HMHS Plassy

HMHS Plassy was a steamship originally built for the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company, which spent most of its career in government service, particularly as a troop transport for the Second Boer War and as a hospital ship in World War I, including service at the Battle of Jutland.

Building

The ship was built by Caird & Company as a twin-screw steamer, capable of mail and passenger service, but also to comply with government regulations for troop ships. The specifications included a top speed of, and accommodation for 114 first class and 57 second class passengers.

Career

In 1911, the ship was fitted with wireless telegraphy.
At the Battle of Jutland, Plassy served as a hospital ship, and took on board 192 wounded from the battlecruisers and, including a number with severe burns.
In June 1917, King George V visited the ship at Scapa Flow.