New operators, Charles Burns and Julie Porter took ownership of SV Rhona H in January 2014. They come from very different backgrounds: Julie a Credentialed Mental Health Nurse; Charles a mechanic and Marine Engineer“.
SV Rhona H” was professionally built by Tasmanian shipwright Ned Jack in the best of timbers, Huon Pine over Celery Top frames. At 52ft the Huon Pine fishing vessel was built for Frier Youl of Symmons Plains. She was sold around 1946 to Max Hardy, a Tasmanian fisherman based in Stanley, a small fishing town in rural North West Tasmania. Max helped started the crayfish industry in North West Tasmania as he discovered crayfish on the continental shelf off southern Tasmania.
SV Rhona H fished commercially until converted for sail training and charter work in 1990. She has seen many trips across Bass Straight, travelling across to Queenscliff as well as to King and Flinders Islands. This beautiful classic is now based in Hobart at Elizabeth St Pier.
Julie and Charles offer a range of experiences whilst restoring SV
Rhona H to her former glory
As well as short sails on the River Derwent, longer day sails to
Kettering, and longer still to Bruny Is and Port Arthur, we will
offer programs for individuals and small groups.
There are plans for a Tasmanian circumnavigation (after our first 12 months).
Charles and Julie really want to re-establish the art of traditional sailing and skills: knots, splicing & fancy rope work.
Rhona H Mats and other fancy mats available on board.
