Small LSIs could embark troop numbers comparable to some medium ships, but they were slower, more cramped, and offered fewer facilities. The comparison between Prince Baldwin and Princess Beatrix shows why counting boats alone is misleading. Princess Beatrix carried two LCMs and six LCAs, whereas Prince Baldwin carried eight LCAs, so identical totals masked different capabilities. Most small and medium LSIs were converted ferries. Wartime experience found no design entirely satisfactory, yet Combined Operations retained every type because each remained useful.
Notable Point · 20:48-23:40
Small LSIs and the tradeoffs of converted ferries
Small and medium LSIs often began as ferries, producing useful but imperfect combinations of troop capacity, speed, space, and landing-craft fit.