Event: Full Steam Ahead - Back into Service this Season

Join us as we explore the challenges of returning to operation in 2021 and how to create a COVID-safe environment for the upcoming season.  This event is applicable for static vessels open to the public and those aiming to get back into operation at a later stage, as well as those who will be passenger carrying this season.

About this Event

SS Shieldhall and National Historic Ships UK are hosting an online event and information exchange aimed at operating passenger-carrying historic vessels.  We will explore the challenges of returning to operation in 2021, at a time when COVID 19 remains a crucial concern and learn from the experience of those who successfully operated in a COVID-safe manner last summer.

How can we keep our passengers and crew safe without compromising the experience? How can we build confidence so people feel comfortable enough to book?  How do we deal with COVID-related cancellations?

• Co-chaired by John Rose, Chairman of SS Shieldhall and Hannah Cunliffe, Director of National Historic Ships UK
   
• Mid Hants Railway’s Operations Manager, Richard Bentley, will tell us how the Watercress line was able to deliver safe, high-quality passenger experiences during 2020 and the lessons learnt from this.
   
• John Megoran, Chairman of the Kingswear Castle Trust, will talk about the experience of bringing passengers on board a historic vessel during 2020.
   
• Phil Stephens, Chief Operating Officer, SS Shieldhall, will share the challenges they are currently grappling with and the decisions being made as they prepare their 2021 programme of sailing excursions

The event will include a forum for wider discussion of points that arise from the talks and shared issues and concerns.

We will also gauge interest in a follow-up session to be held in Autumn 2021 to review the season and highlight any continued issues going into 2022.  All passenger-carrying historic vessels have similar interests and challenges and, through these events, we hope to create networking opportunities allowing operators to know one another better, share information, seek advice and learn from each other.

This event is free and takes place on Monday 12th April at 7.00pm BST.  It is open to the owners and custodians of historic passenger vessels, and also the wider public. 

Register