Two funnels, three masts, speed 17.5 knots, accommodation for 280-1st, 182-2nd and 122-3rd class passengers.
Launched for the Union Steamship Company, she arrived at Capetown on her maiden voyage on 21st December. At the time, she was the largest liner running between Britain and South Africa.
In June 1898 she ran aground briefly on the Shambles, off Portland Bill, Dorset but was refloated.
October 1899 carried 1,500 troops to Capetown in less then 15 days at the beginning of the Boer War. 1900 transferred to ownership of the newly formed Union-Castle Mail Steamship Company 11th August to 25th September 1914 requisitioned as a troopship, then returned to commercial service.
16th December 1915 requisitioned as troopship, mainly on Mediterranean service.
1918 carried Nigerian troops from Mombasa to Lagos. Later carried U.S. troops between Liverpool and the USA.
1919 on New Zealand route. 1920 returned to commercial service.
January 1925 laid up at Netley. October 1925 made final voyage to Capetown during the seamen's strike.
May 1926 arrived at La Spezia for scrapping. [Union-Castle Line by Peter Newell]
