The three Denny Diesels, Southsea, Brading and Shanklin, each gave the Portsmouth – Ryde route an outstanding period of service. They were revolutionary both in their design and mode of propulsion and, as products of Denny’s fabled Dumbarton yard, they resembled miniature cross-Channel vessels. Their spacious decks, ample and comfortable saloons, ease of loading, steadiness at sea and quietness on passage made them such an immediate success that the first two ships were shortly followed by the third.

Throughout their long and reliable careers, they became the most successful ferries the route has ever known and were a credit to both their builders and operators. To thousands of Islanders, the three ships represented a way of life and their withdrawal and subsequent demise was the cause of great regret.

136 pages.