THE S.S. TASMAN.

Motueka Star, Volume IV, Issue 170, 7 April 1903, Page 5

THE S.S. TASMAN.

The latest addition to our coastal fleet of steamers, the Tasman arrived at the Motueka Wharf last Sunday afternoon. Her arrival was witnessed by a large number of residents, who, upon the berthing of the steamer, took the opportunity of inspecting her. The Tasman, owned by Mr J. C. Burford, ot Nelson, is a smartlooking vsssel, with plenty of deqk room and-abundance of room below. The fittings are of the very latest design, and everything that can lessen the worry of short sea journeys has been set for the convenience of passengers. The ladies have a saloon entrance of their own, an alleyway, and a pretty saloon ; the diningroom and gentleman's salcon is large, splendidly ventilated, and brilliantly lighted. There is absolutely no heat from the b Viler—a fault so irritating on most steamers—owing to asbestos being used for encasement purposes, and everywhere the beautiful fancy New Zealand woods are used as panelling. is used throughout, even in the holds. She is said to be the best steamer built in Auckland, and theie is no doubt she is one of the nattiest little vessels on the coast. The Tasman's tonnage is 187 tons gross, or 100 tons nett, and her principal measurements are : Length, 112 feet over all ; beam 21 ft ; depth, 7ft. The spacious cabin, situated aft, provides sleeping accommodation for eighteen persons, while amidships are state-rooms with provision for six others. The ladies' cabin has 12 nicely finished berths. The vessel possesses twin screws and is capable of developing a speed of 11 knots an hour. The Tasman proved herself a splendid sea boat, and although there were 170 tons of cargo on board, Irom Auckland to Wellington she registered 8J- knots —a good performance for this class of steamer. In her present trade she w ill carry 45 tons of cargo on a draught of 4ft Bin. The Tasman which left for Wellington at one o'clock yesterday is to trade regularly to this port.