Get Involved
Volunteers are the backbone of the Balmoral.
Get Involved Now
Moored in the heart of Bristol’s Floating Harbour, the historic MV Balmoral