HMS Warrior was launched on 29 December 1860.

HMS Warrior (1860), a revolutionary iron-hulled warship. It was launched on 29 December 1860.

HMS Warrior (1860) was the first iron-hulled, armored battleship and represented a significant advancement in naval technology during the mid-19th century. It was part of a new breed of warships known as ironclads and played a pivotal role in naval warfare during its time.

This launch marked a milestone in naval history as HMS Warrior represented a departure from traditional wooden warships, showcasing the transition to iron and steel in naval construction. Today, HMS Warrior (1860) is preserved as a museum ship in Portsmouth, England, allowing visitors to explore and learn about its historical significance.

 

26 December - German battleship Scharnhorst was sunk in the Battle of the North Cape

 

On 26 December 1943, during World War II, the German battleship Scharnhorst was sunk in the Battle of the North Cape. The Battle of the North Cape was part of the larger Arctic Convoys, where Allied forces were providing military aid to the Soviet Union.

The Scharnhorst, a German battleship of the Kriegsmarine, was part of the German Navy's surface fleet. In an attempt to intercept an Allied convoy, the Scharnhorst engaged British naval forces, including the battleship HMS Duke of York and other ships.

During the battle on 26 December 1943, the Scharnhorst was heavily damaged by British naval gunfire. Torpedoes from British destroyers further crippled the battleship. In the end, the Scharnhorst sank in the frigid waters of the Barents Sea. The engagement marked a significant victory for the Allies and was a blow to the German Navy.

The sinking of the Scharnhorst contributed to the reduction of German naval capabilities and increased the security of Arctic convoys supplying the Soviet Union. The Battle of the North Cape demonstrated the effectiveness of Allied naval forces in countering the German surface fleet during the later stages of World War II.

 

14 December - INS Kalvari commissioned in 2017

 

INS Kalvari is a Scorpene-class submarine and is the first of six submarines built under Project 75 by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited for the Indian Navy. The submarine was commissioned on December 14, 2017. The Scorpene-class submarines are a class of diesel-electric attack submarines and are considered one of the most advanced conventional submarines in the world.

INS Kalvari, named after the first Foxtail fish, plays a crucial role in enhancing the Indian Navy's underwater capabilities. These submarines are designed to operate in all theatres, with the ability to undertake various types of missions such as anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and intelligence gathering.

It's advisable to check official and recent sources for the latest updates and information about INS Kalvari or any other naval vessel.

 

27 November - Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) retired from active service 2008

The Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) was a famous ocean liner that served as a Cunard Line flagship for nearly 40 years. Launched on 20 September 1967, the QE2 became an iconic symbol of luxury travel, crossing the Atlantic Ocean numerous times and undertaking world cruises. It was known for its elegant design and played a significant role in maritime history.

The QE2 was retired from active Cunard service on 27 November 2008, and after changing ownership, it was eventually transformed into a floating hotel in Dubai. The ship's legacy continues to be remembered as a symbol of a bygone era of transatlantic ocean travel.

23 November - HMS Rawalpindi is sunk by the German battleships Scharnhorst and Gneisenau in 1939

 

On November 23, 1939, during the early stages of World War II, the British Royal Navy's heavy cruiser HMS Rawalpindi encountered the German battleships Scharnhorst and Gneisenau in the waters of the North Atlantic. The engagement took place while Rawalpindi was on patrol in an attempt to locate German merchant raiders.

Despite being heavily outgunned, HMS Rawalpindi engaged the German warships in battle. The British cruiser fought bravely, but it was eventually overwhelmed by the superior firepower of Scharnhorst and Gneisenau. As a result, HMS Rawalpindi was sunk, and a significant number of her crew lost their lives.

This naval engagement was part of the larger naval operations in the early years of World War II, particularly the efforts to control sea routes and protect shipping lanes. The sinking of HMS Rawalpindi highlighted the potency of the German naval forces, especially the Scharnhorst-class battleships, during the early stages of the conflict.

 

17 November - The Suez Canal was officially inaugurated in 1869

 

The Suez Canal, linking the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea, was officially inaugurated on November 17, 1869. The construction of the canal was a significant engineering achievement and had a profound impact on global trade and transportation. The canal provided a direct maritime route between Europe and Asia, eliminating the need for a lengthy and dangerous journey around the southern tip of Africa.

The Suez Canal played a crucial role in facilitating the movement of goods and reducing travel time for ships. It became a key strategic waterway and has been the focus of international attention and geopolitical considerations throughout its history. The control and management of the Suez Canal have been subjects of various conflicts and negotiations over the years.

15 November - INS Delhi commissioned in 1997

 

INS Delhi is the lead ship of her class of guided-missile destroyers of the Indian Navy. She was built at the Mazagon Dock Limited in Mumbai and commissioned on 15 November 1997. This class is among the largest warships to be designed and built in India.
INS Delhi is the second vessel of the Indian Navy to bear the name. She inherits the mantle from the Leander class cruiser of the same name, which had an illustrious career in the Portuguese-Indian War of 1961, during the liberation of Goa, Daman and Diu.

14 November - Robert Fulton born

 

Robert Fulton (November 14, 1765 – February 24, 1815) was an American engineer and inventor who is widely credited with developing the world's first commercially successful steamboat, the North River Steamboat (also known as Clermont). In 1807, that steamboat traveled on the Hudson River with passengers from New York City to Albany and back again, a round trip of 300 nautical miles (560 kilometers), in 62 hours. The success of his steamboat changed river traffic and trade on major American rivers.

In 1800, Fulton had been commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte, leader of France, to attempt to design a submarine; he produced Nautilus, the first practical submarine in history.Fulton is also credited with inventing some of the world's earliest naval torpedoes for use by the Royal Navy.

