Steamship Shieldhall: Steam to the Solent Cruise with the Romsey Shanty Crew

Join our team of volunteers as we commence our 2026 anniversary programme.

We’ll have the flags out for the occasion! We will also be joined onboard by the Romsey Shanty Crew, a friendly, inclusive community singing group led by musician Nick Tann.

They sing traditional sea shanties and songs from the sea, learned by ear and sung for the joy of shared voices.

The crew usually meet weekly to sing together rather than perform, making appearances like this a rare occasion.

Their performance will celebrate the maritime roots of the songs in a fitting and historic setting aboard the Shieldhall.Steam down Southampton Water to the Solent, passing cruise ships in berth, and on your return see the cruise ships Iona, Virtuosa, Sky Princess and Ventura depart – always the chance to sound our whistle and play the ‘Shieldhall Organ’! As part of your cruise, see the impressive engine room with its original steam engines at work and the bridge, with its traditional instruments and gleaming brasswork; admire the ship’s steam assisted steering gear (similar to that used on Titanic); talk to the Captain and our volunteer crew; listen to the informed commentary on the sights and sounds of Southampton Water and The Solent; pass close to the great ocean liners and container ships; walk the teak decks; relax in the Saloon with a wide range of refreshments including tea / coffee; real ale; a range of bottled beers; wine and hot and cold food, including ice cream, available on all trips.Children will have fun with our interactive Shieldhall Log Book, collecting stickers from various stations on board!