# Freshwater-class ferry

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Ferry class operating services on Sydney Harbour

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Freshwater class Collaroy in 2008 Class overview Builders State Dockyard Newcastle (2) and later Carrington Slipways Newcastle (2) Operators Franchisee Transdev Sydney Ferries Preceded by South Steyne, Dee Why class, Binngarra Completed 4 Active 3 Retired 1 General characteristics Displacement 1,140 tons (loaded) Length 70.4 m (231 ft 0 in) Beam 13.06 m (42 ft 10 in) Draught 3.35 m (11 ft 0 in) Decks 2 Ramps 4 hydraulic passenger ramps Propulsion 2x feathering propellers. One on each end. Capacity 1,100 Crew 6 Notes Double ended single hull of welded steel construction. Welded aluminium alloy superstructure.

The ***Freshwater* class** is a class of [ferry](/source/Ferry) operating the [Manly ferry service](/source/Manly_ferry_services) between [Circular Quay](/source/Circular_Quay) and [Manly](/source/Manly%2C_New_South_Wales) on [Sydney Harbour](/source/Port_Jackson). The ferries are owned by the [Government of New South Wales](/source/Government_of_New_South_Wales) and operated by the franchisee [Transdev Sydney Ferries](/source/Transdev_Sydney_Ferries) under the government's [Sydney Ferries](/source/Sydney_Ferries) brand.

## History

The need for new ferries on the [Manly](/source/Manly%2C_New_South_Wales)–[Circular Quay](/source/Circular_Quay) service was identified during the mid-1970s, during which time the service was characterised by deteriorating quality and low patronage.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

The ferries were also used to travel to [Port Kembla](/source/Port_Kembla%2C_New_South_Wales) and [Wollongong](/source/Wollongong), [Broken Bay](/source/Broken_Bay) and the [Central Coast](/source/Central_Coast_(New_South_Wales)), and [Newcastle](/source/Newcastle%2C_New_South_Wales) during the 1990s, since they had features that would allow them to travel past the [Sydney Heads](/source/Sydney_Heads) and into the [Tasman Sea](/source/Tasman_Sea).[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

### Decline of the Manly ferries

Prior to 1971, the ferry services on the Manly–Circular Quay route were operated by the [Port Jackson & Manly Steamship Company](/source/Port_Jackson_%26_Manly_Steamship_Company). In that year, the company posted a modest profit of $112,000. Patronage was approaching all-time lows, but the growth prospect for ferry services was considered strong. In November 1971, the company attracted a $1.5 million takeover bid from diversified transport company [Brambles Industries](/source/Brambles_Limited). The initial bid was rejected, but a later offer of $2.1 million was accepted.[1]

When Brambles took over, the Manly fleet consisted of four ferries: [*South Steyne*](/source/SS_South_Steyne), [*North Head*](/source/MV_North_Head), [*Bellubera*](/source/Bellubera) and [*Baragoola*](/source/Baragoola), plus [hydrofoils](/source/Sydney_hydrofoils) *Manly*, *Fairlight* and *Dee Why*. Almost immediately, the hydrofoils were sold to Waltons Finance and leased back. The four ferries were all ageing and expensive to maintain, and it soon became evident that Brambles intended to close the service or sell the ships to the [State Government](/source/Government_of_New_South_Wales) at the earliest opportunity. Fare increases and service suspensions followed. *Bellubera* was withdrawn from service on 14 December 1973; *Baragoola* was to follow early the next year. Public outrage and fears that the service would be suspended entirely led to the government resuming responsibility for the operation of the ferries in February 1974.[1]

Concerns about the ongoing serviceability of the existing vessels led to a decision to modify the design of the *[Lady Wakehurst](/source/Lady-class_ferry)* and *[Lady Northcott](/source/Lady-class_ferry)*, then under construction for use on the inner harbour routes, so that they could be used as relief boats on the Manly run. On 27 August 1974 the public timetable was reduced to require only two ships. The decision to modify the two Lady-class vessels proved fortuitous; as both *North Head* and *Baragoola* had to be sent for major overhauls, and the smaller ferries acted as relief ships while these works were carried out.

