Union-Australasian Line to New Zealand and Australia

Presented here is an extraordinary original vintage poster, crafted to promote the Union-Australasian Line's voyages to Oceania, featuring the elegant RMS Tahiti.

The RMS Tahiti, originally known as the RMS Port Kingston when built in 1904 for the Imperial Direct West India Mail Co., underwent a transformation in 1911 when it was acquired by the Union Steamship Company of New Zealand. Following a comprehensive refitting in Bristol, the vessel was rechristened as the Tahiti. Her new role was to ply the route from Sydney to San Francisco, making stops at Wellington, Rarotonga, and Tahiti along the way. Her maiden voyage on this route commenced on December 11, 1911.

The text on this poster elegantly invites travelers to embark on a journey with the Union-Australasian Line to the captivating destinations of New Zealand and Australia. The route encompasses a voyage from San Francisco, with enchanting stopovers in Tahiti (Society Islands) and Rarotonga (Cook Islands) aboard the RMS Tahiti. Departures from San Francisco occur every 28 days, with well-equipped oil-burning steamers ensuring a comfortable and efficient voyage. Passengers originating in Great Britain have the convenience of booking through any Atlantic line and can choose from various rail routes in the USA.

The artistic prowess behind this poster is attributed to Charles Edward Dixon, a British maritime painter renowned for his contributions during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. His work achieved significant acclaim and was regularly showcased at the esteemed Royal Academy.

Although time has taken its toll, with edge wear and minor tears, this poster has undergone a meticulous restoration process. It now stands proudly, professionally mounted on linen, a testament to its enduring allure and the timeless elegance of ocean travel in the early twentieth century.