Fulton became interested in steam engines and the idea of steamboats in 1777 when he was around age 12 and visited state delegate William Henry of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, who was interested in this topic. Henry had learned about inventor James Watt and his Watt steam engine on an earlier visit to England.

09 November - SMS Emden is sunk by HMAS Sydney in the Battle of Cocos

 

The sinking of SMS Emden by HMAS Sydney in the Battle of Cocos on November 9, 1914, is a significant event in naval history during World War I. SMS Emden was a German light cruiser that had been conducting raiding operations in the Indian Ocean, disrupting British and Allied shipping.

In the Battle of Cocos, HMAS Sydney, an Australian light cruiser, engaged SMS Emden off the Cocos Islands, which were under British control. The engagement resulted in the sinking of SMS Emden, marking a major victory for the Allies in the early stages of World War I.

The battle is notable for its swift and decisive nature, with HMAS Sydney's superior firepower and maneuverability overwhelming SMS Emden. The sinking of SMS Emden brought an end to its successful raiding activities and was a morale boost for the Allies.

The Battle of Cocos is remembered as an important naval engagement during World War I and is a part of the broader history of naval warfare in the early 20th century.

27 October - Captain James Cook birth anniversary

 

Captain James Cook was a British explorer and navigator known for his significant voyages in the 18th century. Here is a brief note about him, including his birth and death dates:

• Born: October 27, 1728
• Died: February 14, 1779

James Cook's notable achievements:

1. Exploration: Cook is renowned for his extensive voyages in the Pacific Ocean. He made three major expeditions during his lifetime, exploring and mapping areas such as the eastern coast of Australia, the islands of the South Pacific, and the west coast of North America.

2. Mapping: Cook's expeditions greatly contributed to the accurate mapping of previously unknown parts of the world. His detailed charts and maps proved invaluable for later explorers and navigators.

3. Scientific Contributions: Cook's voyages also had a significant impact on the fields of natural history, botany, and ethnography. He and his crew documented and collected numerous plant and animal specimens, as well as cultural information about the indigenous peoples they encountered.

4. Pacific Islands: Cook is often credited with being the first European to reach the eastern coast of Australia and the Hawaiian Islands, among other places. His voyages played a pivotal role in opening up the Pacific region to European exploration and trade.

5. Legacy: James Cook's expeditions laid the foundation for further exploration of the Pacific and contributed to the expansion of British influence in the region. His legacy endures in the many places and features named after him, such as Cook Islands, Cook Inlet, and the Cook Strait.

James Cook's contributions to exploration, navigation, and the advancement of knowledge about the Pacific and its peoples have left a lasting impact on history. His birth on October 27, 1728, and his tragic death in Hawaii on February 14, 1779, mark the life of a remarkable explorer and navigator whose achievements continue to be celebrated and studied today.

 

25 October 1616 - Dirk Hartog Discovered Australia using the ship "Eendracht"

 

Dirk Hartog was a Dutch sea captain and explorer known for making one of the earliest recorded European landings on the western coast of Australia. On October 25, 1616, he arrived at what is now known as Dirk Hartog Island, off the coast of Shark Bay in Western Australia. using the ship "Eendracht." The Eendracht was a Dutch East India Company (VOC) vessel. Hartog's landing is significant because it marked one of the first documented European contacts with the Australian continent.

During his time on Dirk Hartog Island, he left an inscribed pewter plate, known as the Dirk Hartog Plate, which is considered one of the earliest European artifacts found in Australia. The plate provided valuable evidence of the Dutch exploration of the Australian coastline during the early 17th century.

It's important to note that Dirk Hartog's landing did not result in the extensive exploration or colonization of Australia, as this would occur later by other European explorers, particularly the British, in the 18th century.

09 October - Columbus Day

 

Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. It is observed on the second Monday in October each year. Columbus Day was first celebrated as a holiday in the United States in 1792 to mark the 300th anniversary of Columbus's historic voyage.

The holiday has traditionally been associated with the Italian-American community, as Christopher Columbus was of Italian descent, and it serves as a day to celebrate Italian heritage and contributions to American culture. Parades, events, and festivities often take place in cities with significant Italian-American populations.

However, Columbus Day has also been a subject of controversy and debate. Some people argue that Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas initiated a period of European colonization that had devastating consequences for indigenous peoples, including violence, disease, and displacement. In recent years, there has been a growing movement to recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day as an alternative to Columbus Day, which aims to acknowledge and celebrate the cultures, contributions, and resilience of Native Americans.

In response to these concerns and changing perspectives, some states and localities in the United States have chosen to either replace or rename Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day or another holiday that recognizes the history and contributions of indigenous peoples.

Columbus Day continues to be observed in various forms across the United States, but its significance and the way it is celebrated may vary from one region to another, reflecting the ongoing dialogue about the holiday's historical and cultural implications.

 

SS Vaitarna disappeared on 8 November 1888

 

 

 

 

SS Vaitarna, popularly known as Vijli or Haji Kasam ni Vijli, was a steamship owned by A J Shepherd & Co, Bombay that disappeared on 8 November 1888 off the coast of Saurashtra region of Gujarat in a cyclonic storm during a crossing from Mandvi to Bombay. More than 740 people on board went missing in the disaster. The incident resulted in the creation of nautical lore and songs

She was named Vaitarna after Vaitarna river of Bombay Presidency. She was nicknamed Vijli, literally electricity, as the ship was lit with electric bulbs.The ship is often dubbed the "Titanic of Gujarat" even though RMS Titanic sank 24 years later.

