wild Comorant. Have recently retired as a pilot here in Jersey.

Claudia Condry, UK - Monday, November 7, 2005 at 16:59:50
How do I get in touch with the person researching HMS KAROA's journey from Singapore in July 1945? [If possible, please post any information you have about the Karoa voyage here, so all might see see it - Editor]

Anthony Felice, UK - Sunday, November 6, 2005 at 12:40:40
I travelled on the Dunera in 1940/ariving Liverpool begining of july (about 2nd or 4th). Can any one help in confirming date? We left Gibraltar some days earlier;it had a fair number of soldiers and a large number of civilians on board.
thank you all for your kindness.

Shabia Alimohamed, US - Saturday, November 5, 2005 at 23:50:25
My mother tells me she and her grandparents sailed from Karachi to Bombay to Mombasa probably in 1951 or early 1952. I would very much like to know if during this time BI ships sailed directly from Bombay to Mombasa with "native passengers." If so, or even if the route to and from E. Africa was not direct, was the Santhia one of these ships?

Malcolm MacDougall, Canada - Saturday, November 5, 2005 at 04:13:59
Looking to conntact my late father's friend Mr Allan Divine who served on the S.S. Umaria 1953, as per the only picture that I have of Mr. Divine on the deck with a shipmate, my father Ian Macdougall, also served on HMCS Skeena 1962-65

Bill Davidson, UK - Friday, November 4, 2005 at 16:20:36
Have been offline for a while so glad to be back again. Served with BI/P&O 1956 to 1983 so recognise many former shipmates.Long may site continue.

Ian Davies, UK - Friday, November 4, 2005 at 14:07:00
Great to see John Murray's entry re his time as projectionist on Nevasa. As I left Nevasa for the last time from Venice in October 67 it's unlikely our paths crossed, John - unless you were on board Nevasa in the Summer of 1974 when I took part on a cruise to Leningrad with Carmarthenshire LEA, from the customer side, as it were. Paul Duncan was the Director of Education then(when on earth did the term "Ship's Headmaster" come in, as opposed to "Director of Education" - which term came first and why was it changed?). I mentioned Jim Eades and Tony Case but there was another Assistant D of E I sailed with earlier - Barbara Wadie - remember her? Captain Downer had a kindly, paternalistic approach to us young SOA's and my only summons to his day-room for a minor misdemeanour ended up with firm but friendly warning and a glass of sherry. The only ship's projectionist I remember also worked in the ship's shop aft and sold me a Canon camera (July 1967) for which I paid what seemed a bargain price at the time - but hefty duty on return to Tilbury made it less of a good deal than I'd thought! I think he also worked part-time in the ship's hairdresser's next door to the shop.

Glenys Hardy, Australia - Thursday, November 3, 2005 at 04:58:37
Trying to find Passengers on SS Torilla arrived at Brisbane QLD October 11th 1911. HARDY Family. My Husband is searching for his Fathers Birth Certificate. Also searching for Marriage of his Grandfather Christopher Alfred Hardy.

...sign the logbook

Dick Martin, UK - Wednesday, November 2, 2005 at 19:36:31
I have just discovered the site. I served on the Chakrata and Barpeta as Radio Officer 1962/3/4. I would be pleased to contact some old shipmates names I can remember Roger McDonald, Peter Jordan, Peter Goodwin, Mike Ruddlesden, Buzz Bee, John Thomas, Mike Leatheringham and many others. My long lasting memory was when I had to go ashore in Bombay for something I cannot remember what for but was asked to pick up the mail on my way back when we were at anchor off Bombay, it was monsoon time and the weather not comfortable. On re emabarking the small boat sank away as I was supposed to transfer to the gangway - it was either me or the mail - watching all the shifting chitties blowing away in the wind I had to go and convey this to the Old Man (Willy Howcroft) he took it amazingly calmly anyhow we sailed without anyone being shifted. Most of the guys were heartily pleased they had not been transferred to a Gulf "D". Those were the days. I am retired now after finishing my career with P&O.

Amy Campbell, UAE - Wednesday, November 2, 2005 at 12:31:19
I'm shocked at the Dara, i dove on her this morning and it was amazing.

Carolyn Eaton, UK - Tuesday, November 1, 2005 at 10:13:52
My Father Thomas Woodward served all his working life in the BI from 1929 to 1967. Anyone have any memoies of him for his great-grandson? Also any photos of the Daressa, my father's first command, as Tom has called his new 'Opie' dinghy the Daressa.

Clive Stubbs, UAE - Friday, October 28, 2005 at 16:05:28
Is that Ken Whitehead from Warrnambool??

Andrew Sim, UK - Thursday, October 27, 2005 at 15:45:56
Does anyone remember my father (or grandfather) both named George Sim, or my other grandfather Ted Chambers. All sailed in the 40's and 50's before working ashore in Bombay. I also have BISN company secretary's letters from Bombay from the late 1800's until around 1909

Rajesh Sewak, US - Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at 18:21:34
Can anyone direct me to geting the passanger list on Virawa, that left Calcutta 1902-1906

Ben Gardner, UK - Sunday, October 23, 2005 at 20:51:45
Looking for info on SS Modasa definately in BI fleet in 1925

Rob Gardner, UK - Sunday, October 23, 2005 at 11:14:25
Idle curiosity. Sailed on [HMS] Devonia in 1966. Went to Bergen, Copenhagen and Amsterdam. I always wondered what became of the ship.

Errol Bowers, New Zealand - Friday, October 21, 2005 at 20:12:47
[This entry which refers to the ship Kilwa has been removed at the correspondent's own request]

Manjit Shahi, US - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 19:05:45
I find this site facinating. I travelled in Amra in 1961. I was nine years old that time but I still remember that trip from Dar-e-Salaam to Bombay (now Mumbai)

David Harold, Austrealia - Wednesday, October 19, 2005 at 13:29:54
Many Happy memories as ELO from those BI Years 70-73. After spells on the Nevasa, Uganda, I sailed on the Maiden Voyage & Eastern Service on Merkara. Sahibs of the East, - Great Days!

Paul Carter, UK - Monday, October 17, 2005 at 18:59:35
Reply to John Murray Nevasa..I was a 12yrs lad on NEVASA in Easter 1969..Remember a MAA I think he was, Aussy called SNOWY MIDDLETON, do you remember him..I have some cine film of him and bits of NEVASA inluding It's bell, in colour (No sound) Happy Days.

Robin Cornish, UK - Thursday, October 13, 2005 at 21:18:53
Cadet in BI then on to Trident ending as 2nd Officer ( Followed my father who was a Master Mariner in BI). BSc Nautical studies, with commendation, Plymouth. Then Operations in Lykes lines (US flag) becoming Managing Director - Europe for Lykes Lines. Company bought by CP Ships in which I was Vice President until retirement in 04.2005. My wife & I now have an old renovated farm & barns property in the Correze,France and offer self catering holiday accommodation

Petrina Anderton, UK - Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 23:12:36
My grandfather worked for the company as a boy.Have found letter dated 16th.May 1912 how can i find out which ship he was on. I beleive there was an explosion on board & the ship caught fire but didn't sink. Does the name howrah printed on the company letter head mean anything. [BI owned a Howra between 1922 and 1948. There is no record of an explosion in this ship - Editor]

Marilyn Harris, UK - Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 19:42:28
Thrilled to see the information about SS Nevasa. I was lucky enough to sail on her in 1956 when our family went out to Hong Kong to be with my father who was in the Army. I was only 7 but remember quite a lot about the journey. It was a wonderful part of my childhood.

Tony Sharpe, UK - Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at 08:46:14
Searching for information about ss canton a hospital ship that came form India to Southampton in 1946 [Canton was not a BI ship - Editor]

Natalie Atkins, UK - Saturday, October 8, 2005 at 13:23:37
I have been directed to your site as I am researching my grandfathers time at sea during WW2. He served on the SS Bandra, able seaman gunner, with the Royal Navy. I have in my possesion a gents wallet with the name of the ship inscribed and also the words 'christmas 1942' and was hoping there may have been a story behind that. I have discovered that the ships crew list at this time has been lost/destroyed, but was also hoping to discover any convoys that she took part in and also a picture of her and maybe even what was fitted onto her ie: lewis/machine guns?
Any help would be very much appreciated.

Sue Given, Australia - Saturday, October 8, 2005 at 07:39:08
Could David J. Mitchell please contact me. Lawrie Butler of FIBIS said David may be able to help me, but I cannot find an email address for him. Thanks. Sue in Australia

Brian Maskell, UK - Thursday, October 6, 2005 at 01:08:04
Was on Dwarka 1971 ish for 1 month, paid off with sunburn, but the Grand Hotel proved to be a fine place, then onto Barpeta, and no-one told me that we were going to the Seychelles, still we got the message in the end, then on to Carpentaria and Chakrata. I remember Martyn and the horse saga, blame it on the dice I say. Too many memories to write here , salaams to all my ex friends, and the country worzel accent still remains.

