70th Anniversary of SS Shieldhall

Join Steamship Shieldhall for a rarely seen and wonderful sight on southern coastal waters on Saturday 13th September when two heritage steamships, both built in Scotland and today forming part of the National Historic Fleet, meet up with one another in the Solent.This special rendezvous is being arranged as the culmination of Shieldhall’s 70th anniversary year afloat, and is not to be missed! Shieldhall will steam down Southampton Water and head out to the Solent Forts, before meeting with Waverley in the Solent, and heading west in tandem with the Waverley towards Cowes. Expect lots of whistle tooting as the two ships salute one another in time-honoured style! During our voyage we will pass the cruise ships Celebrity Apex, Iona, MSC Virtuosa and Sky Princess – more opportunities to sound the whistle and play the ‘Shieldhall Organ’!As part of your cruise, see the impressive engine room with its original steam engines at work and the bridge, with its traditional instruments and gleaming brasswork; admire the ship’s steam assisted steering gear (similar to that used on Titanic); talk to the Captain and our volunteer crew; listen to an informed commentary on the sights and sounds of Southampton Water and the Solent; pass close to the great ocean liners and container ships (we may also expect some other historic ships to join us!); walk the teak decks; relax in the Saloon with our wide range of refreshments including tea / coffee; a range of bottled beers; wine and hot and cold food, including ice cream, available on all trips. Courtesy parking is available close to the berth.