The Calcutta and Burmah Steam Navigation Company (Limited) was formed in London, United Kingdom in 1856.
The company was set up to provide a steamship service between Calcutta, India and Moulmein, Burma and the intermediate ports of Akyab and Rangoon, on behalf of the Honourable East India Company, with any spare accommodation being offered to the public.
From October 1862, the C&BSN served Akyab, Bimlipatam, Calcutta, Chittagong, Coconada, Curlew Island, Kurrachee, Kyook Phyoo, Madras, Malacca, Mergui, Moulmen, Negapatam, Penang, Pondicherry, Poorie, Port Blair, Rangoon, Sandoway, Singapore, Tavoy and Vizagapatam.
[3][4] In November 1862 its name was changed to British India Steam Navigation Company (Limited) [BISNCo.].
This company acquired many trading interests during its life, including tea, jute and management of BI's coal mines in India.