Heather Johnston, UK - Saturday, October 1, 2005 at 17:03:39
I was fortunate to sail on Dunera in 1964 on an educational cruise to casablanca lisbon gibraltar vigo and cherbourg. what a memorable time for me. does this cruise ring a bell with anyone? we were all well looked after by the teachers and crew.

Ron Macdonald, Australia - Friday, September 30, 2005 at 10:51:55
My Great Grandfather, Captain Colin McDonald was aquired by BI with the Australian Currie line in 1913 and Commanded ss Janus (120765), ss Sangola (113974), ss Nardana (141920), ss Gracchus (101745), ss Ormara (136305), ss Gharinda (141926), ss Gamaria (141943) and ss Chinkoa (128943) just to mention a few. My Grandfather Captain Hector Macdonald Joined BI as a cadet/4th Officer in 1913 in ss Janus. His first command was ss Homefield followed by, ss Gurna, ss Ellenga, ss Arankola, ss Egra, ss Nirvana, ss Khandalla, ss Talamba, ss Talma, ss Warialda and ss Tairea. This is not a definitive list however. My Grandfather retired from BI in 1954 at the rank of Commodore.

...sign the logbook

Alan Kendall, UK - Wednesday, September 28, 2005 at 16:36:09
My father John "Albert" Kendall served on the Ekma and Nowshera both pre-WW2 and during the war. He was I believe the 2nd Engineering Officer when the Nowshera was sunk by the German raider "Pinguin" in the S.Indian Ocean in November 1940. He was eventually trasferred on board the prison ship Altmark to Marlag and Milag Nord and spent the rest of the war as a POW there. A long time ago I know but would be grateful to hear from anyone that knew him either on board or in the POW camp

Nicolas Kennedy, UK - Monday, September 26, 2005 at 12:31:03
Passenger on both Mantola and Mulbera - 1950 and 1953, first Mombasa-London, second London Mombasa. Happy childhood memories - Heatwave in Port Sudan - big storm round Cape Gardafui both 1953 I think

Thomas Gray, US - Monday, September 26, 2005 at 04:10:10
I recieved my first experience at sea as a passenger in SS Kampala from Bombay to Mombasa in August of 1968, following a government service term in India. I believe the Master's name was Hamilton. He appeared to command a tight ship, with daily inspections and drills.Shortly after returning home with the memory of that brief transit still afresh, I enlisted in the Navy where I remained for 30 years, most of that time in the Western Pacific where I frequently saw or passed other BI ships in Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia. Good to see someone is keeping the old name alive. It's great history.

Timothy Zub - Monday, September 19, 2005 at 18:43:59
I have a post card of a ship the Gamaria. My mom came to Canada on it she says
I would like some more history of this ship.

Peter Glass, France - Saturday, September 17, 2005 at 20:55:34
Cadet and Deck Officer with B.I. from 1951 - 1963 thence Cargo Dept in London until 1966. Left for pastures newer and greener before the sad decline of B.I.

Ronald Thomas, France - Friday, September 16, 2005 at 18:47:18
Can any one help with any information on Dunera convoy voyage Gibraltar/Liverpool July/Aug 1940 please. I was a passenger and subsequently sailed as a Deck Officer with BI.

John Campbell, UK - Thursday, September 15, 2005 at 21:09:40
Joined S.S. ITRIA 8th February 1949 as Cadet

Kirti Patel, UK - Monday, September 12, 2005 at 12:17:34
Would like to get in touch with Shamb Purchit of the US - I was also born on SS Amra. My email address is kirtipatel@s-h-g.co.uk

James Slater, UK - Sunday, September 11, 2005 at 20:43:38
Any former BI Engineer or Electrical Officers out there who are NOT members of the B.I. Engineer Officers Association can contact me. Details on the site. We have been in existance since 1923. At this moment there are 249 members world wide.

Eric Moar, Australia - Sunday, September 11, 2005 at 05:28:23
Reply to Steve Moss :- Yes I sailed with you on the Chakdina during that time.(good to hear of you after all this time) I joined her in Liverpool for a period of 18 months when she was back in UK 1971. I still have the crew listing / BI Magazine from that time. My email address is eric.moar@riotinto.com I have been in Western Australia since 1974.

Ken Whitehead, Australia - Sunday, September 11, 2005 at 04:36:22
My wife found the BI site searching for other things. Great to see the old BI has not completely disappeared. I was deck cadet and 3/O from 1962 to 1969. For Lou Chambers, when I was a cadet, I sailed with Harry when he was C/O on the Bombala - he probably remembers me as the one who did not always 'get it right'. Robin Knox Johnson was 2/O and Frank Everett Captain. Ah - those were the days!

Sandy Warman-Johnston, UK - Saturday, September 10, 2005 at 22:06:44
I wonder if there is anyone who can help me with additional information on my Great Grandfather, John Hall WARMAN. I am told he was the commander of SS Ellora in 1883, then SS Agra 1885. I understand his masters certificate number is 4735.
Any details at all would be appreciated.

Dewi Wowor, South Africa - Saturday, September 10, 2005 at 20:52:42
I got a original certificate of share of East India Steam Navigation Company Limited siged on 24 may 1859. is it a valuable item now?

James Nicolson, UK - Friday, September 9, 2005 at 10:37:46
Joined Socotra in Tilbury in 1964 then sailed on Dumra Chakdina Santhia Kampala Kenya Chakdara Sirdhana Chantala Teesta Dumra again, Carpentaria then it all went down hill on Manapouri Strathtay Strathnevis left M.N 1977

Jeff Appleyard, UK - Friday, September 2, 2005 at 19:46:40
I was about 2years old,when i was brought to the UK from hong Kong 1939/40? on the "Dunera" it is interesting to read about her.

Vicky McKenzie, UK - Friday, September 2, 2005 at 07:54:02
Am researching family tree and would like to see passenger list of Bulimba which sailed from UK to Queensland in 1887. My great great Uncle James Calam and his family were on board, emigrating from Yorkshire to Australia. Does anyone know how I could see this list?

Glynn Ford, Australia - Thursday, September 1, 2005 at 11:14:22
I returned to Tanganyika in 1952 as a 16 year old on the Madura, while we were in port at Mombassa her sister ship the Matiana was moored astern on her way to the Uk and ahead was the Uganda on her maiden voyage from the UK, it was quite a party

Peter Williams, UK - Wednesday, August 31, 2005 at 11:47:11
Joined Chindwara Feb. 1952. Would like to hear from others who sailed on her from then until 1955.

Sue Given, Australia - Wednesday, August 31, 2005 at 07:04:40
A longshot, but I am looking for information on an Edward Cotes Taylor West. He was born 1902 and by 1928 was a Master Mariner. He spent most of the 1920s on the BISN line and was on the 'Calcutta/India run' from England I guess? He was a RN reservist in WWII and died in 1993 in London. His father also spent many years with the BISN line and died in India when Edward was only 14. Am I asking the impossible or does anyone have any info/pictures/memorabilia (for copying) please.

...sign the logbook

Steve Moss, UK - Saturday, August 27, 2005 at 21:26:11
sailed on Chakdina 1970 to 1971 any old friends who sailed with me?

Russell Austin, UK - Saturday, August 27, 2005 at 20:39:50
Would like to get in touch with old contemporaries who sailed with BI between 1948 and 1956

Christopher Deakes, Exeter - Wednesday, August 24, 2005 at 13:56:48
For Brandon Deakes. Re yr question of 2 Feb which I have only just seen, yes, I think we probably have a connection. My grandfather came from the Andamans, from which he was taken to Changi where he died a few weeks before WW2 ended. He had 2 sons from his 1st marriage, George and Horace (my line), and other children from his second, when he lived at Mount Harriet. Does this fit?

Kevin Patience, UK - Tuesday, August 23, 2005 at 09:49:27
I have recently completed the manuscript for a book on Shipwrecks and Salvage on the East African Coast. The number of vessels exceeds 200 of which 15 are BI ships that either ran aground, caught fire or had engine failure. I would be pleased to hear from anyone with knowledge of any other mishaps.