During the naming ceremony for *Lady Northcott* on 11 February 1975, then-Liberal Minister for Transport [Wal Fife](/source/Wal_Fife) announced that two new ferries would be introduced to the Manly service within three years.[1]

### The Burness Corlett report

First Fleet-class ferry *Alexander* passes *Freshwater*-class ferry *Narrabeen*. The *Freshwater* class are the largest ferries in the Sydney Ferries fleet.

A study by maritime consultants Burness Corlett Australia was released in July 1976. It investigated the requirements of new vessels to replace *North Head* and *Baragoola* by 1978. Various configurations were considered, including conventional [monohull](/source/Monohull), [catamaran](/source/Catamaran), [hovercraft](/source/Hovercraft) and [hydrofoil](/source/Hydrofoil). Planing ferries of both single and twin-hull configuration were rejected, as such a configuration cannot be double-ended and therefore would have required berthing stern-first. Hydrofoils were also rejected from consideration due to excessive cost and limited passenger capacity. Two options were selected for detailed investigation: monohull and twin-hull, both double-ended and having 1,200 passenger capacity.[2]

Detailed designs and blueprints were prepared for both options. The study recommended the selection of the twin-hull due to the higher service frequency achievable (due to the twin-hull's faster speed of 18 [knots](/source/Knot_(unit)), 33 km/h, 21 mph versus 14.5 knots, 26.9 km/h, 16.7 mph), however the study noted that other than this, there was relatively little difference between the options. The twin-hull was designed with dimensions of 63-metre (206 ft 8 in) length, 12.8-metre (42 ft 0 in) [beam](/source/Beam_(nautical)), and 3.3-metre (10 ft 10 in) [draft](/source/Draft_(hull)), while the monohull design was 67-metre (219 ft 10 in) length, 11.6-metre (38 ft 1 in) beam, and 4.27-metre (14 ft 0 in) draft. The wider beam of the twin-hull design would exceed the limits of the existing wharves at Circular Quay, and necessitate a reconfiguration of the wharves if selected. Burness Corlett were confident that the twin-hull option was the superior choice, due to service speed and stability through [Sydney Heads](/source/Sydney_Heads), and so no model tests were performed for the monohull design.[2]

Burness Corlett predicted that either design would take approximately 21 months to construct, and that if the new ferries were to be introduced in 1978 as planned, an aggressive construction program would have to begin immediately, with tenders to be called no later than April 1976 (the report was not even released until three months after this date).[2]

### New ferries announced

After a change of government at the [1976 election](/source/1976_New_South_Wales_state_election), the new Labor government's Transport Minister [Peter Cox](/source/Peter_Cox_(politician)) announced that tenders would be called for the construction of a new "super ferry" in line with the results of the engineering study, to carry up to 1,200 passengers at speeds of 18 knots.

*Freshwater* being launched in 1982

On 9 January 1978, the traditional three-ship Manly Ferry timetable was reintroduced. The service was operated with *Baragoola* (1922), *North Head* (1913) and either *Lady Wakehurst* or *Lady Northcott*. However, the modified Lady-class ships were not good substitutes for the two older vessels, as the newer Lady ferries were too small and too slow for the Manly service. Particularly, the Lady-class ships were barely able to keep to the published timetable in peak hours.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*] Following the return of the Labor government at the [state election on 7 October 1978](/source/1978_New_South_Wales_state_election), the [Labor Party](/source/New_South_Wales_Labor_Party)'s [Alan Stewart](/source/Alan_Stewart_(Australian_politician)) became the member for Manly. This provided a fresh political impetus for the state Labor administration to order the new Manly ferries.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