SS Vaitarna was the first steamship built by Grangemouth Dockyard Co. Ltd., Grangemouth and launched in 1885. She was schooner made of steel and took three years to complete. This screw steamer had three floors and twenty five cabins. She had a single funnel, two masts and a fore-and-aft rigged sail furled against the forward mast.Her register tonnage were 292 GRT, 63 NRT, and 258 under deck. Her compound steam engines had two cylinders with 21" diameter and had stroke of 42" and 30" generating 73 Horsepower. These engines were built by Dunsmuir & Jackson, Glasgow. She was owned by A J Shepherd & Co, Bombay and was registered in Glasgow. She was 170.1 feet long, 26.5 feet broad and 9.9 feet deep. It was brought to Karachi by traveling around Africa for a maiden trip to Bombay.

She traded between Mandvi, Kutch State and Bombay ferrying passengers and goods. She took 30 hours to travel from Mandvi to Bombay at a fare of Rs 8.The ships of the region were not designed to mitigate storms as they generally travel along the coast from port to port during calm seasons and were laid up in harbor during stormy monsoon sea.

SS Vaitarna was anchored on Mandvi port on 8 November 1888, Thursday (Vikram Samvat 1945 Kartik Sud Pancham), at noon and she left for Dwarka after taking 520 passengers on board. She reached Dwarka and had some more passengers on board, reaching 703 in number. She left for Porbandar. Though according to lores, Porbandar port administrator Lelie told the Captain not to venture into the sea, but later research did not supported the claim. Due to bad weather she did not stop at Porbandar and directly headed for Bombay. At evening, she was seen off the coast of Mangrol, and later at night some people claimed that she was seen wrecking near Madhavpur (Ghed) amid severe storm. The next day she was declared missing.

No bodies or debris of the ship was found. She was assumed to be wrecked in a cyclonic storm in the Arabian Sea.Though the folklores states casualty of 1300 people,there were 746 people (703 passengers and 43 crew members) on board who went missing in the disaster.The other numbers reported are 798,741 (38 crew member and 703 passengers) and 744.There were thirteen wedding parties and several students who headed for Bombay to appear in the matriculation examination of Bombay University in December.

Kasam Ibrahim or Haji Kasam was the captain of the ship. He was an aristocrat from Kutch holding tracts of land between Borivali and Dahisar in Bombay. He had his office at Abdul Rehman Street and he lived at Malabar Hill. It is also believed that he was blessed by Fakir that he will own 99 ships and Vijli was his last. Haji Kasam Chawl in Bombay Central is named after him.

The incident resulted in formation of many nautical lores, myths, legends and songs over the years and became popular in folklore of Gujarat. The ship was popularly referred to as Vijli in folklore and is chiefly associated with its captain Kasam Ibrahim. There was also Haji Kasam Noor Mohammed, a booking agent of Shepherd at Porbandar.

After the disappearance of the ship, a poet from Jamnagar, Durlabhrai V. Shyamji Dhruv published a collection of songs titled Vijli Vilap. Bhikharam Savji Joshi also published another collection in the same name. Jhaverchand Meghani collected and published one of such songs in his folksong collection, Radhiyali Raat, titled "Haji Kasam, Tari Vijli Re Madhdariye Veran Thai" (Gujarati: "હાજી કાસમ, તારી વીજળી રે મધદરિયે વેરણ થઈ"). Gujarati author Gunvantrai Acharya wrote a fiction titled, Haji Kasam Tari Vijli (1954) based on the incident.

Y. M. Chitalwala, a researcher based in Dhoraji researched the incident and documented it in Vijli Haji Kasamni published by Darshak Itihas Nidhi in 2010.

In the preface of Twin Tales from Kutcch: A family saga set in Colonial India, Saeed Ibrahim has mentioned that he lost his grandparents in the event.

A film based on the incident, Vijli: Mystery of the Phantom Ship, directed by Dhwanil Mehta and starring Rana Daggubati, was announced in 2017 with story written by Yogesh Joshi. No further updates were provided.

I am in lookout for any philatic or any other material related to the above

The Bombay Port : Also known as the Mumbai Port

 

The Bombay Port, also known as the Mumbai Port, is one of the oldest and most significant ports in India. It has a long history dating back to the colonial era. The Bombay Port was officially established in the 17th century during British rule.

Here's a brief historical overview of the establishment of the Bombay Port:

1. Early History: Prior to the British establishment of the port, Bombay (now Mumbai) was a collection of islands along the western coast of India. The natural harbor of Bombay was recognized for its strategic importance by various rulers and traders throughout history.

2. East India Company: The British East India Company played a crucial role in the development of the Bombay Port. The company obtained Bombay as part of the dowry of Princess Catherine of Braganza when she married King Charles II of England in 1661.

3. Formal Establishment: In 1668, the East India Company appointed a naval officer named Gerald Aungier as the Governor of Bombay. Aungier recognized the potential of Bombay's natural harbor and took steps to develop it into a proper port. This marked the formal establishment of the Bombay Port.

4. Development: Over the years, the British administration invested in the development and expansion of the port infrastructure. This included the construction of docks, wharves, and other facilities to facilitate maritime trade.

5. Trade Hub: The Bombay Port played a vital role in the British colonial trade network. It served as a key hub for the import and export of goods, connecting India with British colonies and other parts of the world.

6. Post-Independence: After India gained independence from British colonial rule in 1947, the Bombay Port continued to be a significant maritime trade gateway. However, with the development of other ports in India, particularly the Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Nhava Sheva), the importance of the Bombay Port has somewhat diminished in terms of container handling. Nevertheless, it remains an essential part of Mumbai's infrastructure and continues to handle various types of cargo.

Today, the Mumbai Port continues to be a crucial maritime gateway for the city of Mumbai and the surrounding region, playing a vital role in trade and commerce in western India.

