SS Prince George

Postcard- S.S. Prince George, c.1910 (16280529849)

SS Prince George was a steamship built in 1947 for the Canadian National Railway (CNR). The vessel was primarily used for passenger and cargo services along the coast of British Columbia, Canada.

Construction and Design[edit | edit source]

SS Prince George was constructed by the Burrard Dry Dock Company in North Vancouver, British Columbia. The ship was designed to provide both passenger and freight services, featuring luxurious accommodations for travelers. The vessel was 350 feet long, with a beam of 54 feet and a gross tonnage of 5,812 tons. It was powered by steam turbines, which allowed it to reach speeds of up to 18 knots.

Service History[edit | edit source]

The SS Prince George entered service in 1948, operating on the route between Vancouver, Victoria, and Prince Rupert. The ship was known for its elegant design and high-quality service, making it a popular choice for travelers along the British Columbia coast.

In addition to its regular passenger services, the SS Prince George also played a role in transporting goods and mail to remote communities. The vessel was equipped with cargo holds and facilities to handle a variety of freight, including perishable goods.

Later Years and Decommissioning[edit | edit source]

By the late 1960s, the rise of air travel and the development of road networks led to a decline in demand for coastal steamship services. The SS Prince George was eventually retired from service in 1976. After being decommissioned, the ship was sold and repurposed for various uses, including as a floating hotel and restaurant.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

The SS Prince George is remembered as an important part of British Columbia's maritime history. The ship's service helped to connect remote communities and played a significant role in the development of the region's transportation infrastructure.