Steelwork for *Freshwater* was laid down at the [State Dockyard](/source/State_Dockyard) on 31 October 1980. Strike actions delayed completion until June 1982. The ferry terminals at [Circular Quay](/source/Circular_Quay_ferry_wharf) and [Manly](/source/Manly_ferry_wharf) were substantially modified to accommodate the larger ferries, including the installation of wide height-adjustable two-level hydraulic ramps.[3] Additionally a new bus-interchange was built in the wharf forecourt at Manly.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

### Proposed retirement 2021–2023

*Queenscliff'*s final trip to Manly before her previously planned retirement. However, the ship has since been given a major overhaul and returned to service.

There were plans to replace the *Freshwater*-class ferries with three new Emerald-class catamaran ferries in 2021. In November 2020, transport minister [Andrew Constance](/source/Andrew_Constance) announced that when the new ferries are put into operation, *Collaroy* would be retained in service until at least 2023 for weekend operation.[4] On 14 January 2021 it was announced that *Freshwater* would also be retained for future services. *Queenscliff* was retired on 13 October 2021, not long after the new [Emerald-class vessels](/source/Emerald-class_ferry) began operating.[5] *Queenscliff* had been in service for 38 years, just over half the time that the previous *Binngarra*-class vessels had operated (63 years). On 10 December 2021, it was announced that *Narrabeen* would get an engine rebuild. She had been in storage since June of that year as her engine hours had expired and the engines needed a major overhaul. As of January 2022, the old engines had been dismantled as part of commencing work on the overhaul.[6] On 13 June 2022 it was announced that *Collaroy* would be retired and replaced with *Queenscliff* instead. Along with this it was also announced that *Narrabeen*'s engine rebuild had been cancelled.[7]

On 27 September 2023, *Collaroy* was retired and next day was moved to [Cockatoo Island](/source/Cockatoo_Island). Her last arrival into Circular Quay involved a ceremonious horn battle between *Collaroy* and the other vessels before she dropped off her final load and returned to Balmain. The following day she was moved to Cockatoo Island, alongside *Narrabeen*, for long-term storage.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

### Return to service (2023–2025)

After the [2023 New South Wales state election](/source/2023_New_South_Wales_state_election) it was announced by transport minister [Jo Haylen](/source/Jo_Haylen) that the state government intended to return as many as possible of the four *Freshwater*-class ferries to full time service.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

*Freshwater* had had a major drydocking and refit in February–March 2021, allowing the vessel to continue in service for another five years before another large refit is required (due before 2026).[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

*Freshwater* departing Manly Cove in 2024 in her post 2021 refit livery. This livery was made standard during the reintroduction of the vessels.

*Queenscliff* was in storage at Cockatoo Island for around 18 months. In mid-2023, she was given a major refit, with a second drydock in August, which enabled her to be returned to service on 27 November 2023. Again this will allow the vessel to continue in service for another five years before this is required again (due in 2028).[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

*Narrabeen* was deteriorating in storage at Cockatoo Island after her "retirement" in 2021, but was intended to come back to service in 2022 after an engine rebuild. After much delay, it was announced that the engine rebuild was cancelled due to supply chain issues and expense, and the vessel was retired officially. However, after the 2023 state election transport minister Haylen announced that *Narrabeen* would return. Following a refit, including a rebuild of the engines and a new control system, she returned to full service in October 2025.[8]

*Collaroy* was retired in 2023 after it was decided that it would not be economically viable to return her to duty due to her mechanical differences to her sisters.[9] In January 2026, it was announced that *Collaroy* will be scrapped.[10]

In September 2024, Transport for NSW announced that the Government would be opening a [tender](/source/Invitation_to_tender) process for electric ferries on the Manly route.[9]

## Vessels

### *Freshwater*

Freshwater in 2025 Namesake Freshwater Beach Cost $8.5 million[1] Launched 27 March 1982 Completed December 1982 In service 18 December 1982 Identification Call sign: VJ4671 IMO number: 7923914 MMSI number: 503603000 Status Out Of Service; Undergoing Refurbishment

