Illustrated London News, December 6, 1862

This magnificent addition to the large and splendid fleet of this company was launched at the commencement of last month, and is now rapidly completing for sea. She is a vessel of the same class and character as those already in possession of the peninsular and Oriental Company with the addition of such improvements as the most advanced experience in the art of shipbuilding has been able to suggest. No effort has been spared to make the new vessel perfect as a ship, or to provide those conveniences which so much contribute to the comfort of passengers in long sea voyages; and a beautiful model of her attracted much attention in the Naval Court of the late International Exhibition.

The Poonah is constructed from designs of the eminent naval architect, James Ash, and has been built by the Thames Iron and Shipbuilding Company at Blackwall, under the immediate direction of the company's own superintendent, Mr. Joseph Robinson, and fitted with his successful system of ventilation. The following are her principal dimensions: Length between perpendiculars, 315ft.; extreme breadth, 41ft.; depth in the hold, 30ft.; burden, 2597 tons. The engines, which are of 500-horse power, are constructed by Messrs. Humphrys and Tennant, of Deptford.

The ceremony of naming the vessel was performed by Miss Collier, and after the launch a grand banquet was given by the builders.

TheShipsList | 1862

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