CRUISE on Southampton’s heritage steamship and member of the National Historic Fleet SS Shieldhall as she sets out on her last cruises of the 2019 season this weekend.

On Saturday, between 4pm and 6pm, Shieldhall will set out on a Heritage Open Day cruise down Southampton Water, and will be in the best position to see the departure of three cruise ships, the Braemar, Independence of the Seas and Sapphire Princess. Expect much whistle tooting from Shieldhall, but will the cruise ships respond in kind?

A number of heritage organisations in Southampton will be opening their doors free of charge on Saturday for Heritage Open Day, including SS Shieldhall between 10am and 3pm. Access to the Mayflower Terminal for the Shieldhall during this time is via free vintage bus.

Shieldhall’s final trip of the year between 3pm and 6pm on Sunday sees her exploring the Southampton Docks and passing the Boat Show, which will be taking place on Mayflower Park and the water. On her return to berth, Shieldhall will pass the departing cruise ship Norwegian Spirit.

As part of both cruises, guests are invited to 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 the volunteer crew; listen to the informed commentary on the sights and sounds of Southampton and Southampton Water; walk the teak decks and relax in the saloon with a wide range of refreshments.

Children will have fun with an interactive Shieldhall Log Book, collecting stickers from various stations on board.