Mystery Launch – 1953 Photo
Today’s woody story features one of the launches that were part of the welcome fleet for the SS Gothic. The Gothic was delivering her VIP cargo – Queen Elizebeth II to our shores.
The photo comes to us from the NZ Herald Heritage images via Lew Redwood.
Anyone able to ID the launch?
waitematawoodys.com #1 for classic wooden boat stories, info, advice & news - updated daily 
That was 1953 – if Royalist was 1956 then that cruiser shown must have been either Bellona or Black Prince. They were modified Didos – Dido had three 5.25 turrets on the fore deck.
LikeLike
I am on holiday at the moment but my grandparents boat Rehia was in that welcoming group of boats and at home I have a list of the boats present. I will email it when I get home
LikeLike
Bloody iPhone! I typed Raiona.
LikeLike
The launch between Seafearer(Seafever?) and Royalist looks like Ramona.
LikeLike
Navy vessel in the background is a Dido class light cruiser – The Royalist -commissioned into the RNZ Navy in 1956. I served on her in 1964.
David M.
LikeLike
The Navy Ship in the background is not the Gothic. Janet W
LikeLike
Rainbird in previous guise.
LikeLike
Fingers old launch from Milford?
LikeLike
She looks a lot like Seafearer
LikeLike
Looks very McGeady in its concept, but if so, can’t place it. — KEN R
LikeLike