This is the first of a series of alternate universe designs I'll do. They will all involve ocean liners being sold, or otherwise acquired by other companies. They will all be given a relatively large refit. This is just a fun exercise I've thought of and if anyone else wants to join in that would be great. Anyway here's my first one:
In this what if, SS
Cap Arcona, of the Hamburg Südamerikanische Linie, survives WWII and is transferred to the French South American line, the Compagnie de Navigation Sud-Atlantique (being unfit for North Atlantic service). The French rename her
Bordeaux. She is given a large modernization including a modernized bow portion of the superstructure, a clipper bow, and new funnels. Her top speed is increased to about 22-23 knots after some upgrades of the power plant. After some minor delays in the refit, she is ready for service in 1948 and serves in tandem with the SS
Pasteur. Together they are the most successful pair of liners ever on the South American run and earn high praise for their luxury, spaciousness, and speed.
Bordeaux operates out of her namesake city and serves as one of the most popular ships on the run to the River Plate until 1958, when she is diverted to full time cruising due to the rise of jet travel. She is sold for scrap in 1962 after failing to make a profit in the cruise industry.