The 3rd class, traditionally on the open deck, was on the Stockholm transformed into a complete system of of cabins, thereby setting a trend toward improved travel conditions for low-fare passengers of which the Swedish American Line has been a pace-setter ever since. The Stockholm sailed on its maiden voyage from Gothenburg on December 11, 1915, under Captain Axel E. Håkansson. It was a trying experience for the 137 passengers.

Off the coast of Scotland, English naval units intercepted the liner, and forced the Stockholm to dock in Kirkwall to be searched for contraband. The mail to the U.S. was embargoed by the British authorities, which immediately resulted in the Swedish Government's refusal to let British parcel post to Russia pass through Sweden. The British, however, had good reason for their behavior. Rumors had been publicized that the Stockholm carried German bullion to be disposed of in America.

The Stockholm continued on her voyage, and after being almost at a standstill for four days in a snowstorm off Sandy Hook, she arrived in New York on December 27th 1915. Thus ended the first voyage regularly linking the two countries.
From The American Sweedish Monthly, February 1956, article by Ellis Folke. (From the Curt Dawe collection)