Builder Henry Gilbert Launched 14 March 1831 | Type Paddle steamer Length 18 m | |
Surprise was the first paddle steamer, and the first steam powered vessel, built and run in Australia. It was built possibly on the Parramatta River, by shipbuilder Henry Gilbert, and launched in Sydney on 14 March 1831. Its first voyage was on 1 June on the Parramatta River. It was 58 feet long.
The first steamer to operate in Australian waters was Sophia Jane, built in England which arrived in 1831. It was having its paddles fitted when Surprise made its first voyage.
On 30 May, Surprize [sic] advertised a service to Parramatta. At that time ferry services were not advertised in Sydney. Sophia Jane advertised the first cruise on 13 June. From 8 August, Surprise published a timetable in the Sydney Herald.
Surprise was built to operate on the Parramatta River and later operated in Tasmanian waters. Its fate is not known.