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SS Crown of Wales was built in 1887 by the Halifax Graving Dock Company for the newly formed Canadian Crown Line, intended as a compact but capable North Atlantic passenger steamer. Designed to serve secondary transatlantic and coastal routes, she carried a modest number of first-class passengers alongside a larger steerage complement, reflecting the growing flow of migrants and commercial travelers in the late 19th century. With a service speed of nearly 18 knots, Crown of Wales was considered fast for her size and gained a reputation as a reliable, if unglamorous, liner during her early years.
Between 1899 and 1902, the vessel was briefly requisitioned by the Royal British Navy before being returned to civilian service with Canadian Crown Line, where she continued operating until 1904. Her career ended tragically when she struck an iceberg, opening a fatal breach in her hull. Flooding reached the boiler room, triggering a catastrophic boiler explosion that hastened her loss. Despite the rapid sinking, lasting just 46 minutes, the majority of those aboard survived. Crown of Wales ultimately foundered with the loss of 30 lives, becoming one of the line’s most sobering maritime disasters and a reminder of the hazards faced by early steam-era liners.
SS Crown Of Wales
Length:85m (278.8 feet)
Beam:8.25m (27 feet).
Speed: 17.8 knots.
Built: 1887.
Shipyard: Halifax Graving Dock Company.
Crew capacity:26
1st class capacity: 28
Steerage capacity: 52
Service: 1887-1904.
Commissioner: Canadian crown line.
Ownership history: 1899-1902 CCL 1899-1902 Royal British Navy 1902-1904 CCL.
Fate: foundered.
Cause: breech in hull by iceberg, causing water to flood boiler leading to a boiler explosion.
Sinking time: 46 minutes.
Crew: 18
1st Class Passengers: 28
Steerage Passengers:47
Survivors: 63
Deaths:30