Clive Nicholls, UK - Monday, 22 Aug 2005 20:47:38
[Regarding the Aug 15, 2005 entry] My father embarked on the Ekma on Sunday 9th September 1945 and sailed for Madras on the Monday.
Arrived Madras 16th Sept to a wonderful reception. He left for Bombay on the 18th Sept – not sure if he was still on the Ekma. 24th Sept he left for Bombay on the Deccan Queen. This does not make sense but is in his diary !!!!!!! Then boarded the Carthage and sailed 28th Sept – entered Red Sea 2nd Oct . Suez 5th Oct. – Gibralter 11th Oct. – arrive 14th Oct – Southampton I presume !!

Derek Hargreaves, UK - Sunday, August 21, 2005 at 09:34:10
Regarding the request of Abdul Rauf Batti for the name of his father's ship. Shortly before the date of his father's letter there were three BI ships sunk by torpedo in the NW Indian Ocean. These were 'Haresfield' on 9.9.42 on passage from Aden to Calcutta, 'Cranfield' on 23.11 42 off the island of Socotra steaming in a NW'ly direction and 'Tilawa' also on 23.11.42. Only the 'Tilawa' being 3 days out of Bombay was proceeding towards East Africa and carrying over 900 passengers. His father was, almost certainly in this ship. An account of the sinking, which required two torpedoes and the involvement of HMS Birmingham which picked up and returned over 600 survivors to Bombay, can be found in the book 'Valiant Voyaging'.
The 'Karanja', taken over by the Royal Navy, was sunk by bomb off Algiers some 11 days previously which confirms the Editor's information.

A Higgins, UK - Saturday, August 20, 2005 at 18:31:39
Am looking for image of the Neuralia for a friend of mine whose uncle sailed on her to India circa 1926 (army posing) Many thanks Best luck with fine website.

Arthur (Bill) Sonneborn, US - Thursday, August 18, 2005 at 20:30:24
I sailed on the Karoa from Oran, Algeria, to the Salerno beachhead about September 3, 1943. The Karoa seemed to be the slowest ship in the invasion convoy.

Joe Hillier, UK - Wednesday, August 17, 2005 at 10:43:12
Just found the site, but with a lot of water under the bridge since I was on a BI ship I don't know if I will remember anyone or if they will remember me. If my name rings a bell let me know.

Francis Clive Nicholls, UK - Monday, August 15, 2005 at 10:20:36
My father was brought home from a Japanese camp on this ship in 1945. I am trying to find out more information.

Amanda Davies, UK - Sunday, August 14, 2005 at 19:38:45
I wanted to find out more about my grandfather, James Garroway Kilner, who I believe was a BI captain on the Calcutta-Rangoon run up until about 1928 when he was retired due to ill-health. I can't find anywhere on this site to look up former staff. [BI staff records are difficult to come by but you could try The National Maritime Museum, Greenwich - Editor]

David Hurst, UK - Thursday, August 11, 2005 at 20:22:28
Seeking information on passengers Thomas who sailed on ss Waipara arriving in Australia 30 August 1915

Janine Bounden (nee Watson), UK - Wednesday, August 10, 2005 at 08:47:42
What a fantastic time i had aboard ss Uganda as a 15yr old, it was a school trip (Silver Royd school) We sailed from Dundee to Bergen taking in several places and Fjords. We had lots of fun, the disco , games and cinema were great. I still have the ss uganda badge, the certificate and wonderful memories. THe captain was a very nice chap as i recall. Anyone who was on that cruise please get in touch. Met a group of lads i think they were from Scotland but only have their first names, Stuart Tom, Davy, Ian and John what a laugh we had.

Abdul Rauf Batti, India - Tuesday, August 9, 2005 at 20:24:59
I found after the death of my father in his possession British India Steam Navigation Company Ltd. paperwork which was framed by him, on it it states:
"This is to certify that Fazaluddin ------ was a passenger booked to Mombasa ------- by a vessel which was lost by enemy action. All the passenger's personal baggage, belongings and papers, passport etc, were lost and it is requested that if possible, a dublicate passport and/or domicile papers and permit may be issued.
Pro. MACKINNON MACKENZIE & CO.
Agents.
it was issued on 11th january 1943 in Bombay.
i need information as to the name of vessel he was in. Iremember him saying their ship got torpedoed in the night by the Japanese, and somthing about ship called Karanja, but not sure. If any one can provide with any info would appreciate. [This ship was not Karanja - Editor]

Barry Campbell, Australia - Tuesday, August 9, 2005 at 07:53:37
Trying to find details of ship Arabia about 1871. My ancestor John Campbell, born Scotland about 1826 may have been a crew member.

Paul Moyce, UK - Monday, August 8, 2005 at 11:08:49
In response to entry of Christine White, France - Monday, March 21, 2005 at 17:25:42. My father Frank J Moyce died in london in 1970, I would love to hear infomation or stories that you have to tell of him- please email paulmoyce@msn.com

Janine Bounden (nee Watson), UK - Sunday, August 7, 2005 at 11:27:08
I was on a school trip on ss Uganda, we went to Norway, stopping off at various locations, what a brilliant memory we had such a wonderful time and made lots of new friends, sadly lost some of their addresses. But if anyone who was on the cruise in 1976/77 (time flies) and wants to get in touch please do so. I still have the log book diary we were given to fill in, one of the best nights was when the captain came to our disco. What a nice chap he was.

Phil Couper, UK - Saturday, August 6, 2005 at 00:08:10
Great site, very informative, lived in Malta 1960/63 whilst My Father in Royal Navy, took interest in the de-armed Sea-Bird LST's and Charles MacLeod moored Sleima Creek, the Royal Naval sister's kept arment, Dad serving on Striker & Messina also in Malta.

...sign the logbook

Yvonne Legay, France - Thursday, August 4, 2005 at 16:50:36
Have been searching information about the Neuralia and came across your site. Congratulations, great work. My mother sailed on this ship from Gibraltar to Jamaica during World War II.

Braz Meneses, Canada - Monday, August 1, 2005 at 04:05:35
I am researching the participation of Goanese staff at all levels (including doctors, musicians, etc) on BI ships during the years 1925 and 1955 on the East Africa-Goa Bombay route. Any information of tips for further searches are welcome.

Tom Kelso, UK - Monday, August 1, 2005 16:42
According to H R "Sailor" Smith, then Chief Officer, in Durenda, about 1954, this ship had been in either London or Tilbury during the Dunkirk evacuation and was required to provide its lifeboats for the evacuation. The ship never had them returned, and four lifeboats were supplied from shoreside stocks, one of which was of double diagonal build of teak, and the other three were carvel-built. The teak boat had GRW cut in with dimensions etc on the stem. Either this boat or the other three, according to Dick came from the P&O Rawalpindi (probably when converted to armed merchant cruiser and which was sunk in action), and the other(s) came from a ship, which for years I thought was Culebra, but that name does not figure in BI or P&O fleet lists. Dick had a very definite preference for the teak boat in terms of its boat-sailing qualities, so this might have been the ex-Rawalpindi boat, since he was originally a P&O cadet! However, Durenda's winches found the carvel boat much easier to lift! I would be most interested if any of the many others who enjoyed lifeboat sailing, probably at its best in Durenda) with Dick can elaborate on the provenance of Durenda's boats. Caution: GRW could well have turned out many such lifeboats.

Eric Voorn, Netherlands - Sunday, 31 Jul 2005 13:25:28
As shown in the pictures I have in restoration the GRW Ltd N° 603 lifeboat. I have tried to contact Garden Reach Workshops in Calcutta but they are too busy [to reply]. This boat is double diagonal teak. Has been made at the Workshop. I picked it up at a boatyard in Holland, whereas the former owner left it with debts. I am trying to make it useable in altered design as to [modern] taste. [Many thanks Eric. The boat is double skinned, carvel built. Does anyone have information that might lead Eric to the origins or use of this boat? - Editor] [This entry has been amended to remove a reference to clinker construction - Editor]

StClair (Seamus) Beatty, UK - Sunday, July 31, 2005 at 00:58:31
Has anyone any photographs of Bombala and Kampala they would like to share?

Braz Menezes, Canada - Saturday, July 30, 2005 at 15:57:57
Very interesting site. I was researching family history. Many sailings on BI Line Goa-Mombasa between 1925-1955. Thank you.

Mary Watson, UK - Saturday, July 30, 2005 at 12:36:11
What a pleasure to find the site. Passenger on the Dwarka and the Dumra between 1968 and 1973. Anthony Henley? Ali Eames? Names ring any bells?