**[MV](/source/Motor_Vessel) *Freshwater*** is the [lead ship](/source/Lead_ship) of the four *Freshwater*-class ferries.[11] It is named after [Freshwater Beach](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Freshwater_Beach&action=edit&redlink=1) on Sydney's [Northern Beaches](/source/Northern_Beaches_(Sydney)). It was launched on 27 March 1982 by Olive Cox and commissioned by her husband, [Minister for Transport](/source/Minister_for_Transport_(New_South_Wales)) [Peter Cox](/source/Peter_Cox_(politician)), on 18 December 1982.

The three-month old ferry ran aground at [Manly Cove](/source/Manly_Cove) in March 1983 after overshooting the wharf following a computer failure.[12] On 30 March 1985, *Freshwater* was hijacked by a man who threatened to shoot passengers unless the captain piloted the ferry beyond Sydney Heads into the ocean. The hijacker was subdued after a police officer boarded the vessel and fired three warning shots. It turned out that the man, a New Zealander, had not been carrying a gun, but an empty vodka bottle (the second of two that he had consumed before boarding the vessel) had been concealed under his jacket. After a short jail sentence, the man returned to New Zealand in January 1986 by stowing away on the [*Oriana*](/source/SS_Oriana_(1959)), for which he was also fined.[13][14][15]

While there were plans to retire the ship by 2021, a decision was eventually made to keep *Freshwater* and *Queenscliff* operating, with *Collaroy* and *Narrabeen* to be retired.[7] However, following the [2023 New South Wales state election](/source/2023_New_South_Wales_state_election), the plan was to maintain *Freshwater*, *Queenscliff* and *Narrabeen* in full-time service. *Freshwater* is currently undergoing refurbishment works, which will extend her life by 5 years once completed.[9]

		- Under construction, NSW State Dockyard October 1981

		- Launched, 27 March 1982

		- On her first run to Manly, 18 December 1982, in her original Urban Transit Authority livery and showing original window arrangement

		- *Freshwater* departs Circular Quay displaying her opened upper deck seating areas; these were opened in the early 2000s.

		- *Freshwater* arriving at Circular Quay

### *Queenscliff*

Queenscliff in 2024 Namesake Queenscliff Beach Cost $8.5 million[1] Launched 4 December 1982 In service 9 July 1983 Identification Call sign: 15180 IMO number: 8104058 MMSI number: 503605000 Status Operational in service[7]

**MV *Queenscliff*** is the second of the four *Freshwater*-class ferries and entered service on 9 July 1983. It is named after [Queenscliff Beach](/source/Queenscliff%2C_New_South_Wales) on Sydney's Northern Beaches. It was to be retired, operating its final service on 13 October 2021.[16] However, on 13 June 2022 it was announced that *Queenscliff* would be brought back into service, after a refit, to replace *Collaroy* due to steering problems.[7] After belated completion of a previously routine five-yearly dry docking, the vessel reentered service on Monday 27 November 2023.[17]

		- Under construction in Newcastle circa 1983

		- First day of service, 9 July 1983

		- *Queenscliff* passing South Head, May 2020

		- *Queenscliff* being returned to service on 27 November 2023. Transport Minister Jo Haylen is seen at a press conference before the vessel embarks on its first service since its retirement in 2021.

