The iconic SS Shieldhall, a venerable historic steamship, is set to embark on a series of commemorative summer sailings from Poole Quay, celebrating its remarkable 70th anniversary.
These eagerly anticipated voyages will offer passengers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the breathtaking Jurassic Coast, extending its reach towards the stunning St Aldhelm’s Head, promising picturesque vistas and a unique perspective of Dorset’s celebrated coastline. Adding to the onboard experience, the renowned Dorset Mutineers will provide spirited shanty entertainment on the return journey, ensuring a lively and memorable trip for all.
Chairman Martin Phipps expressed immense enthusiasm for the confirmed summer holiday programme, particularly highlighting the arrangements for Poole 2025. “We’re delighted to have confirmed our summer holiday programme, including our arrangements for Poole 2025,” Phipps stated, underlining the significance of this milestone year. He added, “This year marks Shieldhall’s 70th anniversary, and it’s wonderful that she can once again grace Poole Quay and take guests out to explore our historic southern waters.”
The comprehensive Poole programme for 2025 is meticulously designed to offer diverse experiences, including a special one-way trip to Poole from Southampton scheduled for Friday, August 8. This particular sailing will feature the vibrant performances of the Shieldhall Stompers Jazz Band, further enhancing the festive atmosphere aboard the historic vessel, making it a truly unique Dorset travel event.
A distinctive feature of all Shieldhall sailings is the encouragement for guests to delve into the ship’s operational heart. Visitors are invited to explore the meticulously maintained engine room, observe the intricate workings from the bridge, and marvel at the classic steam-assisted steering gear, providing an intimate glimpse into the engineering marvel that is this SS Shieldhall.
The SS Shieldhall stands as a living testament to Britain’s rich maritime heritage, offering a tangible connection to the golden age of steam. Her continued operation and preservation underscore the importance of celebrating and maintaining such historic steamship icons for future generations, allowing them to experience the grandeur of ocean travel from a bygone era.
These summer excursions from Poole Quay along the Jurassic Coast provide a unique blend of leisure, education, and entertainment. They represent not just a journey through scenic waters but also a voyage through time, making the 70th anniversary sailings an unmissable event for history buffs, maritime enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an extraordinary summer excursion experience.
Tickets for these historic voyages are readily available and can be conveniently purchased through the dedicated Steamship Shieldhall website, or by contacting the ticket manager directly at 023 8155 0242. Early booking is highly recommended to secure a place on these popular historic steamship celebrations.
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