SANDOWN CASTLE was built in 1921 by Short Bros. in Sunderland with a tonnage of 7607grt, a length of 445ft, a beam of 56ft 4in and a service speed of 12.5 knots.

She was built as a cargo only ship and operated between the USA and South Africa occasionally triangulating with the UK.

1930 Converted to oil fuel

When, in 1922, the absorption of war built standard ships into commercial service created a surplus she was laid up for several months.

In 1924 she carried 330 head of live cattle from South Africa to Birkenhead the intention being to create a market to rival that of the River Plate. However, the post-slaughter price was too high and the venture was discontinued in the same year.

During 1946 she was given a lavender hull but after a short time reverted to black with a white band.

She was scrapped in 1950 at Gateshead.