Kamerad (ship)
Kamerad was a German motor vessel that initially served as a passenger ferry for the East Frisian island of Spiekeroog before later being converted into a cargo vessel and tugboat. Built in the Netherlands in 1907, the vessel survived both world wars despite being requisitioned for military service during each conflict. After nearly six decades of service, it was scrapped in 1965.[1]
History
Early service as Spiekeroog
In the early 20th century, the local bathing and shipping company on Spiekeroog sought a more modern ferry that could provide passengers with better protection from the weather, as earlier vessels generally lacked enclosed accommodation. The company commissioned a motor vessel from the Kromhout shipyard in Amsterdam at a cost of 36,000 Goldmarks. Completed in 1907 and named Spiekeroog, the vessel entered service on the mainland–island connection and offered a more reliable transport link.[2]
During World War I, the vessel was requisitioned by the Kaiserliche Marine in 1917 for military duties. Following the end of the war, it was returned to civilian service and resumed ferry operations between 1921 and 1922.[3]
Conversion and renaming
In 1923, the vessel was sold to the Magdeburg-based Julius Krümling company. In 1924, it underwent an extensive conversion into a twin-screw motor tug and cargo vessel, after which it was renamed Saale.[4]
In 1933, the ship was renamed Kamerad. Under that name, it was employed in freight transport in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea.[4]
World War II and later career
After the outbreak of World War II in 1939, Kamerad was again requisitioned for military service. The vessel survived the war and was subsequently returned to civilian use, primarily operating as a cargo vessel out of Hamburg.[4]
In 1965, after a long service life, the ship was sold for scrap. It was broken up in Nieuw-Lekkerland, Netherlands, in September 1965.[4]
Design and characteristics
As built, the vessel—then named Spiekeroog—was designed primarily for passenger service in the tidal waters of the East Frisian Islands. It was among the first vessels in the region to provide a dedicated enclosed space for passengers.[2]
During its 1924 conversion into Saale, its propulsion system was significantly altered and upgraded with two diesel engines, making it more suitable for towing and cargo operations.[4]
References
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External links
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