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
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.
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.
Forthcoming Events
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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.
