SS South Steyne

The SS South Steyne is a mid-20th century steam ferry with Art Deco details such as veneered timber, brass fittings, and a marble bar throughout its interior. The vessel was designed to carry several hundred passengers at once across multiple decks with passenger lounges and seating areas.

The vessel was built in 1938 by Scottish shipbuilder Henry Robb and served as a steam ferry for Sydney Harbour crossings until 1974. It underwent regular maintenance and updates during its working life to remain safe and efficient.

The vessel became part of Sydney's daily life for generations, ferrying people between the city center and beaches as a symbol of harbour culture. People remember it as connected to leisure trips and the link between urban life and coastal escape.

The vessel is currently housed at Berrys Bay where ongoing maintenance work takes place and public visits are not possible at this time. It helps to check in advance whether viewing opportunities or guided visits through preservation groups might be available.

The ship comes from the same shipbuilder that constructed other famous ocean steamers of the early 20th century. Its steam-powered design makes it a rare example of this older technology still existing in its original form in this region.