THE NEW STEAMER VICTORIA.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXIII, Issue 243, 13 October 1902, Page 4

THE NEW STEAMER VICTORIA.

Sydney papers to hand by the mail contain a cable message, dated London, October 4, stating that the new steamer Victoria, of the Huddart, Parker Compa.ny, had sailed for Melbourne via Capetown and Fremantle. The Victoria was launched from the yards of Messrs Gourlay Bros. Dundee, in June last. Sne is a large steel vessel of 3000 tons, built on the lines of the Zealandia, but much larger .-;nd improved, and is intended for the Australian-New Zealand trade. She has accommodation tor 365 passengers, and on her present voyage is in command of Capt. Thomas Free, R.N., manager ot the Newcastle branch of Messrs'Huddart, Parker and Co., who proceeded to London for that purpose. The Victoria is of the well-deck type, with long poop, bridge, and forecastle, and has been constructed to the highest claSs in Lloyd's registry. The prln'clpal: airirensiohs 'ari*: Length, 335 ft; beam, 43ft; depth to bridge (Leek, 30ft lOin; and gross tonnage, 3000 tons. The hull is of steel throughout subdivided by six watertight bulkheads, and water ballast is carried in a cellular double bottom, extending all fore and aft. The peaks are"also fitted for water ballast. The entire space under the poop iji devoted to ' the ' accommodation of tirst-class passengers,■ a total of about 160 being arranged for. The state rooms are exceptionally large, wel! lighted and ventilated, 'fitted with patent folding iron berths, lavatories, electric bells, etc., etc., and are tastefully upholstered. Adjoining the music room is the smoking room, which is panelled in white Carrara marble, the pilasters of dark Pavonazza with frieze and dado relieved with gold. The dining saloon is fitted on the bridge Uec.k to seat over il)' person?. This large saloon is panelled in polished oak, and is handsomely upholstered. The bath ami lavatory accommodation is specially complete, hot and cold water being distributed throughout and special shower baths fitted. The forecastle is arranged to accommodate over 100 second class passengers, the state rooms being very similar to those of. the first class, and a large dining saloon at the after end extends right across the vessel. Tho appliances for handling cargo are also most complete, the vessel being fitted with four hatchways, each having double derricks, and two winches. The engines are' of the triple expansion type, with an indicated horse power of 8500. The vessel should reach the colony next November, in time for the summer traffic.