The Wessex & Dart Branch is proud to represent the area where the Society was originally founded in 1959. It was while sailing on PS Freshwater between Lymington and Yarmouth that Professor Alan Robinson conceived the idea of the PSPS. We welcome PS Waverley to our area each September. In 2013 we encompassed the River Dart into our area in recognition of the paddle steamer Kingswear Castle being returned to her home waters after a number of years away. The branch organises a series of outings each summer and also a programme of winter meetings between each October and April which are shared between Bournemouth, Southampton, East Cowes and Dartmouth. These are open to members and non members alike and all are assured of a warm welcome.
Join the PSPS today and enjoy the many benefits of the Society by clicking here. If you have any questions about the Wessex & Dart Branch please feel free to contact the Branch Secretary below.
- Contact the Branch by post: c/o Flat 2, Grosvenor House, 3 Grosvenor Road, Bournemouth, BH4 8BQ
- Contact the Wessex & Dart Branch
Latest News
Statement from Waverley Steam Navigation Co Ltd.
A statement issued on behalf of 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.
2018 National AGM – Draft minutes published
The minutes of the meeting, which was held in York on 24 November 2018, have now been published.
Delta Queen Exemption Reinstated
The stern wheeler Delta Queen is set to return to service after an exemption renewal.
Lake Geneva Update
Vevey remains in service offering trips on Fridays and Sundays into December.
2018 PSPS AGM – Saturday 17th November
The 2018 AGM takes place on Saturday 17th November.
Stadt Luzern De-stored
On Monday 29th October Stadt Luzern's outgoing Captain Kuno Stein and her new master Roger Maurer spent the day clearing the ship's bridge and office.
Dresden Update
There is now a sufficient rise of water level on the Elbe at Dresden for the paddlers to sail in Saxon Switzerland today.
Stadt Luzern’s Last day 21st October
Capt Kuno Stein welcomes passengers aboard Stadt Luzern at Fluelen on his last sailing as a paddle steamer captain and Stadt Luzern's last trip before a major rebuild.
Low Water at Dresden
Low river water levels on the Elbe at Dresden continue to cause havoc with the timetables for the paddle steamers there.
PSPS 2019 Calendar on Sale Now
The PSPS 2019 Calendar is on sale now.
Stadt Luzern Update
If you want a last trip on Stadt Luzern before she is withdrawn, you'll have to get your skates on.
Paddle Wheels Magazine – Latest Issue Published
The latest 'Paddle Wheels' magazine is available to all new PSPS members - join today!...
Wingfield Castle Update
Hartlepool Borough Council launch a new conservation plan for Wingfield Castle.
PSPS Supports Maid of the Loch
A statement from Paul Semple, PSPS National Chairman, on Maid of the Loch.
Forthcoming Events
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Wessex & Dart BranchBranch AGM followed by “If only it could speak”The Holiday InnSouthamptonYour chance to question the Branch Committee followed by Richard Clammer's talk on the bell of the Paddle Steamer Prince and its eminent Victorian connections.
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Wessex & Dart Branch“Paddle Steamer Recollections” – Brian JacksonThe SuncliffBournemouthA talk by Brian Jackson.
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Wessex & Dart Branch“Solent Seaways – Railway owned and other Solent Steamers” – John HendyEast Cowes Town HallIsle of WightA talk by John Hendy.
