Timeline of Sydney Harbour ferries

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Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
See also: List of Sydney Harbour ferries
South Steyne (1938-1974), Collaroy
(1988-)

Sydney Harbour ferry services date back to the first years of Sydney's European settlement. Slow and sporadic boats ran along the Parramatta River from Sydney to Parramatta and served the agricultural settlements in between. By the mid-1830s, speculative ventures established regular services. From the late-nineteenth century the North Shore developed rapidly. A rail connection to Milsons Point took alighting ferry passengers up the North Shore line to Hornsby, New South Wales via North Sydney. Without a bridge connection, increasingly large fleets of steamers serviced the cross harbour routes and in the early twentieth century, Sydney Ferries Limited
was the largest ferry operator in the world.

However, arguably the most well-known is the

Manly ferry service, and its large ship-like ferries that negotiate the beam swells of the Sydney Heads. From the mid-nineteenth century, the Port Jackson and Manly Steamship Company and its forerunners ran commuter and weekend excursion services to the beach-side suburb
.

The 1932 opening of the

Second World War
slowed the ferries' decline, but by 1951 the NSW State Government was forced to take over the ailing Sydney Ferries Limited. The Manly service fared better, and the Port Jackson company's peak year was 1946, after which a slow decline saw it too taken over by the NSW State Government in the 1970s. Ferry operations were privatised in 2015 with vessels and facilities remaining in public ownership.

Sydney's first ferries were sail and/or oar powered and by the mid-19th century, paddle steamers were well established. Double-ended ferries became common as they did not require turning at terminating wharves in Sydney's busy but narrow bays, including the main hub at

RiverCats, JetCats, SuperCats and in 2017, the Emerald-class ferries
. Apart from the four Manly "Freshwater-class" ferries, the current Sydney Ferries fleet comprises all catamarans.

Early days
Ocean-going steamer, Sophia Jane, was used sporadically on the Parramatta River.
  • circa 1830 - Ex-convict,
    Dawes Point to Blues Point.[1]
  • 1830s - A sporadic ferry service is set up between
    Northern Beaches.[1] It is provided by a small sailing ketch operated by Barney Kearns. From Balmoral, passengers have to travel overland to Milson's Point where they are rowed across the harbour by a waterman. The service does not last long requiring a longer and difficult overland trip.[2]
  • 1831 - The ocean-going steamer Sophia Jane arrives in Sydney and used sporadically on the Parramatta River in between towing and coastal trade to Newcastle.
  • 1 June 1831 - The first Australian-built paddle steamer, Surprise, starts regular service to Parramatta. She has limited financial success and is sold to Hobart in 1832.[1][3]
  • 5 October 1832 - Experiment, a paddle-steamer powered by horses on a treadmill, makes her first run to Parramatta. She immediately lost money and was sold.
  • c1832 - The Bedlam Point manually operated punt (Abbotsford - Gladesville) becomes the first ferry crossing.
  • 1833 - the Australian Conveyance Company is formed and launches a new ferry, Australia on the Parramatta service. With limited competition, the service is a success with a dividend paid in 1836 of 38 per cent.
  • 9 April 1835 - Experiment is put back into service having been fitted with 12 hp steam engine. Under the new ownership of shipping entrepreneur, John Edye Manning, she carries passengers and cargo, as well as towing work for the next five years. Australia and Experiment thus provide the first regular ferry service in Sydney.
  • 1837 - Following the success of Australia, the Australian Conveyance Company commissions a new steamer Rapid which promised a ninety-minute trip

1840s and 1850s

  • circa 1841 - A cross harbour service run by punt, Princess, runs in daylight hours between Dawes and Blues Points. The service fails after fifteen months.[4]
  • 1844 - The Waterman's Company introduces a service to Balmain with the paddle steamer Waterman, however, her reliability is poor.
  • 1845 - Brothers Thomas and James Gerrard, use the small steamer, Fairy Queen, between Windmill Street and Blues Point, forming the first reliable cross-harbour service.[4]
  • 1847 - Henry Perdriau & Partners take over the Waterman and expand the service over the next three decades.
  • 9 October 1847 - A small timber paddle steamer, Brothers, begins a run from Windmill Street in The Rocks to Blues Point.
  • 1848 - John and Joseph Gerrard shift Brothers to a sporadic Manly service, and she becomes accepted as the first
    Manly ferry
    .
  • 1853 - Henry Gilbert Smith charters Brothers for the first scheduled service between Sydney and Manly as the tourist trade grows.[5][6]
  • 1854 - Paddle steamer Victoria begins excursion trips to Watsons Bay.
  • 1855 - Iron paddle steamer, Herald, is imported from England in sections and assembled in Sydney for the newly formed North Shore Steam Company. She is used on a fledgling North Shore route between Dawes Point and Blues Point and also as a tug to make her financially viable.
  • 1855 - The Sydney-Parramatta railway opens, however, due to its alignment considerably south of the harbour, ferry services are still important for services along the Parramatta River.
  • 1856 - Paddle steamer, Victoria, begins daily services to Manly. Running until 1860, she is the first regular Manly ferry.
  • 1859 - Phantom, the first large double-ended ferry on the Manly run, is put into service by a new business partnership between Henry Gilbert Smith and SB Skinner established to operate the ferries.
  • Paddle steamer, Emu
    Paddle steamer, Emu
  • Herald was used on a fledgling service to the North Shore
    Herald was used on a fledgling service to the North Shore
  • Painting of Brothers which provided the first scheduled Manly ferry service.
    Painting of Brothers which provided the first scheduled Manly ferry service.
  • Manly Wharf, 1870s, with Phantom.
    Manly Wharf, 1870s, with Phantom
    .

