The story of Thomson & Company’s first trading expedition to China and Japan.

 

Our History: The Incredible Voyage of Araby Maid I to Far East

 

 

As we celebrate Ben Line’s 200th anniversary, we proudly reflect on our long and storied history in the Far East.

 

In September 1859, Ben Line vessel the Araby Maid I set sail from Alloa, Scotland, bound for another trading voyage in the Indian Ocean. After delivering British coal to Singapore, she loaded cargo destined for Macao — and began a months-long odyssey, tramping between the newly opened ports in Japan and China. In 1854 the ports of Shimoda and Hakodate had just opened to foreign vessels, marking a pivotal moment in maritime history.

 

The Araby Maid I returned home to Alloa in September 1861, having braved the perilous passage around Cape Horn.

 

This extraordinary journey, led by Captain Archibald Pennie, marked the beginning of a bold new era — a direct line to the Ben Line we know today. The Ben Line Group of today owes much of its legacy to Captain Pennie’s vision, determination, and remarkable entrepreneurial spirit.