The SS Deutschland (1923) from HAPAG.Source: Schiffe - MaximAfter losing most of its fleet in World
The SS Deutschland (1923) from HAPAG.Source: Schiffe - MaximAfter losing most of its fleet in World War I, HAPAG was in urgent need of new ships. Following the policy the company’s legendary director Albert Ballin had adopted at the turn of the century, HAPAG wasn’t looking to acquire speedy ships, since their operational costs were to high and powerfull engines could cause annoying vibrations. The company ordered four more or less identical new ships at Blohm & Voss in Hamburg. The second one to be launched was the Deutschland, which in March 27th 1924 set sails for her maiden voyage to New York. She had a relatively low top speed (16 knots). Her interiors were designed rather to be confortable than luxurious and she had large compartments for immigrants travelling to the US. She was also fitted out with anti roll tanks, which made the Deutschland a very stable ship. Soon the Deutschland became a highy popular both amongst wealthy passengers and immigrants. She operated between Hamburg and New York via Southampton and Le Havre. New engines were installed in 1929, increasing her top speed to 19 knots. As an answer to the huge popularity of the Deutschland, HAPAG decided to extend her length by 14 metres, which increased her passenger capacity. With the outbreak of World War II she was requisitioned by the German Navy. In 1940 she was reconverted into a swimming accomodation for Navy - personnel. In 1945 she was used to transport german civilians from the besieged Eastern Prussia to the west. She transported more than 70.000 refugees. In the last days of the war the Navy planned to convert her in a Hospital ship. However the paint didn’t suffice for the whole ship to be covered. Before the reconversion ended she was sunken by the same british airstrike which sank the Cap Arkona on May 3rd 1945. The wreck was lifted and scrapped in 1948. -- source link
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