M.V. Triaster
p. 59 · Read in the full issue
Enters Pacific Phosphate Trade
AFTER being delayed by heavy weather along the eastern coast of Australia, the British Phosphate Commissioners’ new motor ship Triaster, on her maiden voyage from Ocean Island to Melbourne, arrived at Bay anchorage in the middle of June.
The vessel, which embodies the latest ideas in marine construction, was built by Lithgow’s, Greenock, and is 400 feet in length, 58 feet in breadth, 37 feet in depth, and of 6,300 tons gross register.
Motive power is supplied by Kincaid- Burmeister and Wain engines developing 3,600 horse-power at 115 revolutions per minute, with a resultant service speed of 12 knots.
Latest electric loading equipment has been installed, together with refrigerated space for perishable cargo, while accom modation for 40 passengers in eight four berth and four two-berth cabins has also been provided. A peculiar combination of clipper bow and cruiser stern gives the Triaster a somewhat odd appearance.
The inward cargo of phosphate rock was discharged at Yarraville, Victoria, and the vessel then loaded stores for her return passage to the phosphate islands.