Story
This passenger was built in 1969 by Martinolich Shipbuilding Corp. in Tacoma, WA.
Historical Notes
George Schneider (February 2026) writes: This experimental gas turbine craft was built to compete with the 1920's steamer CATALINA by making the crossing at 25 knots, less than half the time. Rumors said her engines were problematic, but regardless of that, she came out just as the tide turned on fuel prices and high speed vessels were no longer economical.
In 2007 sold to Brazilian buyers.
Owners & Masters
In 1970-77she was owned by Holiday Services Inc (Catalina Transportation Co) Los Angeles, CA USA.
In 1978-1980 she was owned by VIP Cruises Inc., Honolulu, HI USA.
In 1981 she was owned by Jmes Moorehead, Bar Harbor, ME USA.
In 1989 she was owned by Weled Irving, Honolulu, HI USA.
In 1992-1994 she was owned by The Royal Prince Inc., Honolulu HI USA.
In 1995-1996 she was owned by Ocean Cruise Partners, Seattle WA USA.
In 1997-2004 she was owned by Royal Princess Cruises Inc., Kaneohe HI USA.
In 2005-2007 she was owned by Koma Equipment Leasing Inc., Juneau AK USA.
In 2007 she was sold to Brazilian interests.
Name Significance
Avalon is the protected port on Santa Catalina Island, a resort island off the Coast of Southern California usually known simply as "Catalina."
Repower
By 1977 had been re-engined Diesel, 1500 HP Total
References
Merchant vessels of the United States (1970-1989) and digital files (1992-2006). cgmix.uscg.mil ↗ (Accessed June 2020) which included a contact stating her sale foreign. Maritime Reporter Magazine, 1Apr1970, pages 6-8 about her original design and construction