Peter Jacoby, US - Friday, July 29, 2005 at 18:00:57
I was a passenger on your ss Karanja in October, 1971, a 3-week voyage sailing from Durban, South Africa, to Bombay, India. I have no record of actual sailing date or voyage number, but remember that, after leaving the Seychelles, the trip was moderately affected by a passenger jumping overboard due to the hostilities between India and Pakistan at the time. I am trying to locate one of my traveling companions on the voyage and hope that perhaps your records may still include a passenger manifest for this trip. There were very few first/second class passengers on the trip who embarked in Durban for the entire trip (I was traveling with my wife, Margaret E. Judd). The fellow we are hoping to find would have been using a Kenyan or South African passport, first name Richard (DOB c. 1947). I realize this request is certainly unusual after so many years, but would greatly appreciate any information you may have retained, even a last name would be a great help.

Gita Prasad, Fiji - Thursday, July 28, 2005 at 10:59:09
I would like to know more about the the ship named Sangola II which brought the indentured labourers to the Fiji Islands in 1908

Mary Watson , UK - Tuesday, July 26, 2005 at 17:54:25
Sailed on Dwarka and Dumra many times in the indian Ocean and the Gulf, circa 1964-1973. I will visit again.

Kit Withers, New Zealand - Monday, July 25, 2005 at 00:14:27
I'd like to contact Wendy Pountney, Henry Pountney who attended this function as they may be related.

Bob Jenkins, Australia - Sunday, July 24, 2005 at 13:32:45
I found a nice old pen knife from this shipping line. The years 1856 - 1956 were on the back and the flag and the words "Travel & Ship" on the front. Nice to be able to find so much information here.

Shamb Purchit, US - Friday, July 22, 2005 at 21:40:42
I was born on ship Amra

Mary Watterson, Canad - Friday, July 22, 2005 at 16:38:13
Wayne Dutcher wrote July 2001 regarding his wife's grandfather Lionel Dale Douglas -- please send me a copy of his email -- it is no longer available on the website
Thank you [You will still find it on http://www.biship.com/logentries1.htm - Editor]

Robert James MacDonald, Canada - Thursday, July 21, 2005 at 15:56:40
Excellent site! I will be visiting often!

Gordon Macneill, Australia - Thursday, July 21, 2005 at 09:13:45
A wonderful site that brings back lots of good memories and good company in better days.

...sign the logbook

Jenny Kennish, Australia - Thursday, July 21, 2005 at 00:22:44
I am looking for the passenger list for the Karanja sailing from Bombay to Mombasa in June 1954. In particular I am looking for Australian Passengers on British Passports for Jeffrey & Elizabeth Walter my parents. If you have these lists is it possible to obtain a copy for my records.

Russell Austin, UK - Thursday, July 14, 2005 at 10:12:02
I served with BI from 1947 to 1958 from cadet to 2nd Officer in many ships but mainly Bombay-based. On leaving BI Ispent eight years with East African Railways and Harbours after whi 23 years were spent in London with MoD. I would be glad to make contact with any contemporaries I sailed with between the years 1947 to 1958. I sailed in a number of ships including all the Gulf "D"s, Kenya, Amra, Carpentaria, Chakdara and various cargo ships.

Alan McFarland, US - Tuesday, July 12, 2005 at 17:03:37
During the Colonial era 1930-45 (Tanganyika Territory) I spent a happy childhood that included exciting trips aboard the Malda, Matiana, Mulbera and Madura.

Raymond Knight, Australia - Monday, July 11, 2005 at 00:28:38
I found your site the other day as a vintage port member I was looking for a BI person by the name of Ray Donking we sailed together on union stem in NZ. He went back to UK and we lost touch. If any one knows of his whereabouts (He had a computer type shop in Gateshead last I heard) can you pass the message on to him

Stuart Brown, Canada - Saturday, July 9, 2005 at 22:25:49
Astonished to find this site while surfing!! Apprentice at Doxford / Sunderland Forge. Sailed on Chanda. Sirdhana. Jelunga. Tairea. emigrated to Canada. Sailed the Lakes then settled down....

Arshad Kamal Khan, US - Saturday, July 9, 2005 at 00:47:22
My grandfather and my father travelled with BI ships from 1909 to 1961. I have some records of my family. Ships were ss Tairea, Takliwa, Karanja, Kampala

StClair (Seamus) Beatty, UK - Friday, July 8, 2005 at 05:58:12
Sailed as 3rd Mate Chakla 1964, Kampala 64/65 Bombala 66/67 would love to hear from any of the old crew. Still am in contact with friends made in Perth all those years ago. Have photos would like to share.

Tony Harris, Australia - Saturday, June 25, 2005 at 09:08:50
Re Derek Hargreaves's signal of 14-2-2005, I was 3rd Officer on the Egra at the time and totally agree that Freddy Ellis and Buster Marshall were great shipmates and a pleasure to sail with. I wonder if Derek remembers loading extra coal ballast in Aden with the very dry and dusty coal being loaded down through the troop decks ? It was a good thing that the troops were the Mauritian Pioneer Corps as Australian or British troops would have mutinied! All you could see of the troops was the whites of their eyes and teeth!

Sue Given, Australia - Thursday, June 23, 2005 at 10:00:25
Am trying to find a BISN ship that would have been in Calcutta, India around August 1916. Edward Woodcote Taylor West died 13 August 1916 at the General Hospital, Calcutta, India. He spent most of his life as a sailor on BISN ships. At least till 1902 when his records just stop. However, I believe he was still sailing. His wife was still in England when he died. His son was also a merchant mariner and in Calcutta in 1926, so he may also have sailed with BISN. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. Sue in Australia P.S. Great site.

Kamar (Zoom) Zaman, UK - Tuesday, June 21, 2005 at 12:47:26
I sailed on Chyebassa and Chinkoa 1964-1967. Great memories about the company and everything it stood for

Eddie Eccleston, India - Friday, June 17, 2005 at 18:42:32
Great website! looking for Simon Harwood & Frank Chambers. Anyone who remembers me, do get in touch with me. Hoping to be at the Colombo reunion, May 2006. Cheers!

Peter Morris, UK - Friday, June 17, 2005 at 09:56:45
I sailed as a deck officer on Chindwara, Uganda, Juna, Bulimba, Sirdhana, Bombala, Chinkoa, Tekoa, Karanja, Wild Auk & Huntingdon during the late 60s & 70s and would like to hear from old shipmates

C Veronica de France, Netherlands - Wednesday, June 15, 2005 at 06:17:14
In Juli 2004 your recommandation toward the volume of 'Maritime Enterprise and Empire' by J. Forbes Munro turned out to be a good guide and I gather when after reading this marvelous work one should not have any questiones about Sir William Mackinnon and his Business Network, unfortunately I still have a few and there for is it possible to inform me how to contact the author? Excuse my errors as English is not my native languache; took me more then a year to read this book (twice)but the effort was very rewarding. [Contact with the author can, I believe, be made through the publisher Boydell & Brewer - Editor]

Jeffrey Hoey, UK - Tuesday, June 14, 2005 at 21:27:51
Very interesting site. I am trying to find out information on 3 ships. The Dilwara, Dunera and i think the other is the Neuralia. My uncle recently passed away and i found photographs of these three ships. Could anyone help with any information please, I would be most grateful for any replies. [The ships section of this site has outline information - Editor]

Frank Humphries, UK - Monday, June 13, 2005 at 21:30:31
I sailed home from Hong Kong on MS Dilwara in May 1953, I was only six months old so I have no idea what the ship was like only an old postcard.

Brian St Vincent, Australia - Sunday, June 5, 2005 at 14:01:45
Joined Canara 1956 j e/o also sailed Sirdhana Kampala Fultala Chakdina Itinda
resigned (drunk and disorderly) about 1963

Colin Fletcher, UK - Saturday, June 4, 2005 at 23:13:48
Norman Amos, Alan Hough. Where is Chris Lacy? 40 years is quick in passing.

Kirti Patel, UK - Friday, June 3, 2005 at 10:48:19
I was born on SS AMRA cruise ship in May last week 1954. My paraents are dead now, but i would like to know more information on my birth, who was captain on the ship, Doctor who delivered me ect..ect. Would love to hear from anybody who knows this sailing was from Bombay to Mombasa......

...sign the logbook

Stclair (Seamus) Beatty, UK - Monday, May 30, 2005 at 02:18:57
Great to see the interest in the old company which gave me so many happy memories.

Keith Wilson, UK - Thursday, May 26, 2005 at 15:50:46
I'm looking for information on the SS Ellenga please.

Lees Borland, US - Thursday, May 26, 2005 at 09:44:32
My Great Uncle Robert Thom was First Mate on board the Palitana in the late 1800s. He died in about 1901 while home in Great Britain preparing to take his certification in Steam. My father, as a boy of about 10, saw the Palitana at Calcutta in the year 1912. I would enjoy hearing from anyone who has information on the Palitana.

