LAUNCH OF THE STEAMER GOLDEN CROWN.

Auckland Star, Volume I, Issue 192, 20 August 1870, Page 2

LAUNCH OF THE STEAMER GOLDEN CROWN.

The launch of this fine steamer took place this morning, at 12 o'clock, from the yards of Messrs. Duthie and Ross, Smale'a Point. There was an unusually large number of persons present, and as the noble vessel glided into the •water, loud and prolonged cheers came forth from the assembled crowd. The Golden Crown i 3 the largest steamer that has been built in these waters, and is the property of the Auckland G-olden Crown .and Steam Navigation Company. She is to be fitted with engines of 140 horse power (nominal), from the foundry of James Thomson and Son, o^ G-lasgow ; everything connected with her machinery being on the most modern im" proved principle. Her model is good, having a fine entrance and a tolerably good run, the latter, perhaps, a little too full. The dimensions of the vessel are as follows : — Length of keel, 200 feet; depth of hold, 9 feet; beam, 22 feet 4 inches ; and length over all, 210 feet. She is fitted with a saloon which will be equal to any vessel on the Australian or New Zealand coasts; the fittings and cushions to be the same as those in the famous Cunard steamers. The Golden Crown will have a fine large hurricane-deck, and will be in every way suited to the requirements of the Thames passenger trade. It is calculated that she will steam sixteen knots, so that the passage to Q-rahainstown will be made in about •three hours. The steamer is now lying at anchor on the western side of the wharf, and in a few days will haul alongside the Argyleshire to take on board the machinery.