 

30 August - The HMS Pandora sank in 1791

 

The HMS Pandora, a British Royal Navy ship, did indeed sink after running aground on the outer Great Barrier Reef on August 29, 1791. The ship was sent on a mission to capture the mutineers from the famous HMS Bounty, who had taken control of the ship and sailed it to Tahiti.

After capturing some of the mutineers, the HMS Pandora continued its journey but encountered treacherous waters and strong currents on the outer Great Barrier Reef. The ship struck a reef and began to take on water. Despite efforts to save the ship, it eventually sank on August 30, 1791. The incident resulted in the loss of several crew members, including some of the captured mutineers, as well as a significant amount of valuable cargo.

The wreck of the HMS Pandora was discovered in the late 20th century, and it has since become an important historical and archaeological site. The shipwreck provides insights into maritime history and the events surrounding the famous mutiny on the HMS Bounty.

The Roanoke Voyages during the late 16th century

 

The Roanoke Voyages refer to a series of expeditions to establish an English colony in the Americas during the late 16th century. The most well-known of these voyages is often referred to as the "Lost Colony" due to the mysterious disappearance of the settlers.

1. First Roanoke Voyage (1584): Sponsored by Sir Walter Raleigh, an English explorer, the first expedition was led by Arthur Barlowe and Philip Amadas. They explored the coast of what is now North Carolina and established friendly relations with local Native American tribes. Their positive reports about the region inspired further expeditions.

2. Second Roanoke Voyage (1585-1586): This expedition, led by Sir Richard Grenville and Ralph Lane, aimed to establish a colony on Roanoke Island. However, due to tensions with the Native Americans and a lack of supplies, the colony struggled. When Sir Francis Drake arrived to offer assistance in 1586, the colonists chose to return to England with him.

3. Third Roanoke Voyage (1587): John White led this expedition, which aimed to establish a more permanent colony on Roanoke Island. White returned to England for supplies, leaving behind a group of colonists, including his granddaughter Virginia Dare, who was the first English child born in the New World. When White returned in 1590, he found the colony abandoned, with the only clue being the word "CROATOAN" carved into a post.

The fate of the Roanoke colonists remains a historical mystery. The term "Croatoan" referred to a nearby island and a Native American tribe. Some theories suggest that the settlers may have integrated with local tribes or relocated to a different area. Despite various archaeological and historical investigations, the exact fate of the "Lost Colony" continues to elude researchers.

The Roanoke Voyages are significant in the history of English colonization in the Americas and are often seen as a prelude to the more successful establishment of Jamestown, Virginia, in 1607. The mystery surrounding the fate of the settlers has captured the imagination of historians and storytellers for centuries.

 

17 August - Robert Fulton's the first steamboat in public service

 

Clermont, byname of North River Steamboat of Clermont, the first steamboat in public service (1807), designed by American engineer Robert Fulton and built in New York City by Charles Brown with the financial backing of Robert Livingston.

Although named North River Steamboat of Clermont, it became known as the Clermont. The steamboat was 133 feet (41 metres) long and 12 feet (4 metres) wide and had a draft of 2 feet (0.6 metre). Engines built by Boulton and Watt in England drove the two side paddle wheels, each of which were 15 feet (5 metres) in diameter. On its first voyage, August 17, 1807, the Clermont averaged close to 5 miles (about 8 km) per hour for the 150 miles (240 km) up the Hudson River to Albany, New York. The Clermont inaugurated the first profitable venture in steam navigation, carrying paying passengers between Albany and New York City.

04 August - US Coast Guard Day

 

US Coast Guard Day is observed annually on August 4th to commemorate the founding of the United States Coast Guard (USCG). On this day, the nation honors the men and women who serve in the Coast Guard and their contributions to safeguarding the country's maritime interests and protecting its waters.

The US Coast Guard was established on August 4, 1790, when President George Washington signed into law the Tariff Act, which authorized the construction of ten revenue cutters to enforce federal tariff and trade laws and prevent smuggling. These early cutters, which were the predecessors of the modern Coast Guard, played a vital role in protecting American ports and ensuring the security of the nation's coastal waters.

Over the years, the Coast Guard's mission has evolved and expanded to include various roles such as search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement, environmental protection, ice breaking, and maintaining navigational aids, among others.

On US Coast Guard Day, various events and ceremonies are held across the country to pay tribute to the service and dedication of Coast Guard members. It is a day to recognize their bravery, commitment to duty, and the sacrifices they make to protect and serve the American people and the nation's maritime interests.

28 July - S.S Komagata Maru was forced to leave Vancouver in 1914

 

On 28 July 1914, The S.S Komagata Maru was forced to leave Vancouver and sailed for India.

The Komagata Maru incident involved the Japanese steamship Komagata Maru, on which a group of citizens of the British Raj attempted to emigrate to Canada in 1914, but were denied entry and forced to return to Calcutta (present-day Kolkata), India. There they were fired upon by Indian Imperial Police, resulting in the deaths of 20 Sikhs.

Komagata Maru sailed from British Hong Kong, via Shanghai, China, and Yokohama, Japan, to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, in 1914, carrying 376 passengers from Punjab, British India. Of them, 24 were admitted to Canada, but the other 352 passengers were not allowed to disembark in Canada, and the ship was forced to return to India.The passengers comprised 337 Sikhs, 27 Muslims and 12 Hindus, all Punjabis and British subjects. This was one of several incidents in the early 20th century in which exclusion laws in Canada and the United States were used to exclude immigrants of Asian origin.