Joseph Williams, UK - Wednesday, May 25, 2005 at 19:36:21
Thanks your e-mail regarding my enquires of April 28 2005,June 26 & Aug.22 2004 regarding my Uncle William Owen Williams 2nd.Mate Of SS Okara.
I have found on the Internet under 'Clydbank Ships Data' the following:-
Okara Built 1895
Passenger Cargo Ship.
Propulsion steam, triple expansion, 10 knots.
Tonnage 5291 G.R.T.
Breadth 50.6
Draugt 24.7
Sunk 06/05/1923.
Remarks: Foundered in a cyclone in the Bay of Bengal.
An SOS signal was received by two ships the ANGORA & TAKADA.
Both vessels made for the position, but when 9 miles away they heard only a flickering SOS then nothing.They realised she had sunk, taking with her a total of 81 crew. One interesting photograph I have is a picture of my Uncle taken when he served on the 'TAKADA', the very ship which went to the 'OKARA's rescue.

David Ledger, UK - Wednesday, May 25, 2005 at 09:54:34
It's good to see names from my past years with the BI, now retired after 23 years with Lloyds Register. It was a great sea going life.

Brian Warburton - Wednesday, May 25, 2005 at 07:50:40
Peter Paget, Are you Peter Jeremy Spencer Valentine Paget sailed Woodarra 1958 third Officer I think Good to hear from you, we had some good times in Oz. Why not join the BI chat group on Yahoo.

Joseph Luis Garcia, Gibraltar - Monday, May 23, 2005 at 21:54:51
I belive there is a Gibraltarian captain or first officer. as I Havent got an E mail I will give you my address 11, Tankerville House, Tarik road, Gibraltar.

Don Hellings - Saturday, May 21, 2005 11:50:25
I am trying to trace the sailing dates of HMT Dilwara during 1953 and 1954.
I travelled to Japan on her in 1954 and have forgotten the actual date of landing in Kure. Can you advise me on where to search? [The Official Log book kept by the Public Record Office at Kew might contain the information you need - Editor]

Peter Henry, Australia - Wednesday, May 18, 2005 at 03:12:38
Love the site, however, am trying to find plans for SS TAROBA.

Norman Amos, UK - Tuesday, May 17, 2005 at 22:44:33
Alan Hough, where have the last 40 years gone?. God Bless

Dave King, South Africa - Tuesday, May 17, 2005 at 12:41:05
Being new to the www, I find it facinating to recal such fond memories. Easy to use, and above all, everything one could wish for. Thanks.

John Murray, UK - Sunday, May 15, 2005 at 11:35:46
I sailed on Nevasa as projectionist and photographer, from 1968 until early 71
when family commitments forced me to leave. I can't say that I ever had a cruise that i did not enjoy. The crew were smashing, from Capt Downer, Brian Biddick, who sadly died whilst serving on Uganda a then hospital ship, in the Falklands Tony Case, Jim Eades.

Robert Readman, UK - Wednesday, May 11, 2005 at 12:18:05
Seeking contact information for Slim Doman, John Summers and Vince Horsford.

Peter Morris, UK - Wednesday, May 11, 2005 at 10:39:04
Brings back memories!

John Page, Australia - Wednesday, May 11, 2005 at 04:15:55
Remarkable site. Am seeking information on Gordon Thornton (Dornie) and Brian Long (chick), we served together as apprentices on Chantala 1954 to 1959.

Pravin Jivan, UK - Tuesday, May 10, 2005 at 22:13:31
trying to find pictures and details about ss Tilawa which was sunk in nov 1942

Robert Bliss, Australia - Tuesday, May 10, 2005 at 07:36:36
I am looking for info on the SS Maple. My Great Grandfather, William George Kelson, Greaser, died in service on her in 1916 at Calais.

Eileen Avern, UK - Saturday, May 7, 2005 at 23:37:25
Found this comment re Captain Avern dated 1880
Persian Gulf: The British steamer Patna was traversing the waters of the when around mid-night the captain and several other members of crew all saw two enormous glowing wheels each estimated to be 500 to 600 meters in diameter appeared underwater on each side of the ship. The wheels were spinning, one on each side with the spokes touching the ship. The sighting lasted 20 minutes and was witnessed by Captain Avern, third officer Manning, and Lee Fort Brace.

John Murray, UK - Tuesday, May 3, 2005 at 18:16:09
I sailed on both the Uganda and Nevasa for several years and would like to know if there is a way of contacting ex shipmates from these ships. In particular Bill Patterson, chief engineer, Ennis Taylor stewardess and in fact any one who sailed between 68 and 71. I was the cinema projectionist but then saw an entry by Ian Davies - remember me Ian? Referring to Jim Eades, Tony Case, Paul Duncan, I also remember Dave Cash and Chrisd Sample. I was also on the Russian cruise. I also had to leave against my will. Keep writing Ian.

Peter Paget, UK - Sunday, May 1, 2005 at 17:47:55
Astonished to find my name on your site while researching family. CHINDWARA (1950), EMPIRE TROOPER, CHILKA, GAMBHIRA, IKAUNA, CHILKA (again), UGANDA, PACHUMBA, AMRA, DUMRA, ARONDA, CHANDA, OKHLA, ITINDA, PEMBA, NARDANA, ORDIA, ITINDA (again), WOODARA, KENYA, then Orient Line in 1960 after merger with P&O. Remember me to Henry Severs, Terry Lilley, Nick Jolly, Brian Warburton and any others with long memories. Still sailing our wee Frances 26 between Orkney and Weymouth!

Tony Bloxham, Canada - Sunday, May 1, 2005 at 01:51:31
I have visited your site a number of times and found it of interest for me. I worked in Karachi and Chittagong in the early 1960's and was aboard a number of your ships as a visitor, after meeting some of your Officers. I have fond memories of happy times, sharing drinks and laughs together. Alas, names of ships and people are long forgotten. Best wishes.

Ernest Wilson, UK - Saturday, April 30, 2005 at 13:26:23
In very early April 1945 I was serving in Burma and was given a leave to Simla in India. I, together with other troops, was being transported across the Bay of Bengal from Ramree Island to Calcutta on one of your ships which was in collision with a much larger vessel and sank in a very short time. There were only 18 survivors. unfortuneatly I did not see the name of either ship. Will this incident be in your company records. Any information would be appreciated.

Ismail Padia, South Africa - Friday, April 29, 2005 at 20:17:21
I travelled on the following ships ss karanja , ss kampala ss santhia from durban to bombay and back many times. I simply loved these mighty ships ships of the past and will never forget the enjoyment of journying in them.

Joseph Williams, UK - Thursday, April 28, 2005 at 20:33:02
Further to my logbook entries of June 26 & August 22 2004, I have discovered the following:-
My uncle, William Owen Williams was Second Mate of the S.S. Okara, which was lost with all hands in the Bay of Bengal, India, on May 5th 1923. He was at that time 23 years of age. I would be very interested to discover any information concerning the loss.

Keith Wales, Australia - Wednesday, April 27, 2005 at 16:16:57
In September 1931 my great-grandfather left for China on board the S.S. Karanja from the port of Durban in South Africa

Jezza Michael, Australia - Monday, April 25, 2005 at 12:10:07
I was unable to find anything on the following two ships HMS Dunera Also HMS Ausonia i would appreciate any information on both of these ships thank you [You could search on Dunera using the search engine on the home page of this site - Editor]

Peter Thompson, UK - Friday, April 22, 2005 at 16:16:24
I sailed on the Nevasa from Southampton to Singapore via the Suez canal whilst in the RAF in autumn 1957. Quite an experience - Anybody else out there remember that trip?

Clair Winkworth, UK - Thursday, April 21, 2005 at 13:16:22
I am looking for my family on my dads side

Scott Wilson, UK - Monday, April 18, 2005 at 16:06:33
I have been given a task by my girlfriend & her family. I am trying to find about the TSS KAMPALA (1947-1971).I am trying to find pictures of the ship being built, working, scrapped, Passenger list, Ship/deck plans, Film Footage, any staff and passengers how was on the ship back in 1967-1968 I would love to here from you. Basically any information on this great ship would help me in my quest. Does any one know the name of the band how played on the Kampala back in 1967-1968?

