The luxurious ocean liner The Berengaria plays a key role in my short story Bright Light. This grand vessel was a popular choice for transatlantic crossings between England and America in the early 20th century, renowned for its opulence and exceptional service.
In October 1921, The Berengaria set sail from Southampton to New York, stopping in Cherbourg along the way. While my character Daisy Briscoe is fictional, one notable passenger on that voyage was none other than Charlie Chaplin—the legendary actor and filmmaker. By this time, Chaplin had reached unprecedented fame, and his presence aboard the ship added an air of celebrity glamour. He was returning from what he later wrote about as My Trip Abroad, his first journey back to Europe since becoming a silent film icon. As expected, he attracted attention and admiration from fellow passengers and crew alike.
Here's what Chaplin wrote about arriving in New York:
“We land at seven in the morning of a very windy day, and it is eleven before we can get away. Reporters and camera men fill the air all that time, and I am rather glad because it shows… a glimpse of what America is like.”
A Ship of Elegance and Social Diversity
The Berengaria was more than just a means of travel—it was a floating palace, offering accommodations to suit a range of passengers, from the wealthy elite to budget-conscious immigrants seeking a fresh start. The ship’s four distinct cabin classes reflected the social diversity of its passengers:
First Class: The Height of Luxury
First-class cabins embodied elegance, designed with spacious layouts and furnished with the finest materials. These accommodations included private bathrooms with modern amenities—an uncommon luxury at sea. First-class passengers dined in exclusive restaurants serving gourmet meals, enjoyed live music and theatrical performances, and received personalized service from a dedicated crew. The experience was nothing short of indulgent, offering travelers the finest comforts available on the ocean.
Second Class: A Balance of Comfort and Affordability
Second-class cabins provided stylish yet practical accommodations. While passengers shared bathrooms and common areas, the furnishings were of good quality, ensuring a pleasant journey. Dining options, though more casual than first class, still offered well-prepared meals. This class was ideal for travelers seeking comfort without the extravagance of first class.
Third Class: Simplicity and Community
Third-class cabins offered basic yet functional accommodations. Privacy was limited due to shared quarters, but communal dining and social areas fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among passengers. This class attracted students, young adventurers, and budget-conscious travelers looking for an economical yet enjoyable way to cross the Atlantic.
Steerage (Fourth Class): A Passage to a New Life
Steerage accommodations were the most basic, featuring cramped shared sleeping quarters with minimal amenities. Facilities were rudimentary, and access to shipboard services was limited. Many steerage passengers were immigrants embarking on a new chapter in their lives, making this class a melting pot of diverse cultures and backgrounds.
A Reflection of Society at Sea
Beyond its grandeur, The Berengaria was a microcosm of early 20th-century society. Aboard one ship, the wealthy enjoyed lavish comforts while others traveled in more modest conditions, each class reflecting the broader social structure of the time. Yet, despite these differences, all passengers shared the same journey—crossing the Atlantic in pursuit of opportunity, adventure, or simply the thrill of ocean travel.
From celebrity passengers like Charlie Chaplin to hopeful immigrants like my fictional character Daisy Briscoe seeking a better future, The Berengaria carried a fascinating mix of people, making it not just a vessel of transport but a symbol of an era defined by ambition, luxury, and change.