The SS Great Britain was a revolution in shipbuilding. It was launched in Bristol in 1843 and was a combination of sailing ship and propeller-driven steamship. As such, this iron-hulled clipper-style ship was the world's first ever ocean-going passenger ship and signalled the transition in shipbuilding from sail to steam. At a huge 3,200 tons, 320 feet in length and fitted with 5 or 6 masts the SS Great Britain made 32 voyages to Melbourne, Australia between 1852 and 1875 carrying in all some 15,000 passengers and 5,000 crew. Average travel time to Australia was around 60 days. The Great Britain is painted here by artist Philip J. Gray and is seen about to enter Port Philip Bay in 1852 during her first voyage to Melbourne, Australia. A pilot is on board and the pilot boat is leading the way. Great Britain is getting up steam and shortening sail about to change course to port.