Donald Skipp, Canada - Monday, April 18, 2005 at 02:04:04
My trip from Singapore July 1948 to Liverpool, was highly exciting having witnessed, among other things the rescue of a 3yr old girl who fell from a deck railing, slipping from the arms of a Sergeants wife who was knitting at the time. Someone had called to her and the girl fell as the woman turned to see who called. We Corporals and lower ranks were just coming off from boat drill when the ships whistles went off, and the ship made a wide turn to starboard, to shelter the rescue area from a school of porpoises,heading our way off the starboard quarter.This girl was in the water at least 20 mins. before the rescue crew got to her, and miraculously the flag signal that she was alive was loudly cheered. We were re-mustered to boat stations for a head count and eventually got under way. An enquiry resulted in the Sergeant having to pay for the rescue due to disregarding ships orders. As I was an R.A.F.police Corporal, I exercised inmates of the Brig, an enjoyable task up in the Fo'castle, where we could watch flying fish break water right at the bow, and schools of fish swimming alongside .We went ashore at Aden, and I remembered not to get too close to the camels, and how grey everything looked there. Altogether a very pleasant trip...thank you !! - 3037624 Cpl. Skipp [This account refers to Dilwara - Editor. Thank you Donald)

...sign the logbook

Maurice Van den Bulck, Canada - Wednesday, April 13, 2005 at 06:56:28
Am trying to find a web site that lists the crew members of the HMS Rajputana which was lost on the 13th of April, 1941 [BI did own a similarly named ship - Rajpootana - 1874-1902. Try references to P&O's Rajputana - Editor]

Nick Pennington, UK - Tuesday, April 12, 2005 at 17:42:48
Radio Officer Chakdina 1961-1963 and Devonia 1964-1967

Shirley Saundry, Ireland - Sunday, April 10, 2005 at 16:07:37
Looking for SS Lanka, 1908, without success until I found your site. Now I think it was a mis-spell and most likely to be SS Lunka. Dates fit. Very interesting site.

Trev Jones, UK - Saturday, April 9, 2005 at 15:49:25
Wonderful memories and a wonderful website. Sailed on the Uganda in 1968 as a schoolboy with about 900 other children from Birmingham, UK around Norway & the Fjords.

James Landsman, UK - Friday, April 8, 2005 at 13:10:14
I am trying to find information about the SS Dongola, on which my father served as 2nd engineer in the early 1950's. any info. and perhaps a photograph of the vessel would be gratefully received.

Mike Stevenson, UK - Friday, April 8, 2005 at 09:15:54
Are there any pictures of SS Dilwara from 1897 and a list of Army personel who sailed on her to India. Left UK on 4.11.1897
My grandfather was a passenger William Louis Stevenson. [An old postcard shot is shown here]

Peter Wilkinson, Bahamas - Thursday, April 7, 2005 at 23:39:15
This great site continues to inspire!
Does anyone have ANY snippets of information on t/s MADURA, especially WW11 service? I have a little and would willingly share. My e-mail is peterw7@direcway.com
Peter Wilkinson (Old Pangbournian)

Peter Robinson, US - Wednesday, April 6, 2005 at 15:39:21
My Father recently passed away and left me the ships bell from his father's North Sea fishing trawler which sailed out of Grimsby, Lincolnshire. The name cast in the bell was Takliwa. I know my Grandfather's trawler was not named Takliwa. I know some of the history of the Takliwa but how might the bell have come into my families possession? Was the ship salvaged after it burned in the Nicobar Islands in 1945? Also does anyone have any idea what the name Takliwa means? [Takliwa is thought to be a placename of Japanese origin - Editor]

Les Maiden, New Zealand - Wednesday, April 6, 2005 at 04:11:37
Barry Marchant wrote (1/11/04) asking if I had received a photograph of 'Matiana'. Computer problems at the time meant that I may have accidentally deleted it. I have no record of having received it. If he could e-mail me another that would be fantastic - they seem to be few and far between!

Graeme Challen, Australia - Saturday, April 2, 2005 at 23:10:33
I am trying to find a picture/photo of the Chyebassa that my family sailed to Australia on in 1883.

Lorne Nichols, Australia - Saturday, April 2, 2005 at 05:26:00
One of our Fremantle Pilots Capt. James Major will be retiring on 16th April 2005 after 29 years of service in the Port of Fremantle. Prior to his time with Fremantle Port he was a British India cadet. We are looking for people who may have some connection with Jim and would like to acknowledge his departure, or can embellish with any anecdotes (humorous or otherwise). Your assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Peter D'Souza, US - Thursday, March 31, 2005 at 20:50:55
An excellent web-site. I recognised a few names in the log.

Michael Chambers, UK - Thursday, March 31, 2005 at 15:55:24
Great site. Does anybody have any funny stories, information or pictures of the SS OBRA. My Dad was RO on her for a short while back in 1951 and I'm attempting to document his career.

Doug Dukes, UK - Tuesday, March 29, 2005 at 15:37:52
A great web site. Best wishes to all!!!

John Deering, UK - Monday, March 28, 2005 at 17:34:27
Capt Robert Arthur Crozier was my uncle. I have a list of some of the ships he served on (inc Pachumba, Palamcotta, Pundua) but it is not complete. I would like to get as much information about his service as possible.

Rosemary Richardson-Weisgerber, Canada - Sunday, March 27, 2005 at 07:00:10
Looking for information/records relating to my grandfather, Captain Philip John Richardson who may have worked for BI in late 1800's and early 1900's.

Douglas Dukes, UK - Friday, March 25, 2005 at 19:56:23
I have a glass paperweight depicting a 3-Black Funnel Vessel sporting 2 white Bands on each and the heading British India Line (in red) plus Ship by B.I and Travel by B.I. Can anyone give me the ships name? [It will be one of the T class, Tairea, Takliwa or Talamba - Editor]

Terence Peters, Australia - Wednesday, March 23, 2005 at 14:50:08
Finished with company 1970 as 3/Eng in Calcutta to migrate to Australia. Trying to get some information on my uncle K.S.O'Brien. He was either a Captain/Chief Officer and served on the vessels ss Amra, Ellenga and maybe the Aska in the early 40's.

Thomas Malcolm, Australia - Wednesday, March 23, 2005 at 14:07:01
The bond which exists within all B.I.staff astounds many people.Time is of no importance only the reason.

Lou Chambers, Australia - Wednesday, March 23, 2005 at 12:29:10
Never actually signed onto the logbook but have looked at the site several times. Its a great credit to the creators as it is bringing together folks from an era gone. I am Harry Chambers daughter (he was Capt on Orna, Purnea, Bombala, Strathconnon and others .....!) Harry is alive and well and living in a nursing home in Perth and Margaret my Mother is alive, well and living at home. They are both excited and thrilled to have been remembered by so many of you and I will pass on salaams etc. from the site as and when. Cheers.

Alan Hitchman, Australia - Wednesday, March 23, 2005 at 10:00:20
I was just looking for info of the Nevasa (The ship that changed my life)when i came across this site.

Christine White, France - Monday, March 21, 2005 at 17:25:42
Trying to trace Frank J. Moyce, who served on the Umtata in the 1950s who knew the Spragg family in Mombassa.

Angela Walters, UK - Sunday, March 20, 2005 at 18:08:44
Brilliant and informative website. THANK YOU for setting it up. The "Uganda" took myself and family from Beira in 1965 when we left Africa. Fabulous memories of such a long and interesting voyage. Had also done the Union-Castle route from Southampton to the Cape, almost as interesting!

Karl Flinders, UK - Saturday, March 19, 2005 at 20:43:24
I am trying to find of the period that Frederick John Flinders was captain of the SS Uganda

Tony Lister, UK - Thursday, March 17, 2005 at 22:12:59
Served on Uganda 1965, Nevasa 1966 and Woodarra 1967. Wonderfull website, I have recognised one or two names, very interesting.

...sign the logbook

Hugh McIntyre, UK - Thursday, March 17, 2005 at 21:20:54
Archie Hill - where have you been? I noted your contribution dated March 9th. I assume you have unsubscribed from BIShip - many have been asking after you.

Allan Mornement, UK - Wednesday, March 16, 2005 at 09:54:48
Annette Peppiatt's note on the 'Loodiana'. The 'Loodiana' was lost after it had left Port Louis in Mauritius on January 10th, 1910. I suspect it was on it's way to Durban, since my cousin had sent urgent mail to England, and would not have chosen a Colombo-bound mail ship.

Jonathan Morris, UK - Sunday, March 13, 2005 at 20:24:16
I am looking into the collision on 15th March 1942 between the Hospital Ship Vasna and S.S. Miriam Thomas. Does anyone connected with this website, or reading the logbook, have any information regarding this collision? The Miriam Thomas was lost with all hands, including my Great Grandfather - Capt. Hugh Conway Campbell. Would the company hold records of this collision, and the following inquests / court case?

