Wangi Queen Showboat operates scenic cruises and ferry tours throughout the beautiful Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park aboard the iconic Wangi Queen — a charming heritage ferry that offers guests a rare glimpse into Australia’s early shipbuilding history.
Originally built in 1922, Wangi Queen combines old-world charm with relaxed modern cruising, creating a unique experience on the water for visitors of all ages. Our cruises explore the stunning waterways, islands and sheltered coves of Port Stephens, where guests can enjoy beautiful scenery, abundant birdlife, dolphins often spotted along the way, and the peaceful atmosphere of the western harbour.
Whether you’re passionate about maritime history, looking for a relaxing day on the water, or celebrating a special occasion with family and friends, Wangi Queen offers a warm and memorable experience with friendly local hospitality at its heart.
Wangi Queen Showboat
Launched in 1922 at Empire Bay, NSW
Our Story
Directors Shane Herrmann and Teresa Charchalis bring more than 25 years of experience operating vessels throughout Sydney and Port Stephens.
In the early 2000s, Shane and Teresa operated their own boutique water taxi service from Manly aboard the 8-metre Scarab Sea Change, transporting guests to destinations including Watsons Bay, Rose Bay, Darling Harbour and Sydney Harbour hotels, while also conducting twilight cruises and wedding transfers.
Co-owners & Operator
Shane Herrmann & Teresa Charchalis
Their lifelong passion for classic timber vessels later saw them join Sydney Tall Ships, working aboard iconic vessels including Søren Larsen, Southern Swan and Coral Trekker. During this period, Sydney Tall Ships acquired Wangi Queen and relocated the vessel from Lake Macquarie to Sydney Harbour.
Shane served as Master aboard Wangi Queen, operating the popular “Convicts, Castles & Champagne” cruises from historic Campbells Cove through Sydney Harbour. Teresa worked aboard the tall ships as an onboard photographer, photographing guests from the midship crow’s nest during the tall ship mast climbs.
From the midship mast of tallship Soren Larsen, 2011. Photo by Teresa Charchalis
From 2014 to 2018, Shane and Teresa operated luxury harbour experiences aboard the motor vessels MV Ambience and MV Calypso, showcasing the beauty of Sydney Harbour to international visitors with private charters and relaxed on-water dining experiences.
In 2018, they became the certified operators of the Port Stephens Ferry Service, running daily passenger ferry services between Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens. Over the following four and a half years, they invested extensively in restoring and improving the vessels and operations, re-establishing a reliable and much-loved local ferry service for residents and visitors alike.
Aboard Coral Trekker for the 2013 Royal Australian Navy International Fleet Review
Today, Shane, Teresa and their experienced local crew are proud to continue Wangi Queen’s remarkable story in Port Stephens, sharing their passion for maritime heritage, history and the natural beauty of the region with guests from all over Australia and beyond.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard soon.
Two Queens! Queen Mary 2 and Wangi Queen @ Campbells Cove, The Rocks, Sydney 2013. Photo by Shane Herrmann.
Shane Herrmann at the helm of MV Ambience, Sydney 2015