1860s & 1870s

  • 1860s - The cross-harbour punt at Bedlam Point is joined by manually operated punts at Gladesville (Five Dock Point - Huntleys Point) and Iron Cove (Rozelle - Drummoyne).
  • 1860 - Mosman landowner Richard Hayes Harnett commences excursion services to promote his land sales hiring steamers Black Swan, Perri, Brothers and Herald. The service is abandoned due to slow sales.
  • 1861 - City to North Shore services have grown considerably and the North Shore Ferry Company is formed. The company's first ferry is Kirribilli (I). Alexander, Nell, Galatea and Coombra follow. The unincorporated company is the forerunner of what will become Sydney Ferries Limited in 1900. Its backers include James Milson and Francis Lord.
  • 1864 - A regular ferry service is commenced to the
    Neutral Bay
    area, however, it is soon discontinued.
  • 1865 - The Parramatta River Steam Company is formed by
    Charles Edward Jeanneret
    initially in partnership with Jules Joubert. It is incorporated the following year. Its first services are by Ysobel and its main vessel will be Adelaide (later renamed Swan).
  • 1867/68 - Ownership of the Manly services passes to TJ Parker and later Thomas Hesleton who expanded both passenger and cargo services acquiring the first permanent saloon steamer, Royal Alfred, in 1873.
  • 1870s - Land subdivision sees development east of Milsons Point in the Neutral Bay and Mosman areas. Mosman is originally an excursion area and residential development suffers until regular ferry services began in the 1870s.
  • 1871 - Harnett recommences ferry services to Mosman using Herald.
  • 1871 - The Joubert family commences ferry services to Hunters Hill and a service along the Lane Cove River to Figtree.
  • 1873 (circa) - Herald is working to Mosman Bay and Neutral Bay in a somewhat irregular weekday timetable.
  • 1873 - The North Shore Ferry Company is reformed as the North Shore Steam Ferry Company
  • 1873 - Jeanneret establishes his own ferry operation which becomes the monopoly Parramatta River services by 1875.
  • 1875 - Ownership of the Manly service passes to JR Carey who, with other partners the following year, injects new capital into the service.
  • 1876 - William Harmer begins a ferry service to Watsons Bay.
  • 1876 - Harnett buys back the Mosman estate and he successfully subdivides the land. He commences a more successful service for the new residents using Golden Rose, Zeus, Speedwell and Matilda. The service is taken over by Shipley, Chapman and Company in 1878 and by Charles Jeanneret in 1881.
  • 1877 - The Port Jackson Steam Boat Company is incorporated and commences services to Manly from Circular Quay via
    Woolloomooloo
    .
  • 1878 - The North Shore Steam Ferry Company becomes the limited liability North Shore Steam Ferry Company.
  • 1878 - Fairlight, the first purpose-built Manly ferry, enters service for the Port Jackson Steam Boat Company. The first of five subsequent Manly ferries built in Scotland, the paddle-steamer is rated at 950 passengers and works on the Harbour until 1914.
  • 1879 - The North Shore Company introduces Sydney's first, and the world's second, double-ended screw ferry, Wallaby. This remains the basic design of all Sydney double-ended screw ferries, however, the company continues acquiring paddle steamers until 1885. Double-ended screw ferries become the norm for the fleet from 1891 with the introduction of Kangaroo.
  • The 1865 paddle-steamer Adelaide (later Swan), the Parramatta River Steam Company's main ferry
    The 1865 paddle-steamer Adelaide (later Swan), the Parramatta River Steam Company's main ferry
  • Leipoa (1872), wooden paddle steamer for H. Perdriau's Balmain Steam Ferry Co Ltd.
    Leipoa (1872), wooden paddle steamer for H. Perdriau's Balmain Steam Ferry Co Ltd.
  • Fairlight (1878-1914), built in Scotland, was the first purpose-designed Manly ferry.
    Fairlight (1878-1914), built in Scotland, was the first purpose-designed Manly ferry.
  • Wallaby, Sydney's first, and the world's second, double-ended screw ferry
    Wallaby, Sydney's first, and the world's second, double-ended screw ferry

1880s

  • River ferry Aleathea (1881) - built as Sydney's second double-ended screw ferry, and the first with electric lighting.
    River ferry Aleathea (1881) - built as Sydney's second double-ended screw ferry, and the first with electric lighting.
  • Opulent Manly ferry Brighton (1883-1916) was the largest paddle steamer ferry on Sydney Harbour
    Opulent Manly ferry Brighton (1883-1916) was the largest paddle steamer ferry on Sydney Harbour
  • Paddle steamer Waratah in Lavender Bay circa 1886
    Paddle steamer Waratah in
    Lavender
    Bay circa 1886
  • Victoria (built 1883) is typical of Sydney's double-ended inner harbour paddle steamer ferries of the late 19th century.
    Victoria (built 1883) is typical of Sydney's double-ended inner harbour paddle steamer ferries of the late 19th century.