Ian Beaton, UK - Saturday, March 12, 2005 at 19:42:55
I am not a former member of BI but I am looking for information about someone who may have been a captain up to about 1930. I had someone search BI staff records at National Maritime Museum but she reported that they contained information about stewards but not captains. Does anyone know of an archive with names of former captains? I am interested in someone with the surname Nelson or Neilson - but not David Landles Neilson though it may have been his brother. I would be very grateful for any leads.

James Pottinger, UK - Saturday, March 12, 2005 at 19:40:04
For anyone interested I have drawn model plans of Chantala and Baroda, published in Model Boats and Model Shipwright magazines

Ian Rankin, Australia - Saturday, March 12, 2005 at 00:02:57
Great site, looking for any Information on Capt Ernest Ashby

Derek Hargreaves, UK - Friday, March 11, 2005 at 10:45:37
Reference John Grainger's query on Sangola's London calls, this ship left Glasgow on 6 June 1947 after completion of post-build trials, passed through Middlesborough 8 to 14th and London 15 to 28 June 1947.She was built specifically to re-open the 'Apcar' Line service between Calcutta, Maylasia. China & Japan, her first three round trips terminating in Shanghai or Amoy before extending to Yokohama on 12 May 1948. Sangola left Shanghai on 29 December 1948, the last visit under the 'old' Chinese regime with Mao Tse Tung's people almost in the suburbs. I am not familiar with her subsequent service

Ian Davies, UK - Thursday, March 10, 2005 at 23:45:30
I worked as SOA (School Office Assistant) with languages (French and Russian - first time French students on board from COGEDEP) on Nevasa for much of late 1967 under Directors of Education Paul Duncan (a true gentleman), Tony Case and Jim Eades to Leningrad and Eastern Mediterranean; also on Devonia out of Plymouth and another from Greenock on National Trust for Scotland cruise to St Kilda. Was also down for much more exotic ones to West Africa and Canada but pulled out because I met my future wife back in Cambridge - and was presented with an ultimatum! Chris Sample, Dave Cash and William Wilkins are names which come down the years as great people to work with. Abiding memory is being the Captain's voice (in French) on the bridge for Emergency Stations practice and being told by him that, being the voice of the Captain, I'd be last man off the ship...! Fantastic memories and a wonderfully formative experience I'll never forget. Thanks, B I!

Archie Hill, UK - Wednesday, March 9, 2005 at 09:13:41
former engineer officer in BI between 1956 - 1961.

John Grainger, UK - Sunday, March 6, 2005 at 21:21:18
Whilst browsing the website britishpathe.com, for pictures of tugs i came across some great colour photos of Sangola (pictured here) in the KGV locks and entering the KGV Dock, London. The year is 1962. Having quite a few books on BI and having an interest in the company for many years, and living close to and working in the Royals for many years I'm curious to know was this SANGOLA's only visit to London, and why? According to the BI "bible" she finished her passenger service in 1962 and was scrapped in 1963.

David Edge - Sunday, 6 Mar 2005 01:20:12
I am trying to trace the route of the ss Dilwara which departed from the UK (site uknown ) on the 1st November 1902. I would like to know the destination, believed to be South Africa.

Joy Normile, US - Saturday, March 5, 2005 at 05:25:00
Hello, I am so wanting to find out about travel from Calcutta or southern India to Colombo Ceylon in 1925 to connect with the MOOLTAN (from UK?) Oct/Nov/Dec 1925 headed for Australia. For a widow with three children under age of 3 how would she arrange such a journey? What were her options? Where should I look for answers?

Peter Wilkinson, Bahamas - Tuesday, February 22, 2005 at 23:09:18
Madura (pictured here) - British India SN - World War II activities, June 1940
Initial Source: Press cutting (Daily Telegraph) dated "Friday" at a "West Country Port"
(Now known to be Falmouth on Friday 21st June 1940). Article by Hugh Carleton Greene - Berlin Correspondent, Daily Telegraph, brother of the author Graham Greene, later Director General of the BBC.

He listed passengers and crew on Madura as including:
Captain Beattie - In command
Mr Powman - Chief Chef
Mr Fayne - Chief Baker (of Huddersfield)

Hugh Carleton Greene
Sefton Delmer - Berlin Correspondent, Daily Express. Later Head of black propaganda unit of SOE. Author of Black Boomerang.
Stefan Osusky - Czech Minister in Paris. Later Chief of the Czech Liberation Committee (in exile) in London.
Pierre Cot - former French Air Minister. Former French Minister of Foreign Affairs
Henri Bernstein - French dramatist and playwright.
Baron James Rothschild and one son.
Miss Eve Curie - Author, journalist and daughter of Madame Curie. Author of Journey among Warriors and a biography of Madame Curie.

Other passengers included:
Francis de Marneffe (15), later doctor of medicine and author of Last Boat from Bordeaux.
Marcel-Henri Jaspar - Belgian Politician (De Marneffe). Later attempted to form Belgian Government in Exile in London.
Andre Glarner - journalist associated with League of Nations - The Exchange Telegraph. Author of De Montmartre a Tripoli, 1947 (Curie)
Anna McLaren - (ATS?) - (Delmer)
William John Wilkinson - Barclays Bank

Other possible passengers
Anthony Gross - English painter and printmaker (Biography states: "Left France by one of last ships to depart Bordeaux.")
Captain Eric Smythe MC and bar. Father of Pat Smythe OBE - Olympic Show Jumper. Her book Jump for Joy, states he left France under fire, on the very last boat to leave Bordeaux.

The Voyage
Greene says Madura was three weeks overdue from East Africa to England when she was diverted to Bordeaux to pick up refugees.
Greene says voyage was two days.
Delmer says voyage was five days from Bordeaux..
De Marneffe says departure was from Le Verdon sur Mer (at the mouth of the Gironde estuary)
De Marneffe says departure was Tuesday 18th June 1940 arriving Falmouth 20th
Haws book on BI states - 17th June en route East Afica-UK diverted to Bordeaux, took off 1500 refugees and made Falmouth under persistent air attack.
Wilkinson mentioned air attack(s).

Other Information
HC Greene states that Madura was carrying 1500 assorted refugees.
(I believe she was configured at the time to carry 170 passengers and crew.)
Greene specially mentions the heroic efforts of the galley staff to keep all fed.
De Marneffe comments with surprise that all were fed. 
Greene filed his story from Falmouth on Friday June 21st, indicating that Madura arrived on 20th or 21st.
[Compiled by Peter Wilkinson - February 2005]

Donald Skipp, Canada - Tuesday, February 22, 2005 at 17:30:39
Sailed from Singapore to Liverpool 1948 on the "Dilwara"... witnessed rescue of girl 3yrs old, who fell from rail into the Bay of Biscay, and alone 20 minutes before being rescued! RAF Police Corporal D J Skipp

Paul Simmons, Australia - Tuesday, February 22, 2005 at 00:13:07
I'm trying to find information on the ship Penang under the command of my uncle Capt William Grant Mackie attacked during the evacuation of Singapore 1942. Uncle Bill was injured but the ship apparently berthed in Colombo where he died. Any other information on him would be most appreciated.

...sign the logbook

Hugh Mconie, UK - Saturday, February 19, 2005 at 14:29:26
I was on the ss Uganda in 1974 going to Holland

Ian Stacey, UK - Saturday, February 19, 2005 at 10:15:41
Re Frank Cantwell- entry 13 Jan 05- Hi Frank! Glad you found this site-we sailed together on Santhia with Ted Rowley with whom I am in contact. Where are you shore-based FX?! Just been looking at photos of those days, Ted does all the electronics!

Jatin Mehta, UK - Thursday, February 17, 2005 at 15:04:26
Great heart warming trip across the website. Brought back memmories of my travels between Mombasa and Mumbai between 1968 to 1971 as a student. Big thank you and good wishes to all the crew, cook & staff who looked after us on those journies.

Barry Antrichan, UK - Wednesday, February 16, 2005 at 15:13:07
Nice web site!

Joy Normile, US - Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at 18:23:21
Looking for passenger list of ship that left Calcutta for Colombo end of 1925 carrying widow Johanna Myers and three small children who connected to Mooltan and arrived Fremantle December 1925.

Rob Thomson, UK - Monday, February 14, 2005 at 18:49:06
I recently put a request in the log book but left out the all important name of my dad, his name was George Henry Thomson and he served on the Empire Charmian at the end of the last war,mainly in the Pacific, as before any info would be fantastic

Derek Hargreaves - Monday, 14 Feb 2005 11:30:25
For Tim Ellis re your query of 10 September 2004 with apologies for late response.
If you are sure that your 'health cruise' was in an 'A' and it was not Amra, you must have sailed in the Aronda as the only other 'A' of this vintage was the Aska, sunk in 1940. You may be interested to know that, as a 2/O, I sailed with your father when he was my C/O in the 'Egra' during 1949 until this lovely old ship (1909) was scrapped in Bombay in January 1950. We were engaged in moving troops between Suez, Massawa, East Africa and Mauritius and I have to say that the Egra was one of the happiest ships I ever sailed in due, in no small way, to the efforts of your father and our Commander, Capt. R. J. Marshall - gentlemen both. Sadly, I have no pictures of this period as my camera was stolen by Fuzzy Wuzzies in Massawa. My compliments to your mother.

