Union-Castle Line Passenger Services - Outward, Homeward and Coastwise
Map Union-Castle Line Passenger Services - Outward, Homeward and Coastwise Services, 1929. Union-Castle Line Llandaff Castle Passenger List, 23 May 1929. GGA Image ID # 21a55b8b9f
Introduction
The article "Services - Outward, Homeward, and Coastwise - 1929," published by the United States Lines, provides a comprehensive overview of the various passenger and cargo services offered by the company during the late 1920s. As a major player in transatlantic travel, United States Lines catered to the growing demand for reliable and luxurious ocean voyages between America, Europe, and beyond. This period marked a time of significant advancements in maritime travel, with ships becoming not only faster and more efficient but also offering unprecedented levels of comfort and service to passengers. The article highlights the different routes, amenities, and experiences provided by the company, reflecting the era's emphasis on innovation, connectivity, and the growing importance of global trade and travel. Through its detailed description of outward, homeward, and coastwise services, the article captures the essence of a time when ocean liners were the pinnacle of international travel and commerce.
Royal Mail Service
The South African Royal Mail Steamers are despatched from Southampton every Friday for the Cape Province and Natal via Madeira. On the outward journey, the Royal Mail Steamers proceed as far as Durban, at which Port they commence the homeward voyage, sailing thence every Thursday, from East London every Friday, from Algoa Bay (Port Elizabeth) every Saturday, arriving at Capetown usually on Monday morning, and proceeding thence to Southampton, via Madeira, on the Friday.
Passengers landing at Madeira may enjoy a very interesting excursion to Terreiro da Lucta on the Mount Railway Company's trains, which take half an hour to make the trip. Tickets may be obtained from the Purser.
The Mail Service to St. Helena and Ascension is performed by the Intermediate Steamers, with calls at these Islands, Outward and Homeward, approximately every four weeks.
Intermediate Service
The Intermediate Steamers, which take First and Third Class Passengers only at lower rates than the Royal Mail Steamers, are frequently despatched from London for the Cape Province, Natal, Lourenço Marques (Delagoa Bay), and Beira. These Steamers proceed alternately via Las Palmas (Grand Canary) and Teneriffe.
For your convenience, there is a homeward service by Intermediate Steamers from the Cape Ports, Durban, Lourenco, Marques, Beira and Mauritius, via Las Palmas or Teneriffe to London.
East Coast Service
During each period of three months, two Passenger Steamers are despatched to East and South African ports via Suez, returning via the West Coast and the Canary Islands. There is a similar service to South Africa via the Canary Islands, returning via East Coast ports and Suez.
Mauritius Service
Steamers maintain the connection between England and Mauritius at specific intervals.
Calls at Lobito
Calls at Lobito are sometimes made on the outward and homeward voyage.
Ocean Return Tickets
A reduction off the amount of two Single Fares is made on Ocean Return Tickets. Ocean Return Tickets are available for twelve months.
Single Tickets, Re-Booking Allowance
Passengers who have taken a Single Ticket only from England or South Africa (paying the full single tariff fare thereon) and who return within twelve months from the date of embarkation will be allowed a reduction of 10 percent on the amount of the single journey back, on production of the counterfoil of the first single ticket taken by them. This concession does not apply to passages Coastwise or Ports at which the Steamers of the Union-Castle Line do not call.
The period of twelve months specified above cannot, under any circumstances, be extended.
Prepaid Passages, Outward or Homeward
Passages can be prepaid in England or South Africa for friends on the other side. Advances on such passages can be sent by cable at a small additional expense if desired. While the Company does not accept any responsibility for any inaccuracy, mistake or oversight, we are committed to providing the best service possible in the wording, despatch or delivery of any telegram or letter in connection with these prepaid passages, or for any consequences arising therefrom.
Remittances of small amounts can also be made to passengers at the same time.
Handbook of Information for Passengers can be obtained gratis from the Purser on board.
The South and East African Year Book and Guide, nearly 1,000 pages with 64 pages of color maps, is on sale in the Hairdresser's Shop for 2/6.
Conclusion
The article on United States Lines' services in 1929 offers a valuable glimpse into the golden age of ocean travel, when ships were the primary means of transatlantic transportation and a symbol of luxury and modernity. By detailing the various routes and services, the article showcases the company's commitment to providing a superior travel experience, whether for business, leisure, or trade. It also underscores the broader significance of maritime travel during this era, as ships played a crucial role in connecting continents and facilitating global commerce. As the article illustrates, the services offered by United States Lines were not just about getting from one place to another; they represented a sophisticated and highly valued aspect of international travel that helped shape the modern world.
