Orkney Image Library

I seem to remember hearing of a St Sunniva that turned turtle on artic convoy ?. Could this be the one ?? Ron

Yes that is the old St Sunniva - looks as if it is approaching Lerwick. She capsized off Newfoundland due to the heavy ice build up on her superstructure.

The picture is of the St Sunniva I built in 1887 by Hall Russell for The North of Scotland Orkney & Shetland Steam Navigation Co and she was the first purpose-built cruise steamer in the world doing a programme of Norwegian Fjord cruises. In 1908 these cruises ceased, larger more luxurious competition having taken much of the traffic. St Sunniva was converted for the direct Lerwick service, with two hatches being built, and all passenger accommodation removed from lower deck. This picture is after her conversion so must be 1908 or later.She ran aground on Mousa in fog en route to Lerwick, and was unable to be salvaged 10th April 1930. In 1931 St Sunniva II was built by Hall Russell to replace her wrecked predecessor.With her white hull, clipper bow and figurehead, she looked every inch the luxury yacht.She was lost with all hands on convoy duty 22 January 1943.The St Sunniva III started service in 1987.Full details and pictures of all North Company ships are in the book Orkney & Shetland Steamers by Alistair Deayton published by Tempus Publishing Ltd well worth reading for anybody interested in the North Boats.

The latest contribution is correct according to the information that I have gleaned over the years. She was a beautiful ship.