Ena up for auction
Australia's finest steam yacht will be auctioned on May 19Ena is the finest steam yacht in Australia and one of only three of her kind remaining in the world today. Unlike many other fine yachts of her era like the Lady Hoptoun, she is privately owned and currently used as a charter vessel in Melbourne.
However, on May 19, Ena will be auctioned with an expected price of around $1.5 million to $1.8 million.
Designed by Walter Reeks in 1900, this maritime masterpiece showcased Australia’s skill and craftsmanship to the world, and was the pride of maritime accomplishment.
As with most historic boats, she has a unique history that has seen her transformed many times. Undertaking war service as HMAS Sleuth in World War I, Ena was later adapted to become a commercial cargo and fishing vessel, and renamed Aurore.
She was still operating as a fishing boat in 1981 when she hit an unidentified object in the D'Entrecasteaux Channel and sank.
Ena was salvaged four months later and bought by Sydney businessman Pat Burke in partnership with stockbroker Rene Rivkin and solicitor David Baffsky. These three funded a no-expenses-spared restoration which was completed in 1986.
According to the auctioneer Paul Sumner: "The gleaming brass and gold which can be seen throughout the boat compliments the warm and radiant varnished timber, luxurious fabrics and finely appointed fixtures and fittings.
"The main saloon features a beautifully detailed inlayed timber table that is perfectly complimented by other period details and below deck the elegant ladies’ cabin boasts sumptuous seating, carved woodwork and etched glass murals, and the gentlemen’s saloon, day beds and a folding card table."
Primarily used to accommodate distinguished and discerning guests who sought to entertain in an luxurious and refined manner, Ena epitomises timeless Edwardian elegance and glamour.
Ena’s elegance in the water is still as alluring now as it was in 1900. Described by the world register of historical vessels as ‘flawless and without equal’, this 29.76m steam yacht is one of the world’s best.
The auction will take place at Mossgreen at 10.30am on Tuesday May 19, 2015.
For more information go to www.mossgreen.com.au
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