The MS Achille Lauro, an Italian cruise ship, had a complex and storied history marked by transformation and tragedy:
Original Build
Originally named Willem Ruys, the ship was constructed in the Netherlands between 1939 and 1947 for Royal Rotterdam Lloyd, designed for service to the Dutch East Indies.
Purchase and Renaming
In 1965, the vessel was acquired by the Italian Flotta Lauro Line and renamed Achille Lauro after the company’s owner. It was transformed into a cruise ship, featuring modernized interiors, redesigned funnels, an elegant bow, and a distinctive blue hull.
End of Service
On November 30, 1994, the Achille Lauro caught fire off the coast of Somalia with 979 passengers and crew aboard. After evacuation, the ship sank on December 2, 1994, marking the end of its service.
Creation Process
This precisely drawn illustration is based on thorough research, utilizing:
- Original photographs
- Drawings
- General arrangement plans
- Design specifications
These resources ensure an accurate depiction of the MS Achille Lauro, providing a solid foundation for the artwork.
Print Specifications
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Material: Archival pigment print on high-quality 260gsm, acid- and lignin-free paper with a beautiful luster surface, designed to last for decades
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Image Size: 100 x 37 cm
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Border: Extra 3 cm white surround for mounting and framing
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Total Size: 106 x 43 cm
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Frame: Not included
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Packaging: Shipped in a sturdy cardboard tube placed in a box
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Note: International orders may incur extra taxes
Framing Tips
- For prints of this size (1 meter long), local framing is recommended.
- Shipping framed prints is costly and risky due to size and weight.
- Local art shops offer a variety of frame colors, glass options, and matting (passe-partouts) to complement your décor.
