The SS Ava was a British steamship built in 1855 by Tod & McGregor in Glasgow, with a gross register tonnage of 1,613 GRT. She was described as an iron screw barque featuring a single funnel, representing the maritime engineering of her time. Operated by the Peninsular & Oriental Steam Navigation Company, she served on the China mail route, connecting Britain with Asia. Delivered on 21 July 1855, the Ava embarked on her maiden voyage to Alexandria on 29 August. During this initial journey, she experienced mechanical issues, specifically breaking a screw blade, which necessitated her being towed to Malta by the paddle packet HMS Medusa. Despite this setback, she continued her service, including a collision in September 1856 with the brig Blanche, resulting in the loss of a quarter boat. Her route included calls at Tristan da Cunha and Galle en route to Calcutta, where she arrived in December 1856. She also carried notable passengers, such as Lord Elgin during his mission to China in September 1857. In February 1858, the SS Ava was engaged in transporting refugees from the Indian rebellion, including Lady Julia Inglis and her family. Her cargo also included a substantial amount of gold—500 boxes valued at £275,000—and a government treasure shipment of about £5,000. On 13 February 1858, after calling at Madras, she set out for Suez. During her voyage, she struck a large rock near Trincomalee, about 12 miles from Trincomalee on Pigeon Island, resulting in her wreck. Passengers and crew were rescued after spending a night in open boats, with all lives saved despite the loss of most possessions. The wreck was extensively documented by survivors, including Lady Inglis and Dr. James Little, the ship's surgeon. An inquiry attributed the disaster to Captain Kirton’s failure to take proper precautions, leading to his suspension of certificate for six months. The SS Ava’s service record highlights her role in mid-19th-century maritime trade and correspondence, as well as her tragic end off the coast of Ceylon, emphasizing the perilous nature of sea voyages during that era.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.