SILVER CLOUD II cruising along at moderate speed, note the expanse of foredeck.

Images(2)

Silver Cloud II

Vessel numberHV000025

Vessel Registration Number300 N

Builder Lars Halvorsen Sons Pty Ltd (1924 -)

Designer Lars Halvorsen Sons Pty Ltd (1924 -)

Date1968

DimensionsVessel Dimensions: 19.81 m x 18.59 m x 5.8 m x 12.19 m, 54.13 tonnes (65 ft. x 61 ft. x 19 ft. x 40 ft, 55 tons)
Registered Dimensions: 19.81 m x 5.76 m x 2.74 m, 55.09 tons x 80 tons x 75.38 tons (65 ft x 19 ft x 9 ft)

DescriptionSILVER CLOUD II was one of three similar luxury motor cruisers built by Lars Halvorsen Sons Ltd in the mid 1960s. It is double diagonal cold moulded, a strong method that they had used on many of their high speed craft built during the Second World War. It is powered by twin diesel engines and can almost reach a semi displacement planing speed.

SILVER CLOUD II was designed by Harold Halvorsen's son Harvey and this continued the tradition of the eldest son being the prinicpal designer in the firm. The craft could be described as a motor yacht to evoke the luxurious appointments of its interior and stately appearance. It was originally called KANAHOEE and then later KANAHOEE II. Its shape and styling reflect the trend of the time with a raked and flared bow, strong sheerline, a lower cabin top behind a big foredeck, and raised superstructure for the saloon, wheelhouse and flying bridge aft of midships.

During the 1980s the boat belonged to Alan Bond, and was used as a starting boat during trial races for the America's Cup challenger AUSTRALIA II. In 2006 SILVER CLOUD II was based back on Sydney Harbour and has undergone a significant restoration of the deck and interior. It is one of the flagships of the impressive fleet of vessels that carry the name Halvorsen.

SignificanceSILVER CLOUD II is wooden motor cruiser built in 1968. It is a more recent example of the continued evolution of the classic style of design from Lars Halvorsen Sons, the firm of boatbuilders that has been recognized for decades as one of Australia's premier builders. It is a design by the third generation of the Halvorsen family in Australia, Harvey Halvorsen, and is one the largest boats built by the firm.