RMS Gallia was built in 1878 for the Cunard Line, entering service in 1879.

In service until 1899, the vessel ran aground off the coast of Quebec, Canada and was not repaired.

She departed Liverpool on her maiden voyage on 5 April 1879, en route to Queenstown then New York.

[1] In 1885, Gallia's shaft had broken and an attempt by SS Geiser of the Thingvalla Line to tow her was made, and failed.

[2] In 1896, Gallia was chartered by the Cia Trasatlántica and renamed Don Alvaro de Bazan.