08 July - Vasco da Gama set sail on his first voyage in 1497

 

On 8 July 1497, Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama set sail on his first voyage, which would eventually lead to the discovery of a sea route from Europe to India. Da Gama's expedition was commissioned by the Portuguese king, Manuel I, with the objective of finding a direct maritime route to India, bypassing the overland routes controlled by the Ottoman Empire.

Da Gama commanded a fleet of four vessels, including his flagship, the São Gabriel, along with the São Rafael, the Berrio, and a supply ship. The crew consisted of about 170 men, including sailors, soldiers, and interpreters. They departed from Lisbon, Portugal, and embarked on a perilous journey across the Atlantic Ocean, along the western coast of Africa.

The voyage was fraught with numerous challenges, including treacherous weather, unfamiliar territories, and scarcity of supplies. The crew faced sickness, hunger, and the loss of lives during the voyage. Nevertheless, da Gama's determination and navigational skills allowed him to overcome these obstacles.

After navigating along the African coast, Vasco da Gama reached the southern tip of Africa, which he named the Cape of Good Hope. From there, he continued eastward, crossing the Indian Ocean. On 20 May 1498, after several months at sea, da Gama's expedition finally made landfall at the port of Calicut (now Kozhikode) on the southwestern coast of India.

This significant achievement established the first direct sea route from Europe to India, opening up lucrative trade opportunities and solidifying Portugal's position as a major maritime power. Da Gama's successful voyage paved the way for subsequent Portuguese expeditions and the establishment of Portuguese colonies and trading posts throughout the Indian Ocean, shaping the course of history in the Age of Exploration.

 

The Battle of Midway

 

The Battle of Midway was a crucial naval battle that took place from June 4 to June 7, 1942, during World War II. It was fought between the United States and the Empire of Japan in the Pacific Theater.

The battle occurred six months after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and marked a turning point in the war in the Pacific. The Japanese sought to eliminate the remaining United States Pacific Fleet aircraft carriers, which they considered a threat to their expansion in the Pacific.

The battle primarily took place near the Midway Atoll, a strategic island located roughly halfway between the United States and Japan. The United States had intercepted Japanese communications and knew the general plans of the Japanese fleet, enabling them to prepare a defense.

The American forces, led by Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, were outnumbered but managed to surprise the Japanese fleet. Through a combination of strategic planning, effective intelligence, and bravery, the U.S. forces inflicted severe damage on the Japanese fleet, sinking four of their aircraft carriers.

The Battle of Midway was a decisive victory for the United States. It not only halted Japanese expansion in the Pacific but also severely weakened their naval capabilities. The battle shifted the balance of power in the Pacific in favor of the United States and marked a turning point in the war.

The Battle of Midway is often considered one of the most significant naval battles in history. It demonstrated the importance of intelligence, airpower, and naval strategy, and it boosted American morale while dealing a significant blow to Japanese forces.

31 May - The RMS Titanic is launched in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

 

The RMS Titanic, a famous British passenger liner, was indeed launched on May 31, 1911, in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The ship was constructed by the shipbuilding company Harland and Wolff at their shipyard in Belfast. The launch of the Titanic was a highly anticipated event as it was one of the largest and most luxurious ships of its time.

The Titanic was part of the White Star Line fleet and was built to be the ultimate luxury liner, boasting advanced technologies and lavish amenities. It was designed to provide a high level of comfort and opulence for its passengers, with luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining areas, and extensive recreational facilities.

However, tragically, the RMS Titanic's maiden voyage ended in disaster. On April 14, 1912, the ship struck an iceberg in the North Atlantic Ocean and sank in the early hours of April 15, resulting in the loss of more than 1,500 lives. The sinking of the Titanic remains one of the most well-known maritime disasters in history.

The launch of the Titanic was a significant moment in maritime history, representing a remarkable achievement in shipbuilding and design. Despite its tragic fate, the Titanic continues to capture the public's imagination and serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerability of even the most grand and seemingly unsinkable creations.

ON THIS DAY: - 31st May 1911

ON THIS DAY: - 31st May 1911

Titanic was launched, built for the White Star Line by Harland & Wolff in Belfast and when completed she sailed from Belfast on 2nd April 1912, bound for Southampton.

(Pictures of the stamps shown here are Library Pictures)

30 May - Christopher Columbus embarked on his third voyage to the Americas in 1948

 

Christopher Columbus embarked on his third voyage to the Americas with a fleet of six ships on 30 May 1498. This voyage took place in 1498, following his initial voyages in 1492 and 1493. The purpose of Columbus's third expedition was to continue exploring and expanding the territories claimed by Spain.

The fleet consisted of three ships that were carried over from his second voyage: the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria. Additionally, three new ships were added to the expedition: the Santiago de Palos, the San Cristobal, and the San Juan Bautista. These six vessels set sail from the Spanish port of Sanlúcar de Barrameda in present-day southwestern Spain.

Columbus's third voyage differed from his previous ones in terms of the route he took. Instead of heading directly west across the Atlantic, he opted for a more southern route. He sailed along the coast of South America, exploring the regions of present-day Venezuela, Trinidad, and the islands of the Caribbean.

During this expedition, Columbus encountered various challenges and hardships. The voyagers faced severe storms, navigational difficulties, and tensions among the crew. Additionally, they struggled with adverse weather conditions, such as hurricanes and strong currents.

Columbus's exploration during his third voyage contributed to expanding European knowledge of the American continents. He explored parts of the South American mainland, including the Orinoco River, and continued to search for valuable resources and trade routes.

Despite his efforts, Columbus did not achieve all of his objectives during this voyage. His inability to find significant quantities of gold and his clashes with indigenous populations led to growing discontent among the crew. As a result, Columbus faced criticism and opposition upon his return to Spain.

