The passenger and freight steamer "COLUMBUS" (1923 –1939)

The "COLUMBUS", the new flagship of Norddeutscher Lloyd, made its maiden voyage on April 22, 1924. With a length of around 236 meters and a speed of 21.5 knots it was the longest and fastest ship in the German merchant fleet at the time. The "COLUMBUS" initially sailed between Bremerhaven and New York. However, following the decline in the number of emigrants, the "COLUMBUS" was also used as a cruise ship.

Norddeutscher Lloyd abolished the steerage class dormitories on the "COLUMBUS", replacing them with a 3rd class where emigrants were accommodated in small and simple, purpose-built cabins for 2–4 people with a wash basin and electric lighting.