Steamship Shieldhall D-Day 80th themed cruise to Portsmouth Harbour

By the spring of 1944 southern England was fast becoming a huge armed camp, as men, vehicles, stores and ammunition moved to their marshalling areas. Portsmouth was the headquarters and main departure point for the military and naval units destined for Sword Beach on the Normandy coast.Many of the specialist ships and landing craft used on D-Day had been modified at Portsmouth Dockyard, whilst parts of the Mulberry Harbours (the artificial harbours that were used by the Allies for landing troops and supplies in Normandy) were built there. It was also an embarkation point for troops. HMS Vernon was the base for part of Force S – the naval force that landed 3rd British Division on Sword Beach – and for Motor Torpedo Boats, which on D-Day protected the flanks of the landings against enemy naval attack. This site is now Gunwharf Quays shopping centre.Our D-Day 80 cruise will pass into Portsmouth Harbour, home to the Royal Navy - an exciting opportunity to view Britain’s naval vessels and the dramatic skyline of Portsmouth, including Southsea; Clarence pier; Spice Island and the Spinnaker Tower, from the water. On our return to berth we can expect to see some cruise ships departing Southampton - always the chance to sound our whistle and play the ‘Shieldhall Organ’! Further details of the cruise will follow. During 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; walk the teak decks; relax in the Saloon with our wide range of refreshments including tea / coffee; real ale; a range of Titanic bottled beers; wine and hot and cold food, available on all trips. Courtesy parking available close to berth. Children will have fun with our interactive Shieldhall Log Book, collecting stickers from various stations on board!