Cruise to Portsmouth Harbour on SS Shieldhall
Overview
Join Solent Spice for a return cruise from Southampton to Portsmouth on SS Shieldhall to recognise the important 85th anniversary of Dunkirk and the role played by Southampton and Portsmouth in ‘Operation Dynamo’, and also the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ Day and the celebrations that took place in the two ports and nationally.
We will pass into Portsmouth Harbour, home to the Royal Navy – an exciting opportunity to view Britain’s naval vessels and the dramatic skyline of Portsmouth, including Southsea; Clarence Pier; Spice Island and the Spinnaker Tower, from the water. On our return to berth we can expect to see the cruise ships Arvia and Celebrity Apex departing Southampton – always the chance to hear the ‘Shieldhall Organ’.
Living history re-enactors joining the Cruise on the 25 May 2025 will add to the experience of Celebration and Reflection on the historic 80th Anniversaries of VE / VJ Day and Dunkirk 85.
Authentic and respectful portrayals representing Service personnel and civilians of Britain’s WW2 generation, is matched by the reenactor’s knowledge of the subject and dedication to keeping alive the memory and spirit of that era. Please do feel free to ask questions of the team members, and they will be happy to pose for your souvenir photographs as well.
The Shieldhall Padre, The Reverend Dennis Mould, will also be present to conduct a short service and wreath laying, to which all are welcome to attend.
As part of your cruise, 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 our volunteer crew; listen to the informed commentary on the sights and sounds of Southampton Water and The Solent; pass close to the great ocean liners and container ships; walk the teak decks; relax in the Saloon with a wide range of refreshments including tea / coffee; real ale; a range of bottled beers; wine and hot and cold food, including ice cream, available to purchase.
Includes
- Return Cruise from Southampton to Portsmouth Harbour to commemorate the 85th Anniversary of Dunkirk
- Living history re-enactors onboard SS Shieldhall
- Tour the SS Shieldhall
- Talk to the Captain and the volunteer crew; listen to the informed commentary on the sights and sounds of Southampton Water and The Solent
- Pass close to the great ocean liners and container ships;
- The Shieldhall Padre, The Reverend Dennis Mould, will also be present to conduct a short service and wreath laying, to which all are welcome to attend.
- Courtesy parking nearby
- Spice Host
- Booking Fee
Extras
Any food or drink purchased on the event
Coming into the docks from Dock Gate 10 (From Southampton and the East)
From Dock Gate 10, take the roundabout second exit and head in a westerly direction (West Bay Road). At the third roundabout (and level crossing) continue (now Western Avenue) past the dock, turning right when marked into the Shieldhall car park. You will have travelled nearly a mile from the Dock Gate entrance.
Coming into the docks from Dock Gate 20 (From the M271 and the West)
From Dock Gate 20, take the roundabout first exit and head eastwards. Follow the road (Western Avenue) turning left at DP World entrance and on to the next roundabout. Take the first exit (signed for Dock Gate 10) and then turn left when marked into the Shieldhall car park. You will have travelled nearly a mile from the Dock Gate entrance.
When you approach the car park, you will be greeted by a Shieldhall volunteer that will give you directions of where to park.
| Type | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Early Bird Member Only Price - Book by 21 March 25 | £72.00 | Available |
| Member | £80.00 | Available |
| Guest | £82.00 | Available |
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