Builders: Cammell Laird & Co Ltd 1945
Propulsion type: Steam Turbine
Owners: Isle of Man Steam Packet Co Ltd
Service dates: 1946 - 75
Tonnage: Gross 2485
Comments:
Launched on 22 November 1945, King Orry was the fourth Isle of Man steamer to bear this name and she came into service in 1946. She was built at the same time as Mona's Queen (IV) to supplement a much depleted fleet following the end of the Second World War. The steamers were good looking ships with well balanced profiles and their style set the standard for several other ships to join the fleet over the next few years. The passenger accommodation was extensive and comfortable, providing room for 2163 people. The proven machinery provided smooth and quiet running. King Orry was the only one of the sisters to have her funnel cowl removed (in 1962) but this picture shows her in original condition.
She made her last journey in August 1975 and there were rumours that a Greek line were interested in buying her. In the event this did not materialise and she ended up moored on the River Lune, awaiting a tow to Lynch & Son in Rochester to be scrapped. Before this could happen she broke away from her moorings during a storm in January 1976 and ran aground. It took three months to refloat her prior to being scrapped. Her engines were donated to the National Maritime Museum at Greenwich, as being typical of those used in the steam packet ships of the 1940's.
I am indebted to Keith Sutton who has provided additional information on this steamer.