Italian protected cruiser Etna visited the Dutch East Indies in 1899

The Jaarboek van de Koninklijke Nederlandsche Zeemacht 1898-1899 reported that the Italian cruiser 2nd class Etna (1) visited Batavia, Dutch East Indies between 8-15 May 1899. The Dutch newspaper Bataviaasch nieuwsblad dated 9 May reported her arrival coming from Albany. The locomotief dated 15 May reported that the etat major accepted with pleasure the invitation for the ball. She was to depart within 3-4 days after coal bunkering towards Hong Kong and later to Shanghai to strengthen the squadron of admiral Grenet.(2) The Bataviaasch nieuwsblad dated 16 May reported her departure towards Hong Kong. Commanding officer was Giovani Cav. Giorello

Notes

1. Of the Etna-class protected cruisers, preceded by Giovanni Bausan, succeeded by Dogali. Laid down by Regio Cantiere di Castellammare di Stabia on 19 January 1883, launched on 26 September 1885, commissioned on 3 December 1887, rebuilt between 1905-1907 and sold to be broken up on 15 May 1921.

2. Francesco Enrico Grenet (23 June 1846 Naples, Italy-22 May 1915 Naples, Italy), vice admiral since 1915, in 1899 rear admiral.