Help Save the Historic Steam Tug Portwey! ⚓️

Urgent Boiler & Mechanical Restoration Needed

The steam tug Portwey is one of the last surviving twin-screw, coal-fired steam tugs in the world—a truly unique piece of Britain’s maritime engineering heritage. Built in 1927, she has served harbors, shipyards, and communities for nearly a century. Today, she stands as a remarkable example of traditional steam power and the skilled craftsmanship that shaped our coastal history.

But now, Portwey urgently needs our help.

Her boiler—her beating heart—requires significant restoration work to remain safe and operational. Several mechanical systems also need a careful overhaul to keep her running for public visits, educational outreach, and heritage events. Without this essential work, Portwey faces a very real risk of being forced into long-term inactivity.

Our Goal:

To complete the critical boiler repairs and mechanical overhauls needed to bring Portwey back to life. Funds raised will go directly toward:

Boiler inspection, repair, and re-certification

⚙️ Mechanical refurbishment of pumps, engines, and auxiliary systems

️ Safety improvements for crew and visitors

Replacement of worn components and specialist engineering work

Why Portwey Matters:

Historic steam vessels like Portwey are incredibly rare. Restoring her means preserving not just a ship, but the legacy of the engineers, mariners, and communities who relied on steam power. When operational, Portwey offers an irreplaceable hands-on experience—steam engines turning, boilers roaring, and history alive beneath your feet.

For schools, museums, families, enthusiasts, and the public, she is a floating classroom and a living piece of history.

How You Can Help:

Donate—every pound truly makes a difference

Share this page with others passionate about heritage and preservation

Spread the word to maritime, engineering, and history groups

Your support will ensure Portwey can steam again—educating, inspiring, and honoring the generations who built and worked these magnificent vessels.

Thank you for helping keep our maritime history alive. ⚓️✨