Steamship Sir Walter Scott Trust

The Steamship Sir Walter Scott Trust is a nonprofit charitable trust responsible for preserving the Steamship for the nation and for public benefit. The Trust operates as the parent Charity (Charity Number SC036605) overseeing all activities at Loch Katrine, with its subsidiary Steamship Sir Walter Scott LTD charged with the day to day delivery of high quality visitor services such as cruises, accomodation, food and retail. All income generated through visitor services or received as donations is reinvested in the operation of the site, continued preservation of the Steamship and protection of the natural and cultural assets that define Loch Katrine as one of the most iconic locations in Scotland.

Continued public support is welcomed to ensure that the Steamship can remain sailing for current and future generations to enjoy.

Read on to discover more about the trust's work; you can donate to the appeal on this page. Thank you for your support.

6 Compelling reasons to support the Steamship

  • 1. Better accessibility for all

    The Steamship carries 220 passengers and is accessible for all mobility and sensory needs. A leading example of a water transport visitor experience in Scotland with wheelchair access.

  • 2. Strengthening the Rural Economy

    The Steamship provides significant direct and indirect employment, protecting jobs and supporting the fragile Trossachs rural economy.

  • 3. Preserving a National Heritage Treasure

    Steamship Sir Walter Scott, built in 1899 on the Clyde is an important National Heritage asset, Scotland's last-serving screw steamship.

  • 4. Improving Connectivity

    The Steamship connects Trossachs Pier with Stronachlachar, a vital transport connection to access cycling and walking routes, including a connection between Loch Katrine and Loch Lomond.

  • 5. Enriching Eduction Opportunities

    The steamer plays a vital role in education, with various themed activities and experiences that provide greater access and understanding of Scotland’s history, wildlife, and nature.

  • 6. Providing Sustainable Transport

    Green biofuel, which substantially reduces carbon emissions, is used on the Steamship now.

Make a donation

Support the charity Steamship Sir Walter Scott Trust by making a donation to ensure that this historic vessel is preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Support our Steamship
Steamship Sir Walter Scott sailing on Loch Katrine in an autumn setting

The Story of Steamship Sir Walter Scott Trust

The Steamship Sir Walter Scott Trust, a charitable organisation, was formed in 2005, to preserve the Steamship for the nation and the enjoyment of the public. Thanks to the generous support of the public and grant funders, this magnificent Steamship, which started sailing on Loch Katrine in 1900, is still sailing today. 

The much-loved Steamer faced an uncertain future shortly after celebrations for her centenary in 2000. Initially in private ownership through local hoteliers, the Steamship became an asset of the various water authorities responsible for Loch Katrine, Glasgow’s water supply. However, the formation of Scottish Water threw the future of the Steamer into doubt as the Steamer was deemed to be a non-core asset that had to be disposed of. This meant there was a real risk of the historic ship being scrapped.

Sir William McAlpine’s Lifeline for the Steamship

Thankfully, Graham Ellis, a friend of Gordon Allan (a long-standing boat master on Steamship Sir Walter Scott), raised the case with another friend, Sir William McAlpine, a well-known successful businessman and owner of a large construction company. As a result, Sir William, a steam enthusiast, became interested in the plight of the Steamer. He threw his efforts behind securing a safe future for the Steamship.

Sir William McAlpine established a charitable trust and successfully negotiated with Scottish Government Ministers and Scottish Water to gift it to the Trust. With support from local MSPs, firstly Sylvia Jackson and then Bruce Crawford, a dowry of £1m was secured for the essential works required to keep her sailing.

Billy Petrie OBE, Second Chairman of The Trust

When Sir William sadly passed away in 2018, it was vital to have strong leadership to ensure a smooth transition and secure future for the Steamship. Thankfully, Billy Petrie OBE became Chairman following decades of involvement with Loch Katrine and the Steamship as a Strathclyde Regional Councillor, a member of the West of Scotland Water Board and one of the founding trustees of the Steamship Trust. Sadly, Billy Petrie passed away in 2022 after helping steer through the plans for the most recent restoration programme. Professor Paul Jowitt has succeeded him.

Ahead of 2020 sailings, a routine inspection discovered hairline cracks on the boilers. The pandemic that followed shortly afterwards left the Steamship deteriorating and needing significant repairs. An SOS Save our Steamship appeal was launched to raise the £500,000 required. Generous public support, with onsite and online donations, together with grants from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Stirling Council, The Hugh Fraser Foundation and Gordon Fraser Charitable Trust, made the restoration possible. However, costs grew to over £850,000, and a bank loan was secured to complete the work. 

The historic Steamship is back sailing, using more efficient fuels, with new decking, restored seating, and other significant works. As part of the programme, we have introduced this exhibition, improved facilities for disabled visitors and involved local young people in skills training apprenticeships and work experience.