Steamship Shieldhall Steam to the Solent, A Celebration of Steam, marking RAIL200

Rail 200 is the nationwide celebration marking 200 years since the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825. We’ll be looking back at the railway arriving in Southampton – and the earlier introduction, in 1820, of the first steam packet between Southampton and the Isle of Wight, The Prince of Cobourg, which began the first of her three-times daily voyages on Southampton Water. Join us on the Shieldhall with displays and entertainment to mark the occasion! On our journey we will pass the cruise ships Iona, MSC Virtuosa, Sky Princess and Ventura in berth, and on our return see a number of the ships depart - always the chance to sound our 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; 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.Children will have fun with our interactive Shieldhall Log Book, collecting stickers from various stations on board!