1890s

Circular Quay, 1890s
  • 1892 - The Balmain New Ferry Company Limited is set up in competition to the Balmain Steam Ferry Company. The new competition and the 1890s recession see the new company take over the old in 1900. The company delivers The Lady Mary, the first of its Walter Reeks-designed double-ended "Lady-class" ferries. She is followed by The Lady Napier (1892), Lady Manning (1894), and Lady Hampden (1896). A further nine are built for the company between 1903 and 1914.
  • 1893 - A limited liability company, the Parramatta River Steamers and Tramway Company Limited is formed. The company is taken over by Sydney Ferries Limited in 1901.
  • 1893 - The Manly Co-operative Steam Ferry Company is formed in opposition to the Port Jackson Steam Boat Company. Supported by Manly Municipal Council and many residents, the new-comer pushes down fares making Manly excursions affordable to a broader class of people.
  • 1893 - A train terminus is opened at Milsons Point connecting the North Shore railway line from Hornsby to the harbour, and along with the 1886 tram connection, serves a large catchment of commuters from across the North Shore for ferries across the harbour.
  • 1896 - The Port Jackson Steamship Company adsorbs struggling rival Manly Co-operative Steam Ferry Company and is reincorporated as the Port Jackson Co-operative Steamship Company.
  • 1896 - Manly (II) starts on the Manly run. Ordered by the Manly Co-operative Steam Ferry Company and designed by renowned naval architect, Walter Reeks, she is the first double-ended screw ferry on the Manly run and remains one of the fastest ferries to have worked on the run.
  • 1899 - Thomas Henley takes acquires three vessels from the struggling Balmain Steam Ferry Company and commences services to Drummoyne and Haberfield. In 1900, the Balmain Steam Ferry Company is taken over by the Balmain New Ferry Company.
  • 14 December 1899 - the North Shore Ferry Company is incorporated as Sydney Ferries Limited.
  • Launch of The Lady Mary at Berrys Bay, North Sydney, 1892, the first of a long series of "Lady-class" ferries
    Launch of The Lady Mary at Berrys Bay, North Sydney, 1892, the first of a long series of "Lady-class" ferries
  • Bronzewing the largest of Sydney's single-ended ferries, and the last traditional 'river type' boat built for the Parramatta service.
    Bronzewing the largest of Sydney's single-ended ferries, and the last traditional 'river type' boat built for the Parramatta service.
  • Paddle steamer Millie at Mosman Bay
    Paddle steamer Millie at Mosman Bay
  • The fast Manly (II), designed by Walter Reeks, she is the first double-ended screw ferry on the Manly run.
    The fast Manly (II), designed by Walter Reeks, she is the first double-ended screw ferry on the Manly run.

1900s

Circular Quay, 1900s
  • 1900 - The Balmain New Ferry Company (formed 1892) takes over the Balmain Steam Ferry Company (formed 1882). The Balmain New Ferry Company, with naval architect Walter Reeks develops double-ended screw ferries with single screws pushing the vessel in one direction and pulling it in the other. This single "push-pull" configuration is seen in the timber "Lady-class" vessels.
  • 1 January 1901 - The North Shore Steam Ferry Company is renamed Sydney Ferries Limited. It goes on to adsorb most of Sydney's ferry services, acquiring the Parramatta River Company in 1901, the New Balmain Ferry Company in 1917, and the Watsons Bay Ferry Company in 1920. Between 1900 and 1922, Sydney Ferries Limited will also acquire 25 large ferryboats, predominantly the "K-class" ferries. Such is the growth in demand for cross-harbour ferries prior to the opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Ferries Limited becomes the world's largest ferry operator by fleet size and patronage.
  • 1901 - Sydney Ferries Limited takes over the Parramatta River service with its acquisition of the Parramatta River Steamers and Tramway Co. Ltd.
  • 1901 - Increasing demand on the vehicular ferry service from Milsons Point to Bennelong Point sees the Blues Point to Dawes Point vehicular service re-established.
  • 1901 - The Walter Reeks designed Kuring-gai enters service on the Manly run. A steel, double-ended screw steamer, in appearance, size and capacity she will become the archetype of the familiar Manly ferries of the twentieth century.
  • 1903 - The City terminus for Parramatta and Lane Cove River ferries is moved from Darling Harbour to number 6/7 jetty at Circular Quay. Jetties 4 and 5 are rebuilt for all North Shore services.
  • 1905 - Sydney Ferries Limited begins services to
    Balmoral, and The Spit
    .
  • early 1906 - The Balmain New Ferry Company takes over the Joubert-run Lane Cove ferries. Sydney Ferries Limited takes over the service in 1917.
  • 1906 -
    Burra Bra (1908), Bellubera (1910), Balgowlah (1912), Barrenjoey (1913), and Baragoola (1922).[8]
    Bellubera, Baragoola, and Barrenjoey (renamed North Head in 1951) will serve until 1973, 1983, and 1985 respectively.
  • 1906 - Sydney Ferries Limited purchases the Thompson estate at Clifton Gardens (in Mosman) including land, the three-storey hotel, wharf dancing pavilion and skating rink. The company builds a large circular swimming enclosure that holds 3,000 spectators, a boatshed and a tramway from the wharf to the hotel. The structure burns down in 1956.[9]
  • 1907 - The Port Jackson Co-operative Steamship Company is re-incorporated as the Port Jackson and Manly Steamship Company Limited.
  • 1907 - Sydney Ferries Limited introduces the K-class ferry, Kookooburra. It represents the company's first attempt at a designing a Parramatta River ferry after taking over that service in 1901. The company follows up Kookooburra with a smaller but otherwise similar ferry, Kuranda (soon renamed Kaludah) in 1909. In 1911, Kaludah will burn out and sink in Tarban Creek becoming possibly the shortest-lived of all Sydney Harbour ferries.
  • 1908 - The Upper Lane Cove River Ferry Co starts services on the Upper Lane Cove River between Figtree and
    West Killara
    .
  • 1909 - With increasing commuter pressure on the Milsons Point terminus, a supplementary tram line is built to McMahons Point from which ferry services to the City also operate.