### *Narrabeen*

Narrabeen in 2026 after its refurbishment in 2025. Namesake Narrabeen Beach Cost $8.9 million[1] Launched 26 May 1984 In service 1984 Identification Call sign: VJ7445 IMO number: 8310619 MMSI number: 503604000 Status Operational in service

**MV *Narrabeen*** is the third of the four *Freshwater*-class ferries to enter service. It is named after [Narrabeen Beach](/source/Narrabeen) on Sydney's Northern Beaches. Planned to be retired in 2021, on 9 December it was announced that *Narrabeen* would get a new engine and continue in service.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*] However, after much delay it was announced that the engine rebuild was cancelled due to supply chain issues and expense and the vessel was officially retired. Nevertheless, after the [2023 New South Wales state election](/source/2023_New_South_Wales_state_election) new Transport Minister Jo Haylen announced the return of *Narrabeen*. Following a refit, including a rebuild of the engines and a new control system,[18] she returned to service on 20 October 2025.[8]

This is the third Manly ferry to be called "Narrabeen". [*Narrabeen*](/source/Narrabeen_(1886_ferry)) (I) was an 1886-built iron paddle-steamer that was hulked in 1917. *Narrabeen* (II) was built in 1921 and was the last of the Manly cargo ferries. She was sold out of the Manly run in 1928 and was wrecked in 1958.

		- *Narrabeen* during fitting out in 1984

		- *Narrabeen* at [Circular Quay](/source/Circular_Quay) in 2011

		- *Narrabeen* in Manly in 1990

		- *Narrabeen* berthed next to *Queenscliff* at Balmain shipyard after the two vessels were taken out of service in 2021

		- Narrabeen in Circular Quay after its refit in 2025

### *Collaroy*

Collaroy in 2022 Namesake Collaroy Beach Cost $12 million[1] Launched 16 April 1988 In service 21 August 1988 Identification Call sign: VKN6270 IMO number: 8618281 MMSI number: 503607000 Status Retired 27 September 2023

**MV *Collaroy*** is the final *Freshwater*-class ferry to enter service. It is named after [Collaroy Beach](/source/Collaroy%2C_New_South_Wales) on Sydney's Northern Beaches.

*Collaroy* differs from her classmates in being equipped with underwater stabilisers, enhanced radar for use on ocean cruises, a reversed funnel, a "Becker" style rudder, different wheelhouse windows, and thicker hull plating, which altogether makes her the heaviest of the Freshwater-class ferries.[19] The control systems were upgraded to match that being fitted during overhauls of the other Freshwater class. *Collaroy* was also fitted with outdoor seating areas at each end of the upper deck, which at the time was unique to her. After this outdoor seating proved popular with passengers, it was installed in the other three Freshwaters in the early 2000s.

When Sydney hosted the [2000 Summer Olympics](/source/2000_Summer_Olympics), *Collaroy* was the vessel used to carry the [Olympic Flame](/source/Olympic_Flame) across [Sydney Harbour](/source/Port_Jackson). In February 2001, *Collaroy* ran aground on Manly Point, putting the ferry out of service for several months and costing $2 million to repair.[12] *Collaroy* was originally meant to be retained along with *Freshwater*, operating on weekends and public holidays; however on 13 June 2022 it was announced that *Collaroy* would be retired and replaced with the previously retired *Queenscliff* after the latter had undergone a refit.[7] It was announced that *Collaroy* might not return to service with her sisters, due to difficulty obtaining parts for her. She was retired on 27 September 2023, with her future uncertain. The vessel's future remained unknown until late 2024, when Haylen announced that *Collaroy* would not return to service and that the government would soon be inviting suggestions for future use of the vessel.[9] In January 2026 it was announced that *Collaroy* would be scrapped due to "insufficient viable interest" in repurposing it.[10]

		- *Collaroy* under construction at [Carrington Slipways](/source/Forgacs_Shipyard)

		- *Collaroy* docked at the [Overseas Passenger Terminal](/source/Overseas_Passenger_Terminal) in 1991

		- *Collaroy* aground near Kilburn Towers in Manly 2001

		- *Collaroy* in 2008

## See also

- [List of Sydney Harbour ferries](/source/List_of_Sydney_Harbour_ferries)

- [Timeline of Sydney Harbour ferries](/source/Timeline_of_Sydney_Harbour_ferries)

