SS Sardinia (1888)

History
Name
  • Gulf of Corcovado (1888–99)
  • Paolo V (1899–1902)
  • Sardinia (1902–08)
Owner
  • Greenock Steam Ship Co Ltd (1888–99)
  • Gulf Line Ltd (1899)
  • P Viale di GB (1899–1902)
  • Ellerman Lines Ltd (1902–08)
BuilderHawthorn Leslie and Company, Hebburn, England
Yard number280
Launched25 June 1888
CompletedAugust 1888
IdentificationReg. Number: 93204
FateDestroyed by fire 25 November 1908
General characteristics
TypePassenger-cargo ship
Tonnage
Length310 ft (94 m)
Draught22.6 ft (6.9 m)
Installed powerTriple-expansion engine
PropulsionScrew propeller

SS Sardinia was a passenger-cargo ship which caught fire off Malta's Grand Harbour on 25 November 1908, resulting in at least 118 deaths. The ship was carrying Moroccan pilgrims on the way to Mecca. It is believed that a cooking fire on deck accidentally ignited nitrate in one of the ship's cargo holds, resulting in a number of explosions and causing the ship to run aground.

The vessel had been built in 1888 and had previously been known as Gulf of Corcovado and Paolo V.