The Australian National Maritime Museum, in proud partnership with the Sydney Amateur Sailing Club and the Wooden Boat Association of NSW is delighted to announce the Century-old Fleet, a unique gathering of 13 historic vessels that have graced Sydney Harbour for over a century. This extraordinary event celebrates the enduring legacy of amateur sailing and the craftsmanship of bygone eras, bringing together a fleet of vessels each over 100 years old.
From October 1-11, visitors to the museum's Heritage Pontoon will witness a rare assembly of maritime history. These vessels, lovingly restored and still operational, represent the spirit of adventure, resilience, and community that has defined Sydney's relationship with the sea.
Among the featured vessels are:
- SY Ena (1900) - A beautifully restored Edwardian steam yacht which showcases the elegance of early luxury vessels once used for naval patrols, fishing, and grand harbor entertaining.
- Hoana (1925) – A gaff-rigged sloop built by James Hayes & Sons, renowned for its circumnavigation and racing pedigree with the Sydney Amateur Sailing Club.
- Jenny Wren (1889) – One of the oldest racing yachts in Australia, designed by Walter Reeks and built by Thomas Cubitt, showcasing early innovations in yacht design.
- Utiekah II (1911) – Commissioned for character-building voyages with Melbourne Grammar students, later owned by Harold Nossiter, the first Australian to circumnavigate the globe in a yacht.
- Sao (1905) – Built by WM Ford Boatbuilders, this deep-keeled yacht is one of the most intact examples of early 20th-century design and was once sailed by Charles Kingsford Smith.
- Maritimo-Katwinchar (1904) – A restored racing yacht with a storied past, including participation in the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and a recent return to competitive sailing.
- Akarana, Athene, Florrie, Oenone, Benno, Sea Rover, Ventura – Each with its own tale of survival, restoration, and continued service, these vessels embody the diversity and richness of Australia's maritime history.
The Century-old Fleet is more than a display; it's a living museum.
From October 1-6, there will be a series of activations that will allow visitors a deeper understanding on the work that goes into preserving and maintaining century-old vessels. These include caulking and varnishing demonstrations, rope tying and splicing workshops, and a competition which will allow visitors to enter a competition draw to win a high-quality set of Japanese saws from Australian Japanese Tools.
Ms Daryl Karp AM, Director and CEO of the Museum said, 'This display is a tribute to the enduring spirit of Sydney's sailing community. Each vessel tells a story of craftsmanship, resilience, and the joy of life on the water. We honour the spirit and tradition of Australian sailing.
Join us in celebrating the vessels that have weathered time, tide, and transformation. The Century-old Fleet is a rare opportunity to step back into history and experience the harbour as it once was, alive with canvas, timber, and tales of the sea.
