Turbine-powered excusion steamers became popular on the Clyde sailing alongside paddle steamers and are included in this database as they are an integral part of the paddle steamer story on the Clyde. It is here where they found their first ever commercial application and retained their importance longest.

TS Queen Mary (1933, left) was possibly the finest of these vessels, the last to survive in operation, and still with us as a floating restaurant at London. Her story is particularly closely followed and her importance as the last remaining ship of her class in the UK and possibly worldwide is highlighted

Although steam turbines found great popularity in the 20th century until the marine diesel came to predominate, they were found mostly in warships, oil tankers, ocean liners and short sea ferries. With the exception of some remaining naval vessels, their time has almost come to an end and it is now looking likely that new SOLAS rules due for implementation in 2010 will see the final end of a glorious era of steam-powered travel for cruise ships.

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Foundation for Paddle Steamers Worldwide's associated site : The Clyde Turbine Steamer Foundation