Does anyone have any details regarding how these ships differed from normal transport ships. I understand that a large number of ships were converted to MT Ships during the war, but am interested in understanding how the designs and unloading operations differed.
If you enter 'Naval Force L' in the search box it should show you a post which should explain all. If not ask me again. Short answer is that MT ships were all standard Liberty ships, or their close relatives the Forts and Parks. These were adapted by simply adding additional decks in the holds to carry the maximum number of vehicles. They were unloaded simply by using the ships derricks and slings under the wheels or sling hubs (if fitted). They were loaded into LCTs, LBVs or onto Rhino Ferries for transport to shore. MT coasters were similarly adapted but were not standardised. Mike
Not all MT ships were standard ships, there were many other British cargo ships involved - see Derrycunihy for example. Many were not altered in any way, but those who carried troops had bunks fitted in the tween decks - where the soldiers slept with their vehicles. The first wave were all loaded with the same combination of cargo as arranged by the Ministry of War Transport. They had a term for this but I can even find it in my own book - BALANCED LOADING!! I have posted a full list of the ships elsewhere on this site, but could send it again if you can find it. Roy
The MT ships were discharged, mainly using their own gear, onto Rhino barges and the like. After a few days many of the coasters were beached and discharged on to DUKWs - the attached shows US built, British flagged, 'Jeep' coasters. Roy
Thanks for your reply Mike, I'm interested in the Port requirements for MT ships. Do you have any idea why ISIS reports would suggest that some berths (alongside) would be suitable for "Personnel ships or MT ships", but not reference store ships? Is this to do with draft?
