THE EXCURSION TO THE WEST COAST SOUNDS.

Kumara Times, Issue 2023, 22 February 1883, Page 2

THE EXCURSION TO THE WEST COAST SOUNDS.

An excursionist by the Terawera telegraphed from the Bluff to the Duuedin Star the following account of the excursion to the West Coast Sounds in the Union Company's new steamer Tarawera, Malcolm, captain : We left Port Chalmers with 175 excursionists at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, February 7th, and had a fine smooth run to Preservation Inlet, where we arrived at two on the Bth. The scenery of the inlet is grand. The passengers fished and shot, the result being the capture of two paroquets, a groper, and about a cartload of trumpeter, blue cod, crayfish, &o. We passed the 9th at Chalky Inlet, which is not nearly so grand as Preservation Inlet. There was more fishing and shooting; fish being plentiful, but not a bird was caught. On the 10th we were enjoying the magnificent scenery of Dusky Sound, especially the Wet Jacket Arm. On the 11th we visited Doubtful and Bradshaw Sounds, and on Monday, the 12th, the programme was altered, and we visited Hall's Arm; thence we went to Caswell Sound, and on the 13th, early, we started for George Sound. The weather was squally and wet, and at night it increased to a gaJp, accompanied by drenching rain. On the 14th, the weather being still very bad—wet, windy, and cloudy, we re*

mained anchored in George Sound all day, waiting for the weather to clear up, and to enable us to start for Milford. On the 14th the weather cleared, and wo started at dawn for Milford, the climate of which is decidedly damp. The glorious scenery of the Sound was greatly admired. The waterfalls were in full swing. We left at one o'clock for homo. The early part of the trip was very successful, but bad weather somewhat marred the rest. The company did everything possible for the passengers' comfort and convenience. Dr. Hector lectured in George Sound on the "Zoological History of the Sound," and the passengers and crew gave nigntly concerts, the principal vocalists being Mr R. Gillies, Lord Lennox, Dr. Von. Haast, Miss E. Jones, and some of the ship's company. The vessel was very crowded, but no accident or difficulty of any kind occurred