Named after the wife of the First Governor-General of Australia, the Lady Hopetoun was built in Berry’s Bay and launched on 10th April 1902. (See 1902 newspaper article)
For many years she served as the VIP launch for the NSW State Government. Her hull which is largely original, is constructed from New Zealand kauri planks on American elm frames. Her deckhouse is teak. She still retains her original triple-expansion steam engine, but her original boiler was replaced in the 1920s. A new coal-fired boiler was again installed in 1997.
Early photo of Lady Hopetoun
Lady Hopetoun today
With her low profile, raked lines and graceful counter stern, Lady Hopetoun is a classic example of Edwardian grace and style. From the comfort of her decks a great number of notable people including the Duke of York (later King George VI), the King and Queen of Thailand and Lord Montgomery of Alamein have enjoyed Sydney Harbour.
She was the first vessel acquired by the Sydney Heritage Fleet and although still operational, was showing obvious signs of age.
In 1990 she was slipped for six months during which time her original copper sheathing was taken off, many of her frames replaced and her engine and boiler were removed for a complete overhaul.
Vital Statistics:
Overall length
77ft (23.5m)
Beam
13ft-10in (4.2m)
Displacement
30 tons
Powered by
Triple expansion steam engine
Acquired by the Fleet
1965
For dates of scheduled public trips on Lady hopetoun, and links for more information and bookings, see What's On When.
Lady Hopetoun is available for charter between 10:00am and 10:00pm on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. She carries 25 passengers on four-hour cruises of Sydney Harbour.
For further charter information, or to make a charter reservation, contact the Membership Co-ordinator on 02 9298 3841 or email mdalton@shf.org.au
