| Type : |
Passenger launch |
| Launched : |
1945 |
| Builder : |
unknown unknown |
| Gross weight : |
16 tonnes |
| Dimensions : |
40 x 12 x 5 (feet) |
| Passenger capacity : |
49 |
| Speed : |
unknown |
The hull of the Codock II was built during or immediately after World War II, as a standard 40’ workboat destined for the defence forces. These vessels were almost exclusively powered by the model 671 Grey Marine Diesel engines (the Detroit Diesels of today). Originally Codock II would have been fitted with very limited accommodation for two in a short trunk cabin forward, with a shelter for the crew t the steering station, with an open well aft of that for carrying cargo and or personnel.
This particular vessel was acquired by Cockatoo Dockyard in 1947 and converted to the layout seen to-day as a passenger vessel to ferry employees to and from Cockatoo Island and to and from ships around the harbour.
Codock II shared these duties with a number of similar vessels, some of whom are still working on the harbour, however Codock II was given special attention such as her interior finish in teak to also serve as the VIP launch assigned to other duties such as transporting special guests of the company and carrying management when attending special functions etc.
Much of the construction, modification and repair work on these vessels were done by the apprentices on Cockatoo Dockyards. It is not unusual when removing fittings etc for repair or replacement, to find a name or a date written underneath. The interior varnished teak trim was the waste or off cuts salvaged from the refitting of merchant and passenger vessels that had seen war service and were restored at Cockatoo (and other shipyards) for handing back to their owners for normal civilian service.
Despite her years, Codock II is a very sound vessel, her under planking is protected by copper sheathing, but most importantly whilst she has had a busy sixty or so years of continuos hard service, Codock II has undergone annual slipping and survey as a passenger carrying vessel.
Codock II was in daily service up until Cockatoo Dockyard was shut down. She was purchased at that time at auction by Doyle’s of Watson’s Bay, and after some modifications it was intended to use her to transport patrons from Circular Quay to Watson’s Bay and return; however she did not see extensive service and was purchased by a Rosmans Ferries for a period and then by Moonlight Charters in 1995. She was used to transport picnickers to various harbour islands and similar short trips.
Codock II was purchased by her present owners Central Coast Ferries in 2006 for use on a new expanded ferry run linking Woy Woy, Hardys Bay & Ettalong areas.
Information and image provideed by Central Coast Ferries.