PS Monarch is one of the three active paddle steamers in the United Kingdom. Construction started in 1984 and it was launched in 1994, although the steam plant originated as a 19th-century tar pump from Caerphilly gas works.[2] At only 42 feet long, 8 feet wide and with a capacity for only 12 passengers, she is the world's smallest commercial paddle steamer.[3]

History
United Kingdom
NamePS Monarch
Port of registryRiver Frome, Dorset
RouteRiver Frome, Dorset
Ordered1984
BuilderBrian Waters together with Colin Carr at Mr Carr's boatyard Lemons at Rochester Kent.
Launched1994
Acquired2004
Maiden voyage2004
In service2004
StatusIn service
General characteristics
Class and typePaddle steamer
Tonnage42
Length42 feet[1]
Beam15 feet at its widest[1]
PropulsionDiagonal steam engine
Speed6 knots
Capacity12 passengers
Crew1

The Monarch was designed and built by Brian Waters, who was a key volunteer in finally restoring the paddle steamer Kingswear Castle. It was a dream of his to construct his own paddle steamer from scratch. Construction was originally started in 1984, but it took him almost twenty years before she was finally finished, entering commercial service in 2003.

The PS Monarch was based at Island Harbour Marina on the Isle of Wight for three seasons from 2008 until 2010, offering excursions in the River Medina.

The vessel now operates from Wareham on the River Frome, Dorset. She is one of the smallest paddle steamers in UK.


References

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  1. ^ a b 'Smallest paddle steamer in UK' not sold at auction, BBC, 29 August 2010
  2. ^ "Paddle Steamer Monarch website". Paddle Steamer Monarch. Retrieved 30 August 2015.
  3. ^ Andrew Gladwell (3 April 2014), A History of British Paddle Steamers Hardcover, Ian Allan, ISBN 978-0711037427
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