THE M.V. CHANTALA

The Chantala was launched on 27th September 1949, and she was handed over to B.I. by her builders, Barclay, Curle and Company Limited, Glasgow, on 4th March 1950.

Technical Data on Chantala indicates that she was a cargo vessel of 7,551 gross tons with a length overall of 484 feet 6 inches. She had a total cargo capacity of 563,160 cubic feet, of which 12,780 cubic feet was available for refrigerated cargo. Her 6 cylinder, 2 cycle, single acting diesel engine gave her a service speed of 14.5 knots.

The Chantala was designed to be a cadet training ship, and she operated in this role from March 1950 until May 1966. Originally, accommodation was provided for 31 cadets in 2 dormitories and an adjacent cabin, all situated on the port side of the shelter deck. Each dormitory had 14 bunks, arranged in 7 tiers of 2, and the cabin provided accommodation for the senior cadet, referred to as a Chief Petty Officer, and his 2 deputies, referred to as Petty Officers. The cadets also had their own separate lounge and dining room.

Chantala carried a full-time cadet instructor officer, who was responsible for ensuring that cadets received structured training, some of which was conducted in a purpose built classroom.

In 1954, cadet numbers were increased to 39 by using cabins originally set aside for seamen, and then, in 1959, Chantala ceased carrying passengers, and the number of cadets was increased to 52. Chantala’s training ship role changed in 1966, and she then became a “cadet training unit”, carrying 16 cadets, a role in which she continued until she was sold in 1971.

Photographs and anecdotes are a great way to show that cadets not only worked hard but played hard.

Any material that you would like to display would be most gratefully received.

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