## References

Wikimedia Commons has media related to [Freshwater ferry class](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Freshwater_ferry_class).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Mead_1-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Mead_1-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-Mead_1-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-Mead_1-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-Mead_1-4) [***f***](#cite_ref-Mead_1-5) [***g***](#cite_ref-Mead_1-6) Mead, Tom (1994). *Manly Ferries of Sydney Harbour: The Seven Mile Ships*. Sydney: Dolphin Books. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [9780909089122](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9780909089122).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-BCA_2-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-BCA_2-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-BCA_2-2) Burness Corlett Australia Pty. Ltd. (July 1975). *Manly-Circular Quay Ferry Service - Type Optimisation and Preliminary Design Study for Public Transport Commission of N.S.W*. Cremorne, NSW.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-3)** Urban Transport Authority of New South Wales. *Annual Report: 1980-81*.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-4)** O'Sullivan, Matt; Rabe, Tom (27 November 2020). ["'Compromise position': Minister saves one Manly ferry, offers to sink another"](https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/compromise-position-minister-saves-one-manly-ferry-offers-to-sink-another-20201127-p56ii9.html). *[The Sydney Morning Herald](/source/The_Sydney_Morning_Herald)*. Retrieved 20 January 2026.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-5)** O'Sullivan, Matt (7 October 2021). ["End of an era: Last sailing set for Manly ferry"](https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/end-of-an-era-last-sailing-set-for-manly-ferry-20211007-p58y0b.html). *The Sydney Morning Herald*. Retrieved 20 January 2026.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-6)** ["Sydney to retain second Freshwater ferry"](https://web.archive.org/web/20210121070155/https://www.youngwitness.com.au/story/7086948/sydney-to-retain-second-freshwater-ferry/). *[The Young Witness](/source/The_Young_Witness)*. 15 January 2021. Archived from [the original](https://www.youngwitness.com.au/story/7086948/sydney-to-retain-second-freshwater-ferry/) on 21 January 2021.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-O'Sullivan_7-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-O'Sullivan_7-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-O'Sullivan_7-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-O'Sullivan_7-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-O'Sullivan_7-4) O'Sullivan, Matt (13 June 2022). ["Steering dramas force government to recommission retired Manly ferry"](https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/steering-dramas-force-government-to-recommission-retired-manly-ferry-20220609-p5asm6.html). *[The Sydney Morning Herald](/source/The_Sydney_Morning_Herald)*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230212213811/https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/steering-dramas-force-government-to-recommission-retired-manly-ferry-20220609-p5asm6.html) from the original on 12 February 2023.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Ruffles_8-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Ruffles_8-1) Ruffles, Michael; O'Sullivan, Matt (20 October 2025). ["They were meant to be out of service. Now large Manly ferries arrive in greater numbers"](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/they-were-meant-to-be-out-of-service-now-large-manly-ferries-arrive-in-greater-numbers-20251019-p5n3ij.html). *The Sydney Morning Herald*. Retrieved 20 October 2025.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Electric_9-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Electric_9-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-Electric_9-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-Electric_9-3) [Minister for Transport](/source/Minister_for_Transport_(New_South_Wales)) (24 September 2024). ["Next Generation Freshwater vessels to take to popular F1 Manly Ferry route"](https://www.nsw.gov.au/media-releases/next-generation-freshwater-vessels-to-take-to-popular-f1-manly-ferry-route). [NSW Government](/source/NSW_Government). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240924110424/https://www.nsw.gov.au/media-releases/next-generation-freshwater-vessels-to-take-to-popular-f1-manly-ferry-route) from the original on 24 September 2024.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Manlyscrap_10-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Manlyscrap_10-1) O'Sullivan, Matt (14 January 2026). ["Large Manly ferry and last of RiverCats to be turned into scrap metal"](https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/large-manly-ferry-and-last-of-rivercats-to-be-turned-into-scrap-metal-20260112-p5ntc1.html). *The Sydney Morning Herald*. Retrieved 14 January 2026.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-11)** Office of Transport Safety Investigations (20 October 2006). [*Ferry Safety Investigation Report: Systemic Investigation Into Incidents of Collision Involving Freshwater Class Vessels Operated by Sydney Ferries Corporation*](https://web.archive.org/web/20180314004832/http://www.otsi.nsw.gov.au/ferry/IR-Freshwater-class-final.pdf) (PDF). Archived from [the original](http://www.otsi.nsw.gov.au/ferry/IR-Freshwater-class-final.pdf) (PDF) on 14 March 2018.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Manly_Daily_12-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Manly_Daily_12-1) Morcombe, John (11 March 2017). ["Captain forced to ground vessel at Chowder Bay to avoid sinking after collision with collier"](https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/manly-daily/captain-forced-to-ground-vessel-at-chowder-bay-to-avoid-sinking-after-collision-with-collier/news-story/11c2e4960d6d01ce24ccf34cb33298c5). *[Manly Daily](/source/Manly_Daily)*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170311161728/http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/manly-daily/captain-forced-to-ground-vessel-at-chowder-bay-to-avoid-sinking-after-collision-with-collier/news-story/11c2e4960d6d01ce24ccf34cb33298c5) from the original on 11 March 2017. Retrieved 10 November 2019.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-13)** ["Ferry hijacker was depressed, court told"](http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/122470606). *[The Canberra Times](/source/The_Canberra_Times)*. 2 April 1985. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160803041206/http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/122470606) from the original on 3 August 2016.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-14)** ["Man charged over 'hijack' of ferry"](https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1300&dat=19850401&id=ZnRVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=0ZUDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6465,161336&hl=en). *The Age*. 1 April 1985. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230405011919/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1300&dat=19850401&id=ZnRVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=0ZUDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6465,161336&hl=en) from the original on 5 April 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-15)** ["Happy homecoming for Kiwi Australia drove to drink"](http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/122420024). *The Canberra Times*. 10 January 1986. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160822140744/http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/122420024) from the original on 22 August 2016.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-16)** ["First Freshwater class Manly ferry retired"](https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/sydney-breakfast/queenscliff/13583304). *[ABC Radio Sydney](/source/ABC_Radio_Sydney)*. 13 October 2021. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20211020211718/https://www.abc.net.au/radio/sydney/programs/breakfast/queenscliff/13583304) from the original on 20 October 2021.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-17)** Minister for Regional Transport and Roads (27 November 2023). ["Summer-ready Queenscliff returns to the harbour"](https://www.nsw.gov.au/media-releases/summer-ready-queenscliff-returns-to-harbour). [NSW Government](/source/Government_of_New_South_Wales). Retrieved 21 January 2026.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-18)** O'Sullivan, Matt (23 May 2025). ["'Like a Kinder Surprise': Manly ferry dishes up the unexpected"](https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/like-a-kinder-surprise-manly-ferry-dishes-up-the-unexpected-20250423-p5ltn2.html). *The Sydney Morning Herald*. Retrieved 23 May 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-19)** Lyon, Lance. ["Collaroy"](https://web.archive.org/web/20071103151751/http://www.ferriesofsydney.com/Collaroy.html). *Ferries of Sydney*. Archived from [the original](http://www.ferriesofsydney.com/Collaroy.html) on 3 November 2007.

