SILENS – A PEEK DOWN BELOW

The 38’ launch – Silens was built / launched in 1912 by Harvey & Lang (photos below).

Built from kauri planks and carvel construction. Beam is just shy of 9′ and she draws 3’.

Powered by a 85hp Ford diesel engine that gives her a top speed of 10 knots. The forward propulsion is supplemented by a small battened main and jib – Silens is one of the few woody launches that actually looks all good under sail.

Over the years I have been on Silens many times but oddly for me I have never shared photos of her impressive interior, today we get to see what a well designed and crafted classic launch Silens is.

UPDATE FEB 2026 – at anchor in Algies Bay. Photo ex Angus Rogers