S.S. Australis Ocean Liner

MOC-164523-1

After World War 2, the USS West Point Troop Transport was returned to civil use and sold to the Greek Chandris Group. Under a new flag, the ship was repainted and renamed to the S.S. Australis.

This MOC is based on my LEGO SS America Ocean Liner MOC.



The SS Australis, originally the SS America, underwent a transformative chapter in 1964 when it was sold to the Greek-owned Chandris Group, marking a shift from luxury liner to a vessel catering to the postwar emigrant run from Europe to Australia. Renamed Australis, the ship underwent extensive refitting, increasing its passenger capacity from fewer than 1,200 to an impressive 2,258. The maiden voyage in 1965 took it from Southampton to Australia and New Zealand via Piraeus and Suez, showcasing its versatility on a round-the-world route.

However, the Australis faced challenges, including a fire in the galley in 1970 and a minor collision with the Australian aircraft carrier HMAS Melbourne in Sydney Harbour in 1974. Despite these incidents, it remained a significant player in the Australia-New Zealand route until its final voyage in 1977. Rising fuel costs, aging infrastructure, and the emergence of long-range jetliners led to its withdrawal from the Australian run in 1978.

Under the ownership of Venture Cruise Lines, the ship was briefly renamed America once again in an attempt to capitalize on its American heritage. However, its career with Venture Cruise Lines was marred by numerous issues, including incomplete refitting, maintenance problems, and passenger dissatisfaction. The ship faced a turbulent period with mutinies, offloading of passengers, and financial troubles. America was eventually impounded in July 1978 for non-payment of debts, leading to its order for auction by the United States district court in August 1978. This marked the end of its seafaring legacy, highlighting a complex and challenging chapter in its maritime history.

Source: Wikipedia Article



This LEGO® MOC was designed, created and rendered by The Bobby Brix Channel in 2023.
This product may not be distributed publicly or commercially by a third-party without written permission from The Bobby Brix Channel. This product may be reused, re-adapted or remixed by the user under the condition of proper attribution of the creator and/or original design. This product is for individual and non-commercial use only unless stated otherwise. Do not distribute.