The P.& O. liner "Morea" was commissioned as a Hospital Ship on 8th October, 1915 with accommodation for 750 patients. She served in that role until 28th March 1916, after which she was modified to fill the role of Troop Transport. In April 1918 she was fitted with seven 6" Guns and commissioned as HMS Morea, an Armed Merchant Cruiser, serving as such until after the Armistice.