Nonetheless, Columbus's third voyage remains an important chapter in the history of European exploration and the colonization of the Americas. It furthered European understanding of the vastness and diversity of the New World and contributed to the ongoing process of European expansion and colonization in the following centuries.

The British navy sinks the German battleship Bismarck on 27 May 1941

 

On May 27, 1941, the British navy sinks the German battleship Bismarck in the North Atlantic near France. The German death toll was more than 2,000.

On February 14, 1939, the 823-foot Bismarck was launched at Hamburg. Nazi leader Adolf Hitler hoped that the state-of-the-art battleship would herald the rebirth of the German surface battle fleet. However, after the outbreak of war, Britain closely guarded ocean routes from Germany to the Atlantic Ocean, and only U-boats moved freely through the war zone.

In May 1941, the order was given for the Bismarck to break out into the Atlantic. Once in the safety of the open ocean, the battleship would be almost impossible to track down, all the while wreaking havoc on Allied convoys to Britain. Learning of its movement, Britain sent almost the entire British Home Fleet in pursuit. On May 24, the British battle cruiser Hood and battleship Prince of Wales intercepted it near Iceland. In a ferocious battle, the Hood exploded and sank, and all but three of the 1,421 crewmen were killed. The Bismarck escaped, but because it was leaking fuel it fled for occupied France.

On May 26, the ship was sighted and crippled by British aircraft, and on May 27 three British warships descended on the Bismarck, inflicting heavy damage. By mid-morning, the pride of the German navy had become a floating wreck with numerous fires aboard, unable to steer and with her guns almost useless because she was listing badly to port. Soon, the command went out to scuttle the ship, and the Bismarck quickly sank. Of a 2,221-man crew, only 115 survived. 

I am in search of the above MS

Christopher columbus 4th voyage to the New World

 

Christopher Columbus did indeed embark on a fourth and final voyage to the New World, although he did not leave from Spain. Instead, he departed from the port of Cádiz, in southern Spain, on May 9, 1502, with a fleet of four ships.

Columbus's fourth voyage was marked by a number of difficulties and setbacks. His ships were old and in poor condition, and his crew was mutinous and prone to desertion. Columbus encountered several storms and navigational challenges, and he was forced to make several stops in the Caribbean and Central America in search of supplies and provisions.

During his fourth voyage, Columbus explored the coasts of Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, and he discovered the island of Martinique. However, he did not find the riches and treasures he had hoped for, and he was often in conflict with local indigenous people.

Columbus's fourth voyage lasted for about two years, and it was marked by disease, hardship, and disappointment. Columbus returned to Spain in November 1504, and he was largely ignored by the Spanish court and left to live out his remaining years in obscurity.

Christopher Columbus landed on the island of Jamaica on 05 May 1494

 

On 5 May 1494, Christopher Columbus landed on the island of Jamaica and claimed it for Spain.

Christopher Columbus, was an Italian explorer, navigator, and colonist who completed four voyages across the Atlantic Ocean under the auspices of the Catholic Monarchs of Spain. He led the first European expeditions to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, initiating the permanent European colonization of the Americas. Columbus discovered the viable sailing route to the Americas, a continent that was then unknown to the Old World. While what he thought he had discovered was a route to the Far East, he is credited with the opening of the Americas for conquest and settlement by Europeans.

Mutiny on the Bounty 28 April 1789

 

The mutiny on the Royal Navy vessel HMS Bounty occurred in the South Pacific Ocean on 28 April 1789. Disaffected crewmen, led by acting-Lieutenant Fletcher Christian, seized control of the ship from their captain, Lieutenant William Bligh, and set him and eighteen loyalists adrift in the ship's open launch. The mutineers variously settled on Tahiti or on Pitcairn Island. Bligh navigated more than 3,500 nautical miles (6,500 km; 4,000 mi) in the launch to reach safety and began the process of bringing the mutineers to justice.

Bounty had left England in 1787 on a mission to collect and transport breadfruit plants from Tahiti to the West Indies. A five-month layover in Tahiti, during which many of the men lived ashore and formed relationships with native Polynesians, led those men to be less amenable to military discipline. Relations between Bligh and his crew deteriorated after he allegedly began handing out increasingly harsh punishments, criticism, and abuse, Christian being a particular target. After three weeks back at sea, Christian and others forced Bligh from the ship. Twenty-five men remained on board afterwards, including loyalists held against their will and others for whom there was no room in the launch.

After Bligh reached England in April 1790, the Admiralty despatched HMS Pandora to apprehend the mutineers. Fourteen were captured in Tahiti and imprisoned on board Pandora, which then searched without success for Christian's party that had hidden on Pitcairn Island. After turning back towards England, Pandora ran aground on the Great Barrier Reef, with the loss of 31 crew and four prisoners from Bounty. The ten surviving detainees reached England in June 1792 and were court-martialled; four were acquitted, three were pardoned, and three were hanged.

Christian's group remained undiscovered on Pitcairn until 1808, by which time only one mutineer, John Adams, remained alive. Almost all of his fellow mutineers, including Christian, had been killed, either by one another or by their Polynesian companions. No action was taken against Adams; descendants of the mutineers and their accompanying Tahitians live on Pitcairn into the 21st century.

 

05 April - National Maritime Day in India

 

 

National Maritime Day 2022: This year, National Maritime Day is celebrated for the 59th time in India. The day is observed on April 5 to spread awareness about international trade and the economy.

What is the theme for the National Maritime Day 2022?
'New technologies for greener shipping' is the World Maritime theme for 2022, reflecting the need to support a green transition of the maritime sector into a sustainable future, while leaving no one behind.

Why April 5?

