A registered charity founded in 1959, we have about 2,500 members and through our associated charitable companies we operate the only two working paddle steamers in Great Britain; PS Waverley and PS Kingswear Castle.
The Society also supports other paddle steamer projects including PS Maid of the Loch and PS Medway Queen.
Without the PSPS there would no longer be the opportunity to sail on a Paddle Steamer in Great Britain.
Our aims are:
- to preserve paddle steamers in sailing condition;
- to educate the public in the historic significance of paddle steamers in the Nation's maritime and industrial heritage;
- to acquire, preserve and exhibit a collection of equipment and material associated with paddle steamers.
We have five branches covering all of Great Britain. Each branch organises regular talks, social and special events throughout the year. Please click on a branch below for more information.
- Bristol Channel Branch
- London & Home Counties Branch
- North of England & North Wales Branch
- Scottish Branch
- Wessex & Dart Branch
Charity no. 298328
Charity no. SC037603
PSPS Collection
The PSPS collection continues to expand with over 50,000 items. The Society holds the largest collection of materials related to Paddle Steamers including postcards, sailing bills, books, souvenirs and fittings from much loved steamers of the past. We welcome further donations to enhance our collection. Please contact the Society's Archive Trustee in the first instance.
A small selection of Waverley promotional material held in the PSPS Collection.
Latest National News
National Historic Ships UK Meets MCA
Press release issued following a meeting between National Historic Ships UK and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
PS Blumilsalp in New Dry Dock
The Paddle Steamer Blumilsalp made her first visit to the new dry-dock facility at Thun in January.
Bill Hedges Obituary
Sorry to have to report the death of long term Kingswear Castle supporter Bill Hedges.
MCA Consultation
The MCA has just completed a consultation about removing "grandfather rights" from existing passenger vessels.
Society seeks new Independent Examiner
The Council of Management has decided that it is time that we should change our Independent Examiner.
Changes at the Top
The PSPS Chairman will step down to take up the position of General Manager of Waverley Excursions Ltd.
The Bell that Crossed the Pond Twice
The story of how the PSPS acquired and reunited the bell from PS Jeanie Deans with the Clyde after a 55-year absence.
Kingswear Castle 2019 Timetable published
The Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company has published the Paddle Steamer's timetable for 2019. The season runs from 25 May to 30 September.
Statement Issued by Waverley Steam Navigation Co. Ltd.
A statement issued by Waverley Steam Navigation Co. Ltd.
£1 Million Funding for Maid of the Loch
The Scottish Government has confirmed £950,000 support for Maid of the Loch restoration.
Forthcoming National Events
- There are no events scheduled.
