Industrial And Transport

Saving Clyde Puffer Steamboat ‘VIC32’

Sustaining VIC32: Scotland’s Last Sailing Clyde Puffer VIC32 is the UK’s only remaining steam-powered Clyde Puffer still sailing, offering weeklong passenger holidays on Scotland’s West Coast, River Clyde, Caledonian and Crinan Canals. This project ensures continued preservation, financial viability, and sustainability. Works include completing hull plating, rebuilding the wooden wheelhouse, asbestos removal and engineering overhauls to the steam engine condenser, and propeller shaft. To reduce emissions and costs, VIC32 will transition to biofuel, install a waste oil recovery system, add a foresail and fit a steam turbine generator. The project will provide specialist, hands-on maritime and steam engineering training for crew, apprentices, and passengers, while expanding access to a more inclusive and diverse visitor base. A new community and education space at Crinan will support volunteer and training activities. Strengthening the trustee board and involving more Scottish people across the project will help secure VIC32’s future for generations to come.