In 1919, it was on this day the first Indian commercial vessel had set sail from Mumbai to London — SS Loyalty, of Scindia Steam Navigation Company Ltd. This was also the first ever largest large scale shipping company which was entirely owned by Indians. And once the ship sailed, it was a historic moment for Indian Shipping as at that time the sea routes were under the control of the British.

April 5, 1964, was identified to spread awareness about intercontinental commerce and economy globally. This day is dedicated to the importance of maritime trade in India, as it holds a very strategic location. According to the data of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the country’s maritime trade is almost 95 percent and 70 percent by value.

The stamp pasted on the cover is the first Stamp on Indian Navy it was issued on 5th April 1965 to commemorate the National Maritime Day in the denomination of 0.15np. The stamp features the Freighter Jalausha and the port of Vishakapatnam.

Special Cover India 2022 – Vice Admiral E C Kuruvilla

 

Special Cover India 2022 – Vice Admiral E C Kuruvilla

Vice Admiral E C Kuruvilla was the Flag Officer Commanding of Western Fleet of Indian Navy during 1971 Indo-Pak War . He was awarded Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) for his role in the Operations. He was also Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Mazagaon Dock Limited . He was Fifth Commanding Officer of INS Vikrant.

A Special Cover was released on 26th Oct 2022 at Kochi to Commemorate his 100th Birth Anniversary.

I am in search of the above cover , if anyone has for exchange or sale let me know.

 

29 March - The Battle of Cape Matapan ended in 1941

 

The Battle of Cape Matapan  was a naval battle during the Second World War between the Allies, represented by the navies of the United Kingdom and Australia, and the Royal Italian navy, from 27 to 29 March 1941. Cape Matapan is on the south-western coast of the Peloponnesian Peninsula of Greece.

After the interception and decryption of Italian signals by the Government Code and Cypher School (GC&CS) at Bletchley Park (the decrypted intelligence codenamed Ultra),ships of the Royal Navy and Royal Australian Navy, under the command of Royal Navy Admiral Sir Andrew Cunningham, intercepted and sank or severely damaged several ships of the Italian Regia Marina under Squadron-Vice-Admiral Angelo Iachino. The opening actions of the battle are also known in Italy as the Battle of Gaudo.

10r Dhow - TRUCIAL STATES

 

TRUCIAL STATES
Stamps issued: 1961
10r Dhow single

A group of Arab sheikhdoms — Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujeira, Manama, Ras al Khaima, Sharjah and Kalba, and Umm al Qiwain — in eastern Arabia, bordering on the Persian Gulf. These states were under British protection from 1892-1971, joining to form the United Arab Emirates in 1971. In June 1963, Trucial States issues were replaced by those of the individual states, which, in turn, were superseded by those of the UAE in 1972.

 

I am in search of this stamp for my collection.

Robert Fulton - first commercially successful steamboat

 

Robert Fulton (November 14, 1765 – February 24, 1815) was an American engineer and inventor who is widely credited with developing the world's first commercially successful steamboat, the North River Steamboat (also known as Clermont). In 1807, that steamboat traveled on the Hudson River with passengers from New York City to Albany and back again, a round trip of 300 nautical miles (560 kilometers), in 62 hours. The success of his steamboat changed river traffic and trade on major American rivers.

In 1800, Fulton had been commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte, leader of France, to attempt to design a submarine; he produced Nautilus, the first practical submarine in history.Fulton is also credited with inventing some of the world's earliest naval torpedoes for use by the Royal Navy.

Fulton became interested in steam engines and the idea of steamboats in 1777 when he was around age 12 and visited state delegate William Henry of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, who was interested in this topic. Henry had learned about inventor James Watt and his Watt steam engine on an earlier visit to England.

Vasco da Gama's fleet visits the Island of Mozambique on 02 March 1498

 

Vasco da Gama, 1st Count of Vidigueira (1460s – 24 December 1524), was a Portuguese explorer and the first European to reach India by sea.

Vasco da Gama spent 2 to 29 March 1498 in the vicinity of Mozambique Island. Arab-controlled territory on the East African coast was an integral part of the network of trade in the Indian Ocean. Fearing the local population would be hostile to Christians, da Gama impersonated a Muslim and gained audience with the Sultan of Mozambique. With the paltry trade goods he had to offer, the explorer was unable to provide a suitable gift to the ruler. Soon the local populace became suspicious of da Gama and his men. Forced by a hostile crowd to flee Mozambique, da Gama departed the harbor, firing his cannons into the city in retaliation.

Paquebot meaning

 

 

Borrowed from French paquebot (“mailboat”). First used in Great Britain in 1894, the term was adopted for general use by the Universal Postal Union in 1897.

A postal marking or cancellation stamped on mail posted at sea or in a harbour for processing by the postal authorities at the next port of call. Mail so marked in one country will often carry the stamps of another country.

The word would typically be stamped in upper case, PAQUEBOT, on the postal item, but when described in text would be written with a capital P only, eg, Paquebot.
 

If you are aboard a ship on the open sea, the deck you are standing on is the territory of the country under which flag the ship sails. This means, if you write a letter on a ship in international waters, you are able to use the stamps of the country of the ship. Additionally the officer can hand over the mail to the local post office at any port anywhere in the world and the mail will be delivered without additional charge.

To mark such a special letter as such, Paquebot cancellations are used.

Here we can see three other forms of paquebot marking. 'LOOSE SHIP LETTER' was marked at Melbourne from 1894 to 1930. 

'PAQUETE = BOTE' was marked at port Davao, St. Cruz Isles in 1929. 'PACKET-BOAT originated at Honolulu in 1903.

We find 'Posted on Steamer', 'Ship Letter', 'Packet-Letter', 'Piroscafo', 'Paqu', 'Parquet', 'Ship Mail', 'Vapor', 'Paquebot ou Navire', 'Paq.', 'Steamboat', 'Fra Skib', 'Skibsbrjef', 'Schiffsbrief', 'Paquete', etc. etc....

