The project was to replace the existing boiler, built in 1961 by Stockton Chemical Engineers and Riley Boilers Ltd, on a like for like basis, with the aim of securing the operational preservation of this historic vessel for a further 25 to 30 years and was financed with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Manifold Trust and the Paddle Steamer preservation Society.
Quotations for the new boiler were received in March 2000 from eight potential suppliers. The contract was awarded to Wellman Robey of Birmingham.
Engineers from Wellman Robey visited Kingswear Castle on 13th April 2000 to confirm measurements and the correct positions for the mountings etc. for the new boiler.
The plans for the new boiler were approved in August 2000 by Royal and Sun Alliance surveyors acting on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
The albums below chart the building and installation of the new boiler. Kingswear Castle returned to service on Friday 4th May 2001.
New Boiler Under Construction 7th December 2000
Removal of Old Boiler 26th January 2001
Boiler Construction Update 12th February 2001
Construction Almost Complete 26th February 2001
Preparing the Boiler Room 27th February 2001
Boiler Lifted into Kingswear Castle 6th March 2001
New Fiddley Lifted Aboard 27th March 2001
Boiler Installation Progress 13th April 2001
