no.5677

Steam Yacht Britannia

1907-1918

View of the Steam Yacht Britannia out on Windermere. Distinctive bow like a clipper ship, two masts, a single funnel and life belts along the rails. No superstructure, just benches on the deck with about thirty passengers and crew onboard. Steered with ship’s wheel at the stern. Flying white ensign because Furness Railway ignored the Admiralty saying they didn’t rule on inland waters. Launched in 1879 as a private yacht, bought by Furness Railway in 1907 for £550. Could be hired for an eight hour day for between five and ten guineas depending on the number of passengers. Not making any profit so was put up for sale in 1918. No offers so broken up for scrap.