The New Steam Launch.

Manawatu Herald, 5 April 1898, Page 3

The New Steam Launch.

The new steam launch the 11 Flower of Kent," which 13 intended for the river trade here, should prove a very serviceable boat for the work. She is very strongly built, light draught, and having plenty of engine power is able to tow the largest vessels, and should prove a boon to masters of sailer 3 frequenting this port. She is at present in charge of Capt. Butt, well known as formerly skipper of the steamara " Napier " and " Lyttleton," trading here some years ago. Mr Shaw (one of the owners), late of the " Helen Ball ance " is in charge of the engines. On Sunday afternoon, the launch left the wharf with a party of about thirty on board intent on having an outing over the bar. After standing out to saa for about five miles, she lay-to and the most of the party being provided with lines, a pleasant tim? was spent in fishing. Being short of bait the catch on the whole was not a large one, but come fine pchnapper were landed, also a splendid hapuka. After partaking of sons 9 light luncheon in the roomy fore cabin, the vessel's head was turned hr the river again, steaming close to a shoal of porpois-es on her way to the bar. The wharf was reached again at six p.m , the trip altogether occupying about three hours. If sufficient inducement offers, it is proposed to run a trip to Kapati Island on Good Fricay, leaving the wharf hero about 7 a.m. returning tho fame evening. The launch is licensed for 48 passengers, and is well supplied with the usual life-saving apparatus.