German auxiliary cruiser Atlantis

The Atlantis (Schiff 16 or Raider C), during World War II, was a German Hilfskreuzer (auxiliary cruiser), of 7,862 tons. Commissioned in mid-December of 1939, this was the first of 10 merchant ships armed by the Third Reich for the purposes of seeking out and engaging enemy cargo vessels.

History of the Atlantis

In 1939, the Atlantis was part of the Hansa Line and known as the Goldenfels.

Design of the Atlantis

This ship was 155m long and had a single funnel amidships. She had a crew of 21. The cruiser carried a dummy funnel, variable-height masts, and had various paint hues. The Atlantis was capable of being modified to 26 different silhouette.

Weapons and Aircraft

The ship carried two Heinkel He-114B seaplanes, two waterline torpedo tubes, and a 92-mine compartment. The ship was also equipped with 6 5.9-inch guns, one 75mm bow gun, and 2 twin-37mm and 4 20mm automatic cannons; all of which were hidden behind pivotable false deck structures.

Engines

The Atlantis had dual, 6-cylinder engines, which powered a single propellor. Her top speed was 17.5 knots.