Royal Connections
RMS Caronia always had close connections with British royalty. She was launched by HRH Princess Elizabeth on Thursday 30 October 1947, her last public engagement before her marriage. HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh had joined the ship at Gourock on 18 December 1948 for the commissioning trip to Southampton, just after Prince Charles had been born, and just before Caronia's maiden voyage. At the aft end of Caronia's main lounge was hung a large portrait of the Royal couple.
For the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in June 1953, there was a huge demand for Eastbound crossings of the Atlantic. Needless to say, those who travelled on the Caronia only did this in style!
Caronia was the last of the Cunard fleet to arrive in the UK with American passengers, but not before having taken them on a glorious 37 day Mediterranean and Northern Europe Cruise, then acting as their hotel for the duration of the pageant in the UK.
A large, purpose-built stand to see the Coronation Procession had been erected at Apsley House which stands right in the heart of London, at Hyde Park Corner. Passengers had reserved seats in this stand, as well as special Pullman trains laid on to take them to London and back.
With travel to London being obviously so crowded everywhere ahead of the big day, the same Pullman trains had conveyed passengers on a mystery trips of Southern Britain instead. This included visits to historic cities like Salisbury and Winchester. No-one would forget this voyage in a hurry!
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