1910s

A busy early twentieth century pre-Bridge Circular Quay
  • 1910 - Sydney Ferries Limited introduces Kirrule, one of the largest of their K-class ferries. She is followed by the near identical Kiandra in 1911 and Kubu in 1912 forming a sub-class known as the "Kirrule-type" ferry. Built for the busy Mosman run, they can carry 1,000 passengers each. The three survive the 1932 opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and are decommissioned in the 1950s.
  • 1910 - The Balmain New Ferry Company introduces Lady Chelmsford, which is the first of new series of "Lady-class" double-ended screw ferries. She is followed by the similar Lady Denman (1912), Lady Edeline (1913), Lady Scott (1914), and Lady Ferguson (1914). The five serve in various ferry routes until the late 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.
  • December 1911 - Sydney Ferries Limited adds a service to meet the tram at the new Cremorne Point wharf.[10]
  • Summer 1912/13 - The Watsons Bay Company charters the steamer, JW Alexander, to run a service between Watsons Bay and Manly. The company orders a new ferry, Woollahra, which is specially designed for the service with high bulwarks and wheelhouses. However, upon her delivery in 1913, the new Watsons Bay to Manly service has proved unprofitable and is discontinued. Woollahra is instead used on the existing Circular Quay to Watsons Bay run.
  • 24 September 1916 - Sydney Ferries Limited vehicular ferry, Kedumba, transports the elephant 'Jessi' across the harbour from the old Moore Park Zoo to the newly opened Taronga Zoo.[11] Sydney Ferries Limited commences regular services to the Zoo thereafter.
  • 1917 - Sydney Ferries Limited takes over the Balmain New Ferry Company and most of its fleet including the "Lady-class" ferries.
  • 1918 - Sydney Ferries forms two subsidiaries to manage its cargo, lighterage and property businesses, which later merge to form Harbour Land and Transport Company Ltd.
  • Kirawa leaving Mosman Bay wharf, 1915. Booming Mosman and neighbouring Cremorne had become one of the most fashionable Sydney suburbs, and after Manly and Milsons Point, the busiest ferry route.
    Mosman Bay wharf
    , 1915. Booming Mosman and neighbouring Cremorne had become one of the most fashionable Sydney suburbs, and after Manly and Milsons Point, the busiest ferry route.
  • Kiandra, other K-class ferries and Barrenjoey at Circular Quay
    Kiandra, other K-class ferries and Barrenjoey at Circular Quay
  • The 1914-built Lady Ferguson - one of five similar ferries - on the Lane Cove River
    The 1914-built Lady Ferguson - one of five similar ferries - on the Lane Cove River
  • Woollahra (1913), with her high bows and wheelhouses, was built for a new Manly-Vaucluse service which was cancelled before she was commissioned.
    Woollahra (1913), with her high bows and wheelhouses, was built for a new Manly-Vaucluse service which was cancelled before she was commissioned.

1920s

K-class ferries inner harbour ferries and two "Binngarra-class
" Manly ferries. Harbour Bridge construction is well-underway in the background.
  • Vehicular ferry, Koondooloo, at Jeffrey Street Wharf, Kirribilli circa 1925. All vehicular ferries ceased service with weeks of the 1932 Sydney Harbour Bridge opening.
    Vehicular ferry, Koondooloo, at Jeffrey Street Wharf,
    Kirribilli
    circa 1925. All vehicular ferries ceased service with weeks of the 1932 Sydney Harbour Bridge opening.
  • Sydney Ferries Limited base at Milsons Point with early Sydney Harbour Bridge construction underway at opposite Dawes Point
    Sydney Ferries Limited base at Milsons Point with early Sydney Harbour Bridge construction underway at opposite
    Dawes Point
  • Built to meet the pre-Sydney Harbour Bridge demand across the harbour, Kuttabul and her sister Koompartoo could carry over 2,000 passengers, more than any Sydney ferry before or since.
    Built to meet the pre-Sydney Harbour Bridge demand across the harbour, Kuttabul and her sister Koompartoo could carry over 2,000 passengers, more than any Sydney ferry before or since.
  • Curl Curl leaves Circular Quay on her first official trip to Manly, 1928
    Curl Curl leaves Circular Quay on her first official trip to Manly, 1928

1930s

Kirribilli, with the Sydney Harbour Bridge
under construction behind, 1930.
  • Manly steamer Barrenjoey (later converted to diesel and renamed North Head) crosses the Sydney Heads after her 1930s enclosing of her upper deck and wheelhouse extensions.
    Manly steamer Barrenjoey (later converted to diesel and renamed North Head) crosses the Sydney Heads after her 1930s enclosing of her upper deck and wheelhouse extensions.
  • South Steyne arriving in Sydney from Scotland, 9 September 1938, arguably Sydney's most famous ferry.
    South Steyne
    arriving in Sydney from Scotland, 9 September 1938, arguably Sydney's most famous ferry.
  • The top-heavily loaded Rodney capsizes and sinks in 1938 with the loss of nineteen lives.
    The top-heavily loaded Rodney capsizes and sinks in 1938 with the loss of nineteen lives.
  • Max Dupain photo of passengers alighting from Kubu at Circular Quay, 1938
    Max Dupain photo of passengers alighting from Kubu at Circular Quay, 1938