v t e Ferries of Sydney Harbour Individual ferries Balgowlah Baragoola Barrenjoey Bellubera Binngarra Brightside Brighton Brothers Burra Bra Collaroy Curl Curl Dee Why Emu (II) Experiment Fairlight (1878) Freshwater Herald Kaikai Kalang Kaludah Kameruka Kamiri Kanangra Kanimbla Kara Kara Kareela Karingal Karrabee Kiandra Kirawa Kirrule Kookooburra Kooleen Koompartoo Kooroongaba Koree Kosciusko Kirribilli Kubu Kulgoa Kummulla Kuramia Kuranda Kurraba Kurrab-Ba Kuring-gai Kuttabul Lady Chelmsford Lady Cutler Lady Denman Lady Edeline Lady Ferguson Lady Scott Manly (II) Manly (III) Narrabeen (I) Narrabeen (III) North Head Phantom Queenscliff Rodney Rose Hill Packet Sophia Jane South Steyne Sydney 2000 Surprise Vaucluse Wallaby Ferry classes K class Dee Why class Hydrofoil Lady Freshwater class First Fleet JetCat RiverCat SuperCat Emerald River Parramatta River Ferry operators Kelsian Group Captain Cook Cruises Matilda Cruises Manly Fast Ferry Rosman Ferries Transdev Sydney Ferries Former ferry operators Australian National Line Port Jackson & Manly Steamship Company Public Transport Commission State Transit Authority Sydney Ferries Corporation Sydney Ferries Limited Sydney Harbour Transport Board Transit Systems Urban Transit Authority Miscellaneous List of Sydney Harbour ferries Timeline of Sydney Harbour ferries Greycliffe disaster Rodney disaster

