In 1952, Dudley and his family ventured on his first ocean crossing, from New York to Liverpool, England and back, aboard the M.V. Britannic. The Britannic was the namesake of the Titannic sistership, RMS Britannic and was launched by the White Star Line in 1929, she was Britain's first motor ship.

Dudley was lucky enough to have a father who had served in the Royal Navy and who was, after the war, working in the shipping business. Ocean travel being much cheaper than air travel in 1952, and having a family background in ocean-going ships, it was only natural for the family to look toward the Cunard Line as a means to venture back to "the old country". They packed up the steaming chests and bought round-trip Cabin class tickets for the journey.

The trip over, in mid-August, saw day after day of "Gentle breeze, slight sea and swell, fine and clear", but by our return in late-October, the conditions had become "Strong W'ly gales, high seas, heavy swell, overcast and squally". I remember loving it because, as one of the few passengers not seasick, I had the run of the ship.

Dudley was only 4 years old, but the voyage fostered a lifelong love of the sea. The Britannic survived until she was scrapped in 1960, but the memories survive to this day. Thanks, Dad.

Britannic Information:

Get Back Aboard Kia Orana.