1940s

1950s

Old ferries laid up at McMahon's Point during the 1950s slump in ferry travel
  • A brand new Kooleen, 1956
    A brand new
    Kooleen
    , 1956
  • The former steam ferry Barrenjoey (built 1913), leaves Manly Wharf in 1954 following her re-build and 1951 re-commissioning as the diesel-electric MV North Head.
    The former steam ferry Barrenjoey (built 1913), leaves Manly Wharf in 1954 following her re-build and 1951 re-commissioning as the diesel-electric MV North Head.
  • Kosciusko and Kubu, the last coal-fired steamer in Sydney, at Circular Quay, 1956
    Kubu, the last coal-fired steamer in Sydney, at Circular Quay
    , 1956
  • Kubu, the last coal-fired steamer on the harbour, reportedly on her last day of service, 1959
    Kubu, the last coal-fired steamer on the harbour, reportedly on her last day of service, 1959

1960s

  • 1960s - With significant harbourside home unit development, the Neutral Bay, Cremorne and Mosman services experience a jump in ferry patronage, the first significant rise in passenger numbers since the 1932 opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
  • 1961 - Manly steamer, Curl Curl, is retired after the older Baragoola (1922) returns to service after conversion to diesel power. Curl Curl is scuttled at sea in 1969.
  • 1964 - New directorship at the Port Jackson and Manly Steamship Company sees the company investing in offshore oil-rig supply service, the profits of which will be used to invest in a Manly hydrofoil service.
  • 7 January 1965 -
    Port Jackson & Manly Steamship Company. It takes 15 minutes to cover the 10-kilometre (6 mi) journey from Circular Quay to Manly compared to 35 minutes for conventional ferries.[20][21][22][23]
    Five more hydrofoils will be purchased in the 1960s and 1970s. While they can charge a premium fare for the fast trip, they fail to increase overall patronage, and they take passengers from the older ferries.
  • 1966 - The Sydney Harbour Transport Board takes over the remaining Balmain East ferry service from the Nicholson Company and "Lady-class" ferries return to the Balmain service on their way to Hunters Hill.
  • 1966 - Karingal and Karrabee are used on a short-lived attempt to run a recreational weekend service to Nielsen Park in Vaucluse.
  • November 1966 - A 140-seat Italian-built Rodriguez PT50 hydrofoil enters service. Named Fairlight, it will be joined by Dee Why in 1970, Curl Curl in 1973, Palm Beach in 1975 and Long Reef in 1978.[20][21][22][23]
  • 11 July 1968 - Manly steamer, Dee Why, makes her final trip under the command of Captain K Ross. She is sold to Strides shipbreakers in 1969 and gradually stripped. Her hull is scuttled at sea off Long Reef on 25 May 1976.
  • 1968 - Lady Cutler, the first of a new series of double-ended ferries is introduced for inner harbour service. The first of the modern "Lady-class" ferries, she will be followed by the similar Lady McKell and Lady Woodward in 1970. Larger versions of the type will follow (Lady Wakehurst in 1974 and Lady Northcott in 1975) and smaller versions in 1979 (Lady Street and Lady Herron). Apart from the unpopular Kooleen, they are the first significant new ferries introduced on the harbour since the early 1920s. Lady Cutler will be decommissioned in 1992.
  • Sydney's first hydrofoil, the 72 seat Manly was introduced on the Manly run in 1965. Travel time to Manly is reduced from 30 minutes to 15 minutes for those willing to pay the higher fare.
    Sydney's first hydrofoil, the 72 seat Manly was introduced on the Manly run in 1965. Travel time to Manly is reduced from 30 minutes to 15 minutes for those willing to pay the higher fare.
  • Lady Cutler (1968-1992), in her original livery. She is the first of the new "Lady-class" ferries
    Lady Cutler (1968-1992), in her original livery. She is the first of the new "Lady-class" ferries
  • Curl Curl (hulked, front) and Dee Why at Strides shipbreakers, 1969. Once the largest and fastest ferries on the harbour, Curl Curl is scuttled at sea later that year, and Dee Why is scuttled in 1976
    Curl Curl (hulked, front) and Dee Why at Strides shipbreakers, 1969. Once the largest and fastest ferries on the harbour, Curl Curl is scuttled at sea later that year, and Dee Why is scuttled in 1976
  • After her 1959 conversion to diesel, the now short-funnelled Kanangra enters Mosman Bay. The Mosman, Cremorne, and Neutral Bay services experience a "mini-boom" in the 1960s due to harbourside home unit development.
    After her 1959 conversion to diesel, the now short-funnelled Kanangra enters Mosman Bay. The Mosman, Cremorne, and Neutral Bay services experience a "mini-boom" in the 1960s due to harbourside home unit development.

