Details
Construction
Dimensions
History
Built in 1901 by Cawstons of Reading, ECLIPSE is a steam launch of teak on oak frames with a mahogany saloon. Her current engine is a steam compound built by Ian MacDougall in 1984. She was originally used as a hire launch for Cawstons' own fleet, then was used as a ferry boat between Hampton and Kingston until 1960 and subsequently as a motor tripper at Kingston.
She changed hands in 1978 and was completely restored between 1980 and 1984. Her current owners bought her in 1994 and she is now available for charter, based at Hampton Court.
Key dates
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1901
Built by Cawstons of Caversham, Reading as a Steam Passenger Launch for Cawstons own Hire Fleet to carry 60 passengers
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1901-1960
Used as a Ferry Boat between Hampton and Kingston on the River Thames
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1960s
Used as a Motor Tripping Launch at Kingston-upon-Thames
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1978
Acquired and entirely rebuilt with the steam plant fitted by Ian Macdougal
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1980-1984
Restoration
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1984
New steam plant installed
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1994
Acquired by present owner
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1997
Boiler retubed
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2015
Vessel is thought to be in good condition and still operating as a Luxury Steam Launch to carry 12 passengers running trips on the River Thames
Sources
Steamboat Register: An illustrated Register of surviving steam vessels in the British Isles, Edition 6, May 1994
Own this vessel?
If you are the owner of this vessel and would like to provide more details or updated information, please contact info@nationalhistoricships.org.uk
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