v t e Ferries of Australia Individual ferries Abel Tasman Australian Trader Balgowlah Baragoola Barrenjoey Bellubera Binngarra Brightside Brighton Brothers Burra Bra Countess II Curl Curl Dee Why Emu (II) Devil Cat Experiment Empress of Australia Fairlight (1878) Georgette Herald Island Seaway Kaikai Kalang Kaludah Kameruka Kamiri Kanangra Kanimbla Kara Kara Karatta Kareela Karingal Karrabee Kiandra Kirawa Kirrule Kookooburra Kooleen Koompartoo Kooroongaba Koree Kosciusko Kirribilli Kubu Kulgoa Kummulla Kuramia Kuranda Kurraba Kurrab-Ba Kuring-gai Kuttabul Lady Cutler Lady Denman Lady Edeline Lady Ferguson Lady Scott Manly (II) Manly (III) Narrabeen (I) North Head Peninsula Princess Perth Phantom Phillip Pendal Princess II Princess of Tasmania Queenscliff (1992) Rodney Rose Hill Packet Sealion 2000 Shelley Taylor-Smith Sophia Jane Sorrento South Steyne Spirit of Kangaroo Island Spirit of Tasmania Spirit of Tasmania I Spirit of Tasmania II Spirit of Tasmania III Spirit of Tasmania IV Spirit of Tasmania V Sydney 2000 Surprise Sun Tricia Troubridge Vaucluse Wallaby Ferry classes Sydney Dee Why Sydney Emerald Sydney First Fleet Sydney Freshwater Sydney hydrofoil Sydney JetCat Sydney K-class Sydney Lady Sydney Parramatta River Sydney River Sydney RiverCat Sydney SuperCat Ferry operators Central Coast Ferries Kelsian Group Captain Cook Cruises Captain Cook Cruises (WA) Hopo Ferry Kangaroo Island SeaLink Matilda Cruises RiverCity Ferries Manly Fast Ferry Newcastle Transport Port Phillip Ferries Rosman Ferries Searoad Ferries Spirit of Tasmania Transdev Sydney Ferries Western Port Ferries Westgate Punt Former ferry operators Australian National Line Brisbane City Council Metropolitan Transport Trust Newcastle Buses & Ferries Port Jackson & Manly Steamship Company Public Transport Commission State Transit Authority Sydney Ferries Corporation Sydney Ferries Limited Sydney Harbour Transport Board Transdev Brisbane Ferries Transit Systems Urban Transit Authority Miscellaneous Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme List of Sydney Harbour ferries Timeline of Sydney Harbour ferries Greycliffe disaster Rodney disaster

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Freshwater-class ferry](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freshwater-class_ferry) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freshwater-class_ferry?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.