1970s

Circular Quay in 1970, when the majority of the fleet were still pre-World War I timber ferries. They were replaced in the 1970s and 80s following government investment in new ferries.
  • 1970 - Lady Woodward and Lady Mckell, similar to Lady Cutler, are introduced to the inner harbour service.
  • 1971 - With
    Baragoola), and the three hydrofoils. Fare increases and service suspensions follow.[24]
  • 1973 - Hydrofoil services to Gladesville commence but are soon stopped.
  • 29 November 1973 - The sixty-three year old Bellubera is withdrawn from service. She is scuttled at sea in 1980.[21]
  • February 1974 - Brambles announces plans to discontinue the large Manly ferries to much public uproar.
  • August 1974 - South Steyne is damaged by fire and pulled out of service.
  • December 1974 - the New South Wales state government dissolves the Sydney Harbour Transport Board, and ferries are added to the Public Transport Commission.[25] The Port Jackson & Manly Steamship Company is also taken over by the Public Transport Commission.[26]
  • 1974 - Lady Wakehurst, a larger version of the previous "Cutler-type" ferry is introduced. The following year, an identical ferry, Lady Northcott is introduced.[27][21] Originally intended for inner harbour service, they are modified and used on the Manly run to cover capacity shortages.
  • January 1975 - Lady Wakehurst is sent to Hobart to assist following the Tasman Bridge disaster.
  • March 1975 - Lady Ferguson and Kosciusko are sent to Hobart to assist following the Tasman Bridge disaster. On arrival, Lady Ferguson is found to be too rotten to be used, while Kosciusko serves for several years in Hobart.
  • 1976 - Patronage on the Manly service reaches a low of five million passengers per year down from its 1945 peak of 13.5 million. It will rise to 7.7 million per year in 1982.
  • 1979 - A smaller and final pair of "Lady class" ferries, the Lady Street and Lady Herron, are introduced for inner harbour service.[27][21] Lady Street is in service until 2002 and Lady Herron until 2017.

1980s

Karingal, Lady Street and Freshwater in Urban Transit Authority colours, Circular Quay, 1983
  • 1980 - All government-run ferry operations, both Manly and inner harbour services, are brought into the newly established Urban Transit Authority (UTA) which separates the functions of the Public Transport Commission. Buses and ferries become the responsibility of the UTA, and trains become the responsibility of the State Rail Authority.[28] The ferries' mid-blue and white colour scheme is replaced with a navy blue and white livery.
  • 1980 - The inaugural Great Ferry Race is held as part of the Festival of Sydney. Entrants are Lady Wakehurst, Kanangra, Lady Cutler, Karrabee, Karingal and the winner, Lady Woodward. Maritime writer, Graeme Andrews, noted that the event showed Sydney "had finally rediscovered its ferries".[29] In 1981, the race is shortened, better organised and won by Karrabee. The event has been held annually ever since, now on Australia Day.
  • December 1982 - The first of the new "
    Collaroy
    , is subsequently ordered and is delivered in 1988.
  • 8 January 1983 - Manly ferry Baragoola (built 1922) makes her final trip following the December 1982 delivery of the Freshwater.
  • 22 January 1984 -
    Kameruka
    , and Karrabee's sister, Karingal, being retired from service.
  • 1984 - Sirius and Supply, the first "First Fleet-class" catamarans are introduced. Seven more will follow; Alexander (1985), Borrowdale (1985), Charlotte (1985), Fishburn (1985), Friendship (1986), Golden Grove (1986) and Scarborough (1986).[30] The nine 400-seat ferries remain the backbone of the current fleet and full upgrades to each ferry in 2020 will extend their lives for another 10 years.
  • 1984/85 - Two 235-seat hydrofoils, Manly (IV) and Sydney, enter service.
  • 1985 - North Head, the longest serving Manly ferry (built as Barrenjoey in 1913), is taken out of service.[31]
  • 1989 - The UTA is replaced in January by the State Transit Authority.[32]
  • Ferries in the inaugural Great Ferry Boat Race, 1980
    Ferries in the inaugural Great Ferry Boat Race, 1980
  • Freshwater launching at Newcastle, 1982, the first of a new class of four Manly ferries.
    Freshwater launching at Newcastle, 1982, the first of a new class of four Manly ferries.
  • 235-seat hydrofoil, Sydney (1985) on its way to Manly.
    235-seat hydrofoil, Sydney (1985) on its way to Manly.
  • Sirius (1984), the first of nine "First Fleet-class" ferries in her original blue and white livery
    Sirius (1984), the first of nine "First Fleet-class" ferries in her original blue and white livery

1990s and 2000s

  • JetCat, Sea Eagle (1991-2008), on its way to Manly, 1991
    JetCat, Sea Eagle (1991-2008), on its way to Manly, 1991
  • Sydney Harbour ferries at Circular Quay, including Sydney JetCats, Freshwater-class ferries and First Fleet-class ferries, 2005
    Sydney Harbour ferries at Circular Quay, including
    First Fleet-class ferries
    , 2005
  • RiverCat type ferry, Nicole Livingstone, on the upper reaches of the Parramatta River
    RiverCat type ferry, Nicole Livingstone, on the upper reaches of the Parramatta River
  • "SuperCats" were introduced in 2000 and 2001.
    "SuperCats" were introduced in 2000 and 2001.

