Full Steam Ahead – a new canopy for a historic steam tug

Stuart Canvas was recently approached by The Daniel Adamson Preservation Society, to produce a replacement canopy for the only surviving 1903 steam tug–tender ship, the Daniel Adamson.

The canopy was designed to protect the outside seating and viewing area which is situated above the beautifully resorted art deco lounges of the vessel.  The canopy is made from durable 650gsm PVC marquee cloth which provides a waterproof and UV resistant barrier to the weather. The material is also easy to clean which was essential on a steam-powered vehicClear PVC windows are heat welded into the PVC canopy which creates large viewing areas while maintaining a weatherproof seal. Our design department created the canopy with ease of use in mind, the lower fixings allow for the canopy to be rolled up and stored on the vessel during the summer and the quickly put back in place during the winter months or when bad weather appears.  This creates a versatile product which allows the Daniel Adamson to operate river cruises all year round.

The visual aesthetics of the new canopy had to tie into the appearance of the classic ship as this beautiful ship has been loving restored to its original condition.   The crisp white colour and small windows of the canopy help enhance the look of the period ship.The latest round of restoration of the Danial Adamson started in 2004 when the Daniel Adamson Preservation Society spearheaded by Mersey tug skipper Dan Cross with the help of Tony Hirst, a former director of the Ellesmere Port Boat Museum, purchased the Daniel Adamson, saving the tug from being sold for scrap. The long restoration process started with the help and fundraising of many volunteers. In February 2015 the Heritage Lottery Fund awarded £3.8m to restore the Daniel Adamson to full working order. The dedication of many volunteers’ means that today the Danial Adamson offers river cruises, tours and is a familiar sight along the river Weaver and Mersey once more.

At Stuart Canvas we specialise in the manufacture and design of bespoke canopies for both modern and period projects. Contact us to find out more.

To find out more information on the Daniel Adamson Steam Tug-Tender and to book cruises and tour, please visit their website www.thedanny.co.uk.