Winter Cruise Steam Boat Sunday 28th June
This year’s Winter Cruise was aboard the “Grower” part of the Classic Steamboat Cruises fleet on the Yarra River at Southbank. A lovely sunny morning greeted a group BMYS guests at Beth 3 as we gathered for an 11.15 departure.
Skipper Hamish gave us a run down on Grower’s history. MV Grower is an historic ferry built in 1924 and lovingly restored over a number of years by owner-operator Hamish Turner. Grower is the oldest vessel currently operating on the upper reaches of Melbourne’s once industrial waterways. Grower’s capacity for short transfers is up to 43, and up to 30 passengers for longer charters.
The first part of the trip was upstream past Fed Square, Birrarung Marr and under the Swan Street bridge. After returning to Southbank we continued downstream under the very low bridges past the Aquarium and the sailing ship Polly Woodside.
After docking back at Southbank the group gathered for lunch in PJ O’Briens. Lots of stories and good food ensued.
Thanks to everyone who came along and the Boating Committee for organising the day. Also thank to Hamish and his brown labrador retriever for looking after us on the cruise.
Cameron Bean
Boating Director
