Blue Funnel Line (originally registered as Ocean Steamship Co.) was started by two Holt Bros. Alfred and Philip. The idea was conceived in the home of their father and they named their ships after characters in Homer's Odyssey: Agamemnon, Ajax, Achilles etc.
There is far more to their story than a few lines. But to stay with the question. Greek gods and Icons was Blue Flue's theme for ships names. N.B. 'Dumbarton Youth' was Blue Funnel's first acquisition followed by Saladin. The ships colours has an interesting origin.
Apparently, Holt's first ship 'Dumbarton Youth' was in such a tatty state that the funnel' paint was blistered. A drum of blue paint was found in a locker and was used to spruce it up, and so was born a famous brand.
Lamport and Holt was originally named after Painters, Poets and Composers: Raphael, Bronte, Verdi etc.
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Elder Dempster was named after African towns and Explorers.
Hope this helps, I'm sure the two Brians will expand on this.
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