SS Appam

The SS Appam was a steamship operated by Elder Dempster Shipping Limited for commercial transport between African and British ports. The vessel measured approximately 135 meters in length and was built to carry cargo and passengers on regular trading routes.

In January 1916, the vessel was captured by the German raider SMS Möwe during World War I while sailing from Dakar to Plymouth with more than 300 people aboard. Following a legal decision that confirmed British ownership, the ship later received a new name and returned to service.

The vessel became central to a Supreme Court case that established precedents regarding the rights of belligerent nations to store captured vessels in neutral ports.

The vessel is located in Belfast where it can be viewed today as part of the maritime heritage of the city. Visitors should check access conditions and opening times in advance to plan their visit properly.

The vessel was at the center of a significant court case that clarified important legal rights regarding how warring nations could store captured ships in neutral ports. This ruling had lasting effects on maritime law and international disputes during the post-war period.

Length: 135 m

GPS coordinates: 53.43333,-4.30000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:04