THE HUDDART-PARKER LINE.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 7246, 29 August 1902, Page 2

THE HUDDART-PARKER LINE.

The following is a description of tho Victoria, tho latest addition tojfcusrs Huddart, Parker and of steamers, which was launched from the yards of Messrs Gourky Bros., on tho 27th Juno:—Tho Victoria is of tho well-deck type, with long poop, bridge, and forecastle, and has been constructed to the highest class Lloyd's registry. Tho principal dimensions are— Length 53535 ft; beam 43ft; depth to bridgo deck, 530 ft lOin ; and gross tonnage, 3000 tons. Tho hull is of steel throughout, subdivided by six water-tight bulkheads, and water ballast is carried in a cellular double bottom extending all fore and aft. The peaks are also fitted for water ballast. Tho entire space under tho poop is devoted to the accommodation of lirst-class passengers, a total of 100 being arranged for. Tho state rooms arc exceptionally largo, well lighted and ventilated, fitted with patent folding iron berths, lavatories, electric bells, etc., etc., and are tastefully upholstered. Adjoining the music-room is tho smokingroom, which is panelled in white Carrara marble, the pilasters ol dark Pavonazza with frieze and dado relieved with gold. Tho dining saloon is fitted on the bridge deck to seat over 70 persons. This large saloon is panelled in polished oak, is handsomely upholstered. The bath' and lavatory accommodation is spagwlly complete, hot and cold water tributcd throughout and special shower baths fitted. The forecastle is arranged to accommodate over 100 second class passengers, tho state-rooms being very similar to thoso of tho first-class, and a large dining saloon at the after end extends right across the vessel. The 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 tho triple expansion type, with an indicated horse-power of 3500. The vessel is for the New Zealand-Australian service, and should reach the Colony next November, in time for the summer traffic.