PS Monarch on the River Frome, Wareham, Dorset

One of only three operational paddle steamers in the UK, Monarch is a 42 foot paddle steamer powered by a twin cylinder compound steam engine and an oil fired boiler. 
Started in 1984 the hull was launched in the 1990s, although the steam plant started life as a tar pump at the end of the 19th century in Caerphilly gas works. 


Top speed is about 6 Knots and she can carry 12 passengers. 


Monarch is also fitted with electrically operated bow and stern thrusters.