The SS Daniel Adamson – the UK's last surviving steam tug tender and a vessel of historic national importance – has launched a critical £150,000 fundraising appeal to remain operational and compliant with new safety regulations.
Without urgent support this 122-year-old maritime treasure, listed 15th on the National Historic Ships Register, faces the risk of being permanently docked.
The funding will cover mandatory inspections, repairs to the steam boiler, new life rafts, and a fixed firefighting system – all necessary to meet updated Maritime and Coastguard Agency requirements.
Built in Birkenhead in 1903 at what is now the Cammell Laird Shipyard, The Danny is the UK's last surviving steam-powered tug tender with original steam machinery intact.
Director of the Daniel Adamson Preservation Society Andrea Ward warned: 'Operating a historic steam vessel to modern passenger standards is extraordinarily expensive. Without sustainable funding, we face the very real risk of losing an irreplaceable vessel that represents so much of our region’s maritime and engineering excellence.'
Despite the challenges, The Danny is steaming ahead with her role as a floating classroom and cultural beacon, but is also looking for new sponsors. Since her 2016 relaunch, she has welcomed more than 39,000 visitors, hosted 840 educational workshops, and provided volunteer opportunities for over 350 local residents. Today, the ship's acclaimed Maritime Heritage, Maritime Futures programme connects students with the region's rich maritime legacy and future industry pathways.
Nautilus member Captain David McNamee, a volunteer skipper since 2016, said: 'There are two important things that contribute to keeping The Danny sailing – coal and the dedication of her volunteers. I wholeheartedly recommend joining the volunteer team to anyone, regardless of their background.'
The Maritime Heritage, Maritime Futures programme, now in its third year, delivers shipyard tours, industry-led masterclasses, and behind-the-scenes learning to students from across Merseyside. Three cohorts of construction and engineering students at Hugh Baird College in Liverpool have now completed the programme. STEM lead at the college Dr Charuni Dissanayake called it 'an incredibly powerful project', enriching the curriculum and offering real-world insights into the maritime sector’s transition to Net Zero.
The programme was initially funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund but is now reaching the end of its grant funding period. New sponsors including Brookes Bell, Armitt, Marine Turbo, The Liverpool Marine Engineers' and Naval Architects' Guild, and IMK Marine Services have stepped up to help secure the programme's future. Their support ensures continued free access for students, but the programme is still on the lookout for further sponsors.
To find out more visit www.thedanny.co.uk and to support the fundraising go to: www.justgiving.com/campaign/thedanny.
Tags
More articles
Nautilus marks VE Day with remembrance and reflection
Nautilus honoured Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) in the UK with a heartfelt day of remembrance, reflection, and community spirit in London and Nautilus Mariners' Park in Wallasey.
Iconic UK historic steamship Shieldhall sails into 70th anniversary celebrations
Southampton's historic steamship, SS Shieldhall, will mark its 70th year afloat with a rare joint sailing alongside the paddle steamer Waverley in the UK on Saturday 13 September 2025.