Don Braben, Australia - Sat, 12 Feb 2005 09:58:02
I have a query you might be able to answer regarding Waipara (1904) arriving Brisbane 1912. I have 2 photos where clearly she is cargo carrying and in BI livery with black boats etc either before or after conversion to carry 338 immigrants. The third attached photo is undated but clearly in Brisabane Town Reach around 1912 because of the buildings on Kangaroo Point. The name is clearly readable and it looks as if the boats are white or stone same with the derricks. Would you or your historians agree?

Callum Turner, UK - Wednesday, February 9, 2005 at 22:54:10
Anyone know where beb woooly is

Niel Dobson, UK - Tuesday, February 8, 2005 at 16:08:33
My father Norman Dobson (now 82) was radio Officer on board SS Urlana when it hit Skye during WWII. I am looking for others who were there and any photographs of the SS Urlana or stories about her last voyage.
I look forward to hearing from you

Michiel van der Mey, Germany - Monday, February 7, 2005 at 22:20:05
I am reacting to the question of Mr Mark Dodge, US - September 30, 2003. Soon my book on the history of the Dornier Wal flying boat will be published, with unique photographs of the flight around the world by Wolfgang von Gronau. The book is being published by Messrs Logisma in Florence Italy.
Dornier Wal Documenation Center

Robert Thompson, UK - Monday, February 7, 2005 at 18:47:34
My dad served on Empire Charmian at the end of WW2 mostly in the Pacific. A long shot but does anyone have any info or remember him. He died eight years ago - be nice to have some memories.

James Pottinger, UK - Sunday, February 6, 2005 at 20:23:02
Worked on construction of Nyanza and Nowshera at Scotts. Involved in building of Nyanza and Nowshera from manuf. of turbines to outfitting

Brad Schealler, Australia - Sunday, February 6, 2005 at 04:09:27
My great grandmother Ida Chyebassa Kleinhans was born on the Chyebassa 20.07.1884. I would like to locate a good drawing or set of plans, or some sort of memento. Would there be a log record of her birth? [Ships' Official Logbooks are kept by the Public Record Office at Kew, just outside London - Editor]

Julian Harston, Serbia - Wednesday, February 2, 2005 at 11:51:25
I was delighted to stumble upon this page. My father (clive harston) was the first Director of education on the school ships Dunera Devonia and Nevasa. It totally changed his life. I was a passenger on Kenya from Beira to Tilbury over Christmas 1964. What a wonderful journey. Still fresh in my memory Captain Ivan Bowerman. tanga, dar, zanzibar, mombassa, aden, canal, marseilles, barcelona, gib, home

Brandon Deakes, US - Wednesday, February 2, 2005 at 01:48:43
To Christopher Deakes. my family was from the Andamans. Are we possibly reated?

Martyn Battrick, South Africa - Tuesday, February 1, 2005 at 19:44:32
I sailed on Chantala, Dwarka, Amra and Chakrata between 1968 and 1971 before my exploits became too testing for a very conservative and old-school captain (now passed on). I made a few good friends though and would love to hear from any of them. Steve White and Roy Titchmarsh have been in contact and I see Cliff Cadman has signed this logbook recently. Howzit Cliff! I wasn't really cut out for a life at sea although we sure has some fun at times. I left Chakrata just before Xmas in 71 in Colombo and headed back to UK after the 25th! - with Bill the horseman from Australia being asked to go home too........ It was an experience.

Tony Brown-Berresford, Australia - Monday, January 31, 2005 at 02:43:33
This is an excellent web site. Very interesting.

Robin Harrod, UK - Wednesday, January 26, 2005 at 08:36:08
I am looking for any information about my grandfather, John Herbert Humble-Crofts, zho served as an officer with the BISN Co from Jan. 1899 when he joined with a 2nd's. certificate, to Dec. 1911, on various ships. It is possible he travelled with his eventual wife, Beatrice Martha Harrod to India and they may have married on board or in India. He later served in the RNVR in WWI. I also have a P&O and BISN Co diary and almanack for 1918, owner not listed, but many entries with names and addresses.

Ian Byard, Australia - Saturday, January 22, 2005 at 17:23:17
Require Information please: Buster Browne (logentries 3) 8 Oct 2002 gave information on Tug Corinda...I, and other MH & Co Australian staff, are seeking information on the other tugs he mentioned: Fearless, Forceful and Carlock. We know where Fearless and Forceful are (Brisbane and Adelaide) but would like more info on Carlock. If Buster would like to go to BIship Links page and click on Ian Byard, thence to Naldham link and finally to photographs he will see all that we have on the Inchcape Tugs. We would appreciate more if he has any further knowledge of them. He can also contact me by e-mail ianbyard@yalumba.co.uk

W Mills, Australia - Friday, January 21, 2005 at 23:38:31
Very interesting site. Am interested in former Commodores/Captains, as I believe my grandfather and Gt. grandfather served and were stationed in India late 1800s and early 1900s. Name of Pratt. Is there somewhere in the site to find such people? Unfortunately do not know ships' names. [The simplest way to check this site for people's names is to use the search facility at the top left of the Home page - Editor]

Rupert Richardson, Canada - Tuesday, January 18, 2005 at 21:26:05
Was glad to find there are some current retirees who still maintain contacts with P&O.
My Father was peacetime Capt. of Rajputana in 1939 at outbreak of WWII.
Ship was dispatched to North Atlantic Convoy duty. Travelling between Halifax/Bermuda/Liverpool from Nov'39/Apr 41 Interesting notes about P&O Ships that were anchored in Halifax, during that period. See book Sailors, Slackers and Blind Pigs. By Stephen Kimber, Published Doubleday Canada. It is a wonder that UK and allies actually survived the German submarine onslaught. Security was nearly non-existant. The loss to merchant shipping is only now coming to light, along with a terrible loss of life.

...sign the logbook

Garry Jones, UK - Sunday, January 16, 2005 at 16:35:30
Fascinated to find this website and browse through the log entries. As a child I returned to the UK from Hong Kong on the Nevasa, in March 1958. My father was returning home from a two-year military posting to HK. I remember the ship very well and still have a few photographs.

John Engel, South Africa - Friday, January 14, 2005 at 14:41:44
My father who is still alive served on the Amra during WW2. He has several photos of the ship and staff members. It would be great to be able to make contact with other Amra staff or relatives.

Frank Cantwell, UK - Thursday, January 13, 2005 at 01:02:38
Just found site. Served as Radio officer initially on Santhia (1957) and subsequently on Pachumba (the quick p)!!! and afterwards on the Chakdina and finally the Dara. I have been shore based since 1961.

Chris McKenny, Dubai - Tuesday, January 11, 2005 at 01:50:15
Sailed on Chantala Karanja Kampala Tanda Amra Juwara and then P& O, see note from Clifford Cadman , how cam I contact

Mariann Evison, Norway - Thursday, January 6, 2005 at 21:53:49
My father was Ernest Evison, he worked for the BI in Bombay, from about 1956. We had one tour on the Daressa to the Persian Gulf and two tours on the Amra to East Africa. We left Bombay on the Devonia in 1963.

Peter Wilkinson, Bahamas - Monday, January 3, 2005 at 05:00:36
Further to my posting of 28 November 2004 re t.s. Madura, I have since found out that the voyage I referred to was in fact in June of 1940 from Bordeaux (Le Verdon) to Falmouth. The master was a Captain Beattie of BI. As I said before, ANY scraps of information about this voyage or the ship or crew would be greatly appreciated.
If anyone is interested, there appears to have been a a surprising number of interesting/important people on that late escape trip from France. Happy to share. My e-mail is peterw7@direcway.com

Albert Gavagan, UK - Sunday, January 2, 2005 at 22:32:07
I am trying to trace my Uncle's steps in 1946 and have a Dinner card of his from the BI Steam Navigation Co Ltd SS Dunera for 29th May 1946. Was anyone else out there on that ship? Where was it going to and from? As an RAF (VR) why was he on the ship in the first place? If you can help contact me via e-mail. I have looked up the name in the BI list for 1946 but it does not appear! Thanks in anticipation.

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