Ferries of Western Port, Victoria by John Jansson The first ferry to operate the Cowes run was paddle steamer Sarah 17/11 tons, 54.3 x 11.4 x 5.4 feet, ON 31889, built by Peter Tainsh, Port Albert, Victoria, 1869. Converted to screw steamer 1874. An advert on Jan 6 1873 stated: Cowes (Phillip Island) by COACH and STEAMER. COACH leaves Cobb’s office for this delightful watering-place on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, at 7 am, connecting with steamboat (Sarah) at Hastings, and returning from Phillip Island on alternate days. Return tickets at reduced fares. On and after Monday December 23, the above coach will leave Melbourne daily. Special coaches can be arranged for ROBERTSON and Co., Proprietors. (Last advertisement until Eclipse starts 1 Nov 1876) The next was Iron screw steamer Eclipse 28/19 tons, 69 x 10.1 x 5.3 feet,...
