Step back to Edwardian times, when the pleasures of the sea were best enjoyed from the polished deck of a classic motor launch.

Savour a relaxing journey and a delicious afternoon high tea as you take in the beauty of the Waitematā Harbour aboard heritage vessel Nautilus. With a maximum of just six guests, this intimate experience offers a rare opportunity to explore the water in style aboard a vintage vessel.

This event is part of the Auckland Heritage Festival, celebrating this year’s theme, Auckland at Play, and marking the 75th anniversary of the Empire Games.

titleCarousel slide 1 image

High Tea at Sea

Savour a relaxing journey and a delicious afternoon high tea aboard heritage vessel Nautilus.

About NAUTILUS 

Nautilus has had a colourful life, travelling the world, since first being launched as a family vessel used for picnics and racing in 1913. Since then she has run public excursions, ferry trips and charters and was involved in a rescue of a survivor from a yachting accident. Nautilus was one of two motorboats carried by the hospital ship Marama during WWI which commenced duties in the Mediterranean in 1915. 

Further research is being carried out on her use as a private vessel between the late 1920s and when she was acquired by Allan Williams in 1994. While in his ownership, Williams refit Nautilus with a new engine and enjoyed 17 years of family boating before donating her to the New Zealand Maritime Museum in 2011. 

Five years of labour have gone into the restoration by a team of passionate staff and volunteers, during which every plank and component has been carefully checked.

You might also like