PS Monarch

PS Monarch is one of the three active paddle steamers in the United Kingdom. Construction started in 1984 and it was launched in 1994, although the steam plant originated as a 19th-century tar pump from Caerphilly gas works.^[2] At only 42 feet long, 8 feet wide and with a capacity for only 12 passengers, she is the world's smallest commercial paddle steamer.^[3]

Berthed by The Quay Arts in Newport, Isle of Wight
History
United Kingdom
Name	PS Monarch
Port of registry	River Frome, Dorset
Route	River Frome, Dorset
Ordered	1984
Builder	Brian Waters together with Colin Carr at Mr Carr's boatyard Lemons at Rochester Kent.
Launched	1994
Acquired	2004
Maiden voyage	2004
In service	2004
Status	In service
General characteristics
Class and type	Paddle steamer
Tonnage	42
Length	42 feet[1]
Beam	15 feet at its widest[1]
Propulsion	Diagonal steam engine
Speed	6 knots
Capacity	12 passengers
Crew	1

The Monarch was designed and built by Brian Waters, who was a key volunteer in finally restoring the paddle steamer Kingswear Castle. It was a dream of his to construct his own paddle steamer from scratch. Construction was originally started in 1984, but it took him almost twenty years before she was finally finished, entering commercial service in 2003.

The PS Monarch was based at Island Harbour Marina on the Isle of Wight for three seasons from 2008 until 2010, offering excursions in the River Medina.

The vessel now operates from Wareham on the River Frome, Dorset. She is one of the smallest paddle steamers in UK.