Steel Tourist Vessel

58' Forward Wheelhouse Charter Vessel -

The Lonsdale is an entirely steel boat, purpose built in 1974 at Queenscliff, to be commissioned as a passenger service ferry from Queenscliff to Sorrento carrying up to 80 passengers per trip. In 1980 the owners, decided to retire and the vessel was sold and converted to a fishing vessel to workaround Port Phillip Bay, Bass Straight and Flinders Island.
In 1993 ownership changed again, this time to a Seafood Company in Darwin, to fish for Sea Cucumber. In November 1999 the Lonsdale was sold yet again and brought back to Lakes Entrance, where she was rebuilt from the waterline up. The refurbishments were completed in 2004 and the Lonsdale started working as a tourist boat, spotting the varied and interesting wildlife throughout the Gippsland Lakes.
The boat is powered by a Gardner 8LXB 8 cylinder diesel engine with approximately 3500 hours running time. The original Gardner was replaced with a fully rebuilt 8LXB in 2019. We also have the original engine (which needs a rebuild) that will be included as part of the sale.
The auxiliary motor is a Cummins 3 cylinder diesel powering a 31KVa generator. 12,500 hours since new (2007).
Twin disk gear box, original in great condition.
She holds an AMSA survey - !E survey (just coming into year 3). The Survey and safety equipment includes:
o Certificate of Operation
o Certificate of Survey - 1E for 49 + 2
o SMS - Safety Management System
o Fire Certificate
o Engine Room fire suppression system
o Diesel fire fighting pump
o Comprehensive bilge management system
o Lifejackets for 52 people
o Float off capacity (12 life rings)
o Radar, sonar, compass etc.

The boat is also available with a very lucritive lifestyle business " LONSDALE ECO TOURS " as a going concern. Call or email for more information.