2010s and 2020s

First Fleet-class ferries
, 2013
  • On 1 April 2010 - Sydney Fast Ferries commences a five-year franchise to operate the former JetCat service between Circular Quay and Manly.[46][47] The service only operates during peak-hour on weekdays.[48]
  • July 2012 - Harbour City Ferries, becomes the contracted operator of Sydney Ferries services under contract.[49][50][51][52][53]
  • 1 April 2015 - The Bass & Flinders fleet commences with three existing and two leased vessels. Four new Incat built vessels are delivered by the end of the year, two 24 metres long and two 33 metres long.[54][55][56]
  • December 2016 - Harbour City Ferries became fully owned by Transdev Australasia after Transdev bought out Broadspectrum's 50% shareholding.[57] As of December 2016, Harbour City Ferries employs more than 650 people and its fleet consisted of 32 vessels.[57]
  • 2017 - Bass & Flinders orders a third 33-metre fast ferry from Incat.[58]
  • June 2017 - The first of six new catamaran ferries, the "Emerald class", are introduced.[59][60]
  • September 2017 - Bass & Flinders is renamed Manly Fast Ferry and commences trading as
    My Fast Ferry.[61][62]
  • October 2017 - The introduction of the
    Lady class ferries, Lady Northcott and Lady Herron, to be withdrawn in October 2017.[63]
  • December 2017 - The Manly Fast Ferry service is purchased by the NRMA.[64]
  • October 2018 - Fantasea Cruising is taken over by the NRMA with 10 ferries and 10 water taxis on Sydney Harbour and Pittwater.[65][66]
  • July 2019 - Harbour City Ferries commences a new contract to operate the ferries until June 2028.[67] To coincide with the contract, Harbour City Ferries is rebranded Transdev Sydney Ferries.[68]
  • 2020 - The 35-year old "First Fleet-class" catamarans undergo major upgrades to provide them with another 10 years of service. The changes to all nine ferries include upgraded engines, refurbished interiors, the provision of air conditioning and additional safety features.[69]
  • June 2021 Manly Ferry Narrabeen is quietly taken out of service as her engine hours run out despite having another year still on her survey. This marks the beginning of the end for the Freshwater-Class ferries.
  • October 2021 The first River-class ferry enters service.
  • 13 October 2021 - Manly ferry Queenscliff (1983) is retired from service.
  • 31 October 2021 The first of the new generation 2 Emerald-class ferries "Fairlight" enters service on the Manly ferry service.[70]
  • November 2021 The remaining 2 new Emerald-class ferries enter service.[70]
  • 8 December 2021 Plans to retire Manly ferry "Narrabeen" are scrapped and an engine rebuild commences on the vessel.[71]
  • 18 December 2021 SuperCat "Saint Mary Mackillop" is retired from service.[72]
  • 2022 The River-class ferries slowly enter service as numerous problems with the vessels are solved.[73]
  • 1 January 2022 Old Manly ferry Baragoola sinks at its wharf at the Coal Loader in Waverton.[74]
  • 12 March 2022 The new Emerald-class ferries are cleared to operate in swells up to 4.5 metres after growing concern that the vessels were not able to operate in high seas.[75]
  • 27 July 2022 HarbourCat "Anne Sargeant" is retired from service.
  • September 2022 The Emerald Class ferries are withdrawn from service after two major steering failures. Freshwater & Collaroy return to service for nearly 2 weeks while problems are rectified.[76]
  • 16 February 2023 RiverCat "Betty Cuthbert" is retired from service.
  • 6 June 2023 It is announced that the Manly ferries "Queenscliff" & "Narrabeen" will be returned to service after they were retired in 2021 while the "Collaroy" will be withdrawn from service in September. "Queenscliff" is expected to enter service in November 2023.[77]
  • 26 July 2023 HarbourCat "Pam Burridge" is retired from service.
  • 27 September 2023 After 35 years of service, the Manly Ferry "Collaroy" is retired. She is moved to Cockatoo Island the following day to be docked alongside her sistership "Narrabeen" for long term storage.
  • 27 November 2023 2 years after being retired, "Queenscliff" returns to service on the F1. This is the first time in Sydney Ferries' history that any vessel has been brought out of retirement.
  • A Manly fast ferry vessel arriving at Manly Wharf, 2013
    A
    Manly fast ferry
    vessel arriving at Manly Wharf, 2013
  • SuperCat Susie O'Neil at Sydney Ferries maintenance base, Balmain, 2013
    SuperCat Susie O'Neil at Sydney Ferries maintenance base, Balmain, 2013
  • Collaroy (1988) and Supply (1984) in their current livery
    Collaroy (1988) and Supply (1984) in their current livery
  • Emerald-class ferry, Victor Chang
    Emerald-class ferry, Victor Chang
  • Freshwater-class ferry Queenscliff on her second day back in service in 2023
    Freshwater-class ferry Queenscliff on her second day back in service in 2023

