Ryde

Paddle Steamer Resources by Tramscape

PS Ryde

PS Ryde, now known as Ryde Queen, was the last paddler on the Solent crossing from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight, from where she was withdrawn in 1969. She is now in poor condition and various attempts to negotiate a purchase her have failed. her condition is now making her a safety hazard, and it is likely that she will be scrapped. Her owners have indicated that her engines, which have been put up for sale, will be kept.


Nearing the end : PS Ryde in 2008	Photos kindly supplied by Jack Woodhams

Built in 1937 by Wm Denny & Bros at Dumbarton, Scotland
Engines : Triple expansion diagonal
Dimensions : 223 ft x 52 ft (overall)
566 Gross Registered Tonnes

Built for the Southern Railway's ferry service from Portsmouth on the south coast of England to Ryde on the Isle of Wight.
Operated a year-round service in the pre-World War II years
Replaced on the regular ferry service by motor vessels, Ryde became a relief and summer-only vessel
Withdrawn after the 1969 seasonin which she spent September 11-15th on charter at Tower Pier London offering short cruises
Moved to a mud berth at Binfield Marina, Isle of Wight and, as "Ryde Queen", used as the Marina clubhouse and latterly a discotheque
Damaged by fire in 1977 but repaired
Several changes of ownership meant that efforts to preserve the vessel and restore her have faltered
Vessel remains in a deteriorating condition at Binfield Marina
2008 : Paddle Steamer Ryde Trust established to take charge of renewed attempts to save the ship
2009 : Marina owners have gone into administration and vessel is likely to go up for auction

Four photos of Ryde in 1989 from the Tramscape collection by Gordon Stewart
See all 1989 photos

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Laid-up Paddle Steamers
British Paddle Steamer Index
Southern Railway / British Railways