Old Largs Photos and Postcards Quiz

Question 25 Answer

The Balgowan is recognised as the largest ship to dock at Largs pier.

On the night of 11th February 1931 the Balgowan lost her anchor chain and started drifting. The three men on board were helpless to steer a safe course, and the steamer drifted at the mercy of a gale.So after narrowly missing the North end of Cumbrae she came to rest alongside Largs pier at 1.30am with such amazing accuracy that would have been the envy of many a Clyde steamer skipper. The Balgowan had a gross tonnage of 6,599 tons, and was launched in 1917. By comparison The Waverley is 693 tons and the Hebridean Princess is a tiny 2,112 tons.

Read all about the Balgowan and the history of the Largs pier and its various visitors at our Largs history pier article.

Next Question