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Advent of the Diesel Marine Engine, 1914  [news report]
Punta Arenas, Strait of Magellan

Even though a few wind-powered vessels could still be seen on the high seas at the start of the 20th century, it was clear that another generation of mechanically-powered ships had arrived.

On Monday afternoon the first Motor propelled ship to pass through the Straits of Magellan dropped anchor in the Bay. The Kronprincessen Margaret is the first of a fleet of ships that the Jonhsen [sic] Line are running from Sweden to Iquique. She is a steel twin Diesel Motor ship of 6500 tons. The two main engines are four cycle single acting Diesels, of 1000 horse-power each, constructed by Messrs Burmeister and Wain of Copenhagen. Besides these there are two smaller engines on the port and starboard side of 200 horse-power each, driving air compressor, generators for electric light and for circulating water. The exhausts of the engines are led up to atmosphere on the after mast. The oil fuel is carried in tanks in the double bottom and at the same time acts as ballast, and it is estimated that the 800 tons taken on in London will not only last the entire round voyage, but that there will be a surplus of about 150 tons. The present price of fuel oil is about 45/- per ton. The average speed of the vessel is 10½ knots & should coal have been used instead of oil it is estimated that she would consume about 40 tons per day. Some other advantages are spotless cleanliness in the engineers staff, absence of coal dust, and rapidity of taking fuel on board. The telegraph is arranged on the same principle of a steamship and all controlling levers for manoeuvring ship with the engines are handy for the engineer. Forward of the bridge are three large hatches for cargo and she has accommodation for a few passengers. A special feature of this ship is the patent derrick for lifeboats, it being possible for one man to lower the boat in 20 seconds. All the deck winches are electrically driven and the absence of noise is still another advantage.

Source:  "The Magellan Times", 8-VII-1914