Introduction
Over the years there were several hundred brochures produced for Caronia, both by the Cunard Publicity Department and its partners from American Express and Thos. Cook and Sons. This tour shows you a selection of pictures from these brochures.
Image: From 2-Class brochure cover
The commentary uses a mix of personal recollections and quotes from the brochures, the latter in quoted text panels. Although the pictures come from Caronia brochures, they don't always depict the ship itself.
Two Types
The publicity department often used what might be called generic pictures to illustrate a particular selling point of their main cruise ship. There were two types of brochure, one to advertise the two-class transatlantic liner, the other the Caronia as a superlative one-class cruise ship.
When advertising the latter, very few of the Cabin class public rooms would be depicted. The notable exceptions being the bar of the Cabin Smoking Room, called the Raleigh Room on cruises, and the Sandringham Restaurant. However, illustration of the Sandringham would be different between the two types of brochure.
The Brochure Tour
Extending to 8 pages, this Brochure Tour starts with what might be termed the “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQ) about the Caronia. It then goes on to depict the public rooms, describes the dining experience and how the Publicity Department tackled a few ticklish social issues, then finishes with Caronia's deckplans.
I'm indebted to Rich Rabbett for the supply and use of his original scans. Do enjoy the Brochure Tour…