Southampton’s heritage steamship SS Shieldhall has returned from her annual dry dock in Falmouth looking pristine and ship-shape ahead of her first 2025 sailing on Saturday 24 May.
Shieldhall’s high tech, electric blue silicone coating (more environmentally friendly than traditional anti-foul) initially applied in 2022, was re-applied in certain areas in Falmouth. The anti-foul has proved its worth with less marine life attaching itself to the hull, meaning Shieldhall is moving significantly quicker through the water. Other work conducted saw Shieldhall’s anchor chains calibrated and their shackle markings repainted, plus the removal of the ship’s port propeller for routine replacement of the stern tube seal.
Chairman Martin Phipps was delighted with the work undertaken in Falmouth: ‘It’s very re-assuring to know that an MCA inspection has confirmed that Shieldhall is in excellent condition and ready to welcome guests on board. Our volunteers are now looking forward to our trips along Southampton Water, into the Solent and further afield commencing in under three weeks time. This year marks Shieldhall’s 70th year afloat, and we have an exciting programme of cruises including anniversary sailings to meet the Waverley; a Jane Austen themed cruise; trips to watch the action in the Round the Island and Fastnet Races; plus performances from shanty bands and music groups. Although there is no Bournemouth Air Festival being staged this year, Shieldhall will still go for her ‘summer holidays’ in Poole, where she will sail to The Needles (9 August) and the Jurassic Coast (10 August). Our trips vary in length from 2hr cruises to all-day sailings, so hopefully something for everyone to enjoy. Shieldhall is listed as the ‘Number 1 thing to do in Southampton’ on Trip Advisor and we look forward to giving all our guests the ultimate steam experience.’
Shieldhall Chief Engineer Graham Martin observed: ‘People often ask why we need to go to dry dock every year and why we travel to Falmouth, over 320 nautical miles away. Given that the ship is over 15 years old, MCA rules state that Shieldhall must have an annual out-of-the-water inspection. Whilst there are dry docks in Portsmouth, these are currently not available to commercial shipping. We’re very thankful to the team at A&P Falmouth for looking after us so well, and for the first time we were able to take a private charter for guests in Falmouth Bay. This was a wonderful prelude to our 2025 sailing season.’
On all cruises, guests have the opportunity of visiting Shieldhall’s impressive Engine and Boiler Rooms; to meet the Captain on the Bridge; walk the teak decks and listen to an informed commentary on the sights and sounds of Southampton Water and the Solent. A wide range of refreshments is available on board. Free parking is available close to the Shieldhall berth in the Western Docks.
For more information on all the cruises mentioned, including details of prices and joining instructions, plus a full list of 2025 sailings, please visit www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk, or call 023 8155 0242.