Pearl Harbor - Dec. 7, 1941

 

This miniature sheet depicts events of Dec. 7, 1941, at Pearl Harbor. The battleship USS Oklahoma (BB-37) was sunk at the pier (eventually righted, salvaged and decommissioned); Medal of Honor posthumous awardee Ensign Herbert C. Jones (for actions on the battleship USS California); in the background of the stamp the explosion of the forward magazine of the destroyer USS Shaw (DD-373) is shown. A Day of Infamy in U.S. history.

Contemporary Wood Design -Slovenija- maker of Bled "pletna" boats

 

Anže Logar – maker of Bled "pletna" boats

Ane Logar, who creates exquisite wooden boats at Zazero na Mlinem in Bled, is among the best contemporary artisans who use wood as their primary material. His major offering is the pletna, the recognisable wooden boat that has been a fixture of Lake Bled for decades.


According to certain documents, these vessels were first employed in the 12th century to transport building supplies to the island.The boats were initially referred to as ledenice and then plitvice.
The testimonies from the second half of the 16th century, which describe pilgrims being transported to the island by boats, are more trustworthy. It is unknown exactly when the term "pletna" first appeared.
But because of this, people are aware of its etymology, which reveals that this was a flat-bottomed ship known as Plätten in Bavarian German and Plette, Plettn in Carinthian German.Flat-bottomed boats were referred to as plata or platta in Latin.The Pletna, which has dimensions of 7-8 metres and 2 metres and can accommodate up to 20 people, is the typical Bled boat.The craft is driven standing up (using the "Stehruder" technique) by specially trained pletnarji while utilising two oars.

For ages, the ability to row these boats has been passed down from father to son. On Lake Bled, there are currently 23 of these boats. In addition to the iconic Bled boat, Anže Logar makes other outstanding wooden craft.

Philippine Indigenous Boats – 2021

 

 Philippines issued a Miniature sheet on Indigenous Boats called Bancas. The 55 Peso Miniature sheet was issued on 18 May 2021. The miniature sheet also features fishing boats , rowing boats , & Sailing ships. It is also the National Heritage Month issue.

Bancas or Bangka is used for native watercraft of Philippines , initially it referred to double-outrigger dugout canoes used in shallow waters but now it refers to ships and other larger watercrafts with or without outriggers.

The Indian Coast Guard established on 1 February 1977

 

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is an Armed Force of the Union of India for ensuring the security of the maritime zones of India with a view to the protection of maritime and other national interests in such zones and for matters connected therewith. The Indian Coast Guard was formally established on 1 February 1977 by the Coast Guard Act, 1978 of the Parliament of India. It operates under the Ministry of Defence.

The Coast Guard works in close cooperation with the Indian Navy, the Department of Fisheries, the Department of Revenue (Customs), and the Central Armed Police Forces, and the State Police Services.

Turtle ship or Geobukseon - Royal Korean Navy

 

Large warships of the sort known as the Turtle ship or Geobukseon were employed by the Royal Korean Navy, most notably in the late 16th-century Imjin War with Japan.
This stamp, Scott No. 225, was created by Kang Bak, printed by lithography, and issued by (South) Korea on November 11, 1955 to honour the 10th anniversary of the Republic of Korea Navy. It features a statue of Korean naval commander and national hero Admiral Yi Sun-shin (1545–1598), the Korean Naval jack, and one of Yi's Turtle ships. It also includes a picture of a Turtle ship that has been rebuilt and is on display at the War Memorial Museum in Seoul

 

 

Norden by the Sea II – Rescue Service

 

 

 

 

This information is supplied by Iceland Post

Norden by the Sea II – Rescue Service

Search and rescue services constitute the theme of the 2012 Norden stamps.

For centuries, Icelandic fishermen have lived with the dangers of the sea. Many lives have been lost in the struggle with the forces of nature. The Icelandic Coast Guard and Landsbjörg, the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR), cooperate closely in rescue operations when perils threaten at sea or on land. The professionalism of the Icelandic rescue teams have attracted worldwide attention.

The Coast Guard plays a key role in rescue at sea with its powerful helicopters, ships and planes. The Coast Guard has at its disposal two planes, two helicopters and three ships, Ægir, Týr and Þór. The present stamp commemorates the rescue operations of March 9th 2004 when TF Líf, the Coast Guard helicopter, rescued sixteen crew members of the fishing vessel Baldvin Thorsteinsson EA 10. The vessel went ashore in the South of Iceland after it’s capelin net fastened in the propeller. Rescue units from ICE-SAR assisted on land.

The stamp design is based on an award-winning photo by news correspondent Jonas Erlendsson.

 

TS Stefan Batory- Polish Ocean Lines (SS Maasdam)

 

The TS Stefan Batory was a gas-powered steam turbine driven ocean liner built in Holland in 1952 under the name of SS Maasdam, initially used to service the Dutch East Indies by the Holland America Line. Tonnage: 15,024 BRT; Length: 153.4 m (503 ft); Width: 21.0 m (69 ft); Height: 21.0 m (69 ft).; Speed: 16.5 knots; Passengers: 39 1st class, 734 tourist class; Crew: 336. She was bought from Holland in 1968 and began service as a Polish ocean liner in April 1969, renamed after a king of Poland, Stefan Batory (1533-1586). After TS Stefan Batory was refitted she became the flagship of the Polish Ocean Lines, and she remained in service until 1988. She was the last regularly scheduled transatlantic liner. Here is an image of a stamp depicting the Stefan Batory, issued by Poland on January 30, 1971.