See also

Notes

  1. ^ a b c Gunter (1978), p. 11
  2. ISBN 978-0-86777-091-9
    . Unknown ID 386.6099441 MEA.
  3. ^ Prescott (1984), p 11
  4. ^ a b Andrews (1982), p. 12
  5. ^ "Smith, Henry Gilbert (1802–1886)". Biography – Henry Gilbert Smith. A.F. Pike. Retrieved 2012-04-30.
  6. ^ "Myall Lakes Shipwrecks" (PDF).
  7. ISBN 0727007157
    .
  8. ISBN 0909650055
    .
  9. ^ "Hindsight", Mosman Magazine, pp. 28–29, February 2010
  10. ISBN 0589503863
    .
  11. ^ Sydney Living Museums
  12. ISBN 0-7270-0715-7
    .
  13. ^ Sydney Ferries Transport for NSW
  14. ISBN 0-589-07172-6
    .
  15. ISBN 0909418306
    .
  16. ^ Morcombe, John (26 May 2019). "The Bellubera Had Its Fair Share of Controversies During Its Time". The Manly Daily. Retrieved 6 June 2019.
  17. ^ Elbourne, Wonderful Kuttabul
  18. ^ Jenkins, Battle Surface, pp. 213–5
  19. ^ "Ferries bought for £25,000". The Daily Telegraph. Vol. XVI, no. 71. New South Wales, Australia. 14 June 1951. p. 1. Retrieved 30 September 2021 – via National Library of Australia.
  20. ^
    ISBN 0-589-07172-6
    .
  21. ^
    ISBN 0-86777-091-0
    .
  22. ^ a b c Down Under Foils Classic Fast Ferries June 2002
  23. ^ a b Do you remember the Hydrofoils Part 1 Afloat Magazine June 2007
  24. ^ a b c Tom Mead (1994). Manly Ferries of Sydney Harbour: The Seven Mile Ships. Sydney: Dolphin Books.
  25. ^ Sydney Harbour Transport Board NSW State Records
  26. ISBN 0-424-00202-7
    .
  27. ^ a b Sydney Ferries Fleet Facts Archived 2015-04-12 at the Wayback Machine Transport for NSW
  28. ^ Urban Transit Authority of New South Wales NSW Government State Records
  29. ^ Andrews (1982), p. 9
  30. ^ Sydney Ferries Fleet Facts Archived 12 April 2015 at the Wayback Machine Transport for NSW
  31. ISBN 0589503863
    .
  32. ^ "New name for Urban Transit" Fleetline February 1989 page 22
  33. ^ Do you remember the Hydrofoils Part 2 Afloat Magazine July 2007
  34. ^ History Sydney Ferries
  35. ^ Parramatta RiverCat Ferry Services New South Wales Legislative Assembly Hansard 25 February 1992
  36. ^ Fifty Years of Sydney's Public Ferries Afloat Magazine June 2009
  37. ^ Supercat makes rare appearance at Manly Manly Daily 19 July 2013
  38. Sydney Morning Herald
     9 April 2007
  39. ^ "Captain forced to ground vessel at Chowder Bay to avoid sinking after collision with collier". The Manly Daily. 11 March 2017. Retrieved 10 November 2019.
  40. ^ "Crash ferries face special inquiry". The Daily Telegraph. 3 April 2007.
  41. ^ Bret Walker (2007). "Sydney Ferries Report" (PDF). NSW Transport. Archived from the original (PDF) on 25 March 2012. Retrieved 2013-01-20.
  42. ^ Deborah Cornwall (2009-04-20). "Rees paralysed over Sydney Ferry reform". ABC 7.30 Report. Retrieved 2013-01-20.
  43. ^ Linton Bessera & Robert Wainwright (2001-11-01). "Sydney Ferries' day of reckoning". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2013-01-20.
  44. ^ Calls for Expressions of Interest for Manly Fast Ferry Minister for Transport 9 December 2008
  45. ^ Jet Car Withdrawal and Manly Fast Ferry Commencement NSW Ministry of Transport
  46. ^ Manly High Speed Ferry Service NSW eTendering 10 August 2009
  47. ^ Contract Notice Award Detail Archived 13 December 2014 at the Wayback Machine NSW eTendering 8 March 2010
  48. ^ About us Archived 4 January 2015 at the Wayback Machine Sydney Fast Ferries
  49. ^ "Transfield JV wins Sydney Ferries contract". news.com.au. 3 May 2012.
  50. ^ Harbour City Ferries Transport for NSW
  51. ^ "Harbour City Ferries". Harbour City Ferries. 2013. Archived from the original on 9 April 2013. Retrieved 9 April 2013.
  52. Sydney Morning Herald
    3 May 2012
  53. ^ Steady as he goes: ferries sail into private hands Sydney Morning Herald 28 July 2012
  54. ^ Rough seas in new fast ferry deal involving the two current operators Daily Telegraph 26 March 2015
  55. ^ Tasmanian shipbuilder Incat wins contract to build four Manly fast ferries ABC News 2 May 2015
  56. Hobart Mercury
    3 May 2015
  57. ^ a b TRANSDEV AUSTRALASIA ACQUIRES 100% OF HARBOUR CITY FERRIES, Transdev Australasia, Published 8 December 2016, Retrieved 19 January 2018
  58. ^ Hull 092 Incat
  59. ^ "Fred Hollows enters service". Transport for NSW. 26 June 2017. Archived from the original on 26 June 2017. Retrieved 28 June 2017.
  60. ^ McPhee, Sarah (26 June 2017). "New Barangaroo Wharf open for ferries". news.com.au. Australian Associated Press. Retrieved 28 June 2017.
  61. ^ Manly Fast Ferry ASIC 23 June 2018
  62. ^ My Fast Ferry ASIC 28 September 2017
  63. ^ O'Sullivan, Matt (24 October 2017). "Fate of Sydney's last ladies of the harbour finally sealed". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 24 October 2017.
  64. ^ NRMA invests in Manly Fast Ferry NRMA 7 December 2017
  65. ^ NRMA acquires Fantasea Cruising NRMA 25 October 2018
  66. ^ NRMA buys Palm Beach ferry service Coast Community News 5 November 2018
  67. Sydney Morning Herald
    27 February 2019
  68. ^ "Transdev secures €815 million Sydney Ferries renewal contract until 2028". Transdev. 7 March 2019. Archived from the original on 29 March 2019. Retrieved 30 March 2019.
  69. ^ Rubbo, Luisa (19 June 2020). "Sydney ferries get a facelift at Port Macquarie to extend life 'just shy of 50 years'". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 19 June 2020.
  70. ^ a b Ship Technology
  71. ^ "Live: NSW Now: Sydney ferry saved from mothballs after underperformance of new models". ABC News. 9 December 2021.
  72. ^ "St Mary's ferry retires". 24 January 2022.
  73. ^ "Live: NSW Now: More than 40 defects identified across Sydney's River-class ferries". ABC News. 16 January 2022.
  74. ^ "Historic former Manly ferry sinks in Sydney Harbour". 2 January 2022.
  75. ^ "Ferries pass test". 12 March 2022.
  76. ^ "multiple steering failures in 2 days". The Guardian. 27 September 2022.
  77. ^ "Ferries kept in Operation". 6 June 2023.

References

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