Editors note - January 2022
A new book has been published that is very relevant to the purpose of this wiki, namely "All Ships, All Ships" - a history of the short-&- medium-range coast radio stations in Great Britain" written by Larry Bennett, an ex-Radio Officer. The network was originated by Marconi and Lloyds then operated by the British Post Office, running from the 1920s to 2000. We have received a courtesy copy having cooperated as a source of information, currently held by me but destined for the Chelmsford archive when we get one, so I can be contacted for queries, or copies can be obtained via Amazon worldwide https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1800311451 or signed copies from Larry via the GKA website at www.portisheadradio.co.uk
This wiki is one of a series recording the history of the Marconi Company from its formation starting from Family
Marconi's Wireless Telegraph Company's maritime rights were sold to the Marconi International Marine Communication Company Ltd. This was the second company to be set up, which became the main source of income. The design and production of equipment was still carried out by the Marconi Wireless Telegraph Company. A later enforced government separation of services changed the management structure.
As a separate entity it has it's own wiki here
Experiments had been carried out with the Italian Navy and in 1899 with the Royal Navy during that year's manoeuvres with equipment fitted in HMS Alexandra, HMS Europa and HMS Juno, which delivered proof of Marconi's belief that the curvature of the earth offered no obstacle to the reception of wireless signals. As a result in July 1900 the Marconi Wireless Telegraph Co. obtained its first contract of importance for fitting out twenty-eight naval ships and four land stations, which was extended in 1901 and again later.
The Marconi Company can unquestionably claim to hold unequalled experience in the design and manufacture of marine radio equipment. This experience is applicable to both shipborne units and equipment for coastal and harbour communications.
In lighthouses and lightships, harbour masters' offices, pilot cutters and tugs, the radio installations, which may include direction finders, radar, radio telephone and beacons, are plying a vital role in everyday operation. Naval and other ocean-going vessels are also fitted with communications equipment and navigational aids, and the extensive requirements in this field can be fully met.
The Marconi Company can claim to have unequalled experience in the design and manufacture of marine radio equipment. This experience is applicable to both shipborne units and equipment for coastal and harbour communications.
In lighthouses and lightships, harbour masters' offices, pilot cutters and tugs, the radio installations (which may include direction finders, radar, radio telephones and beacons) are playing a vital role in everyday operation. Naval and other ocean-going vessels are also fitted with communications equipment and navigational aids, and the extensive requirements in this field can be fully met, including SSB communication, the advantages of which are now available in the marine sphere.
Navigation radar and shipborne direction finding equipment is available to meet the needs of all vessels, great and small. The new NR506 series of radar equipment is a major achievement.
An introduction to Marconi shipborne Communications equipment is available here
These were used by Marconi for both demonstration of the Company's marine products and personal travel.
Elettra I - the famous steam yacht, purchased by Marconi in 1919/1920. Click here to find details from the 'Marconi Calling', website, also here
Elettra II - purchased by Marconi Company in 1950. A converted wartime motor torpedo boat, it became so top-heavy with aerials and radar equipment that when it rolled, there was a sickening delay before it righted itself. After a tour of Norway it was found that all but one of the stringers (the longitudinal beams that were supposed to hold the ship together) were broken and it was scrapped. In 1951 it concluded a tour of East coasts and continental ports here. In 1955 it visited Copenhagen here.
Elettra III - purpose-built for Marconi Company in 1962 - later details here - short video here. A vessel fact sheet is available here.
A brief description of the three Elettra models can be found on the 'Berwick Shipyard' website here. Other details here
To view a list of articles relating to Marine click here
In addition to the above here is an article on the History of Maritime Distress Calls.
Wireless Telegraphy for Marine Intercommunication by WW Bradfield of Marconi in 1910 click here
Personal memories from Michael Kirwan - 1. 2. 3.
To view a list of press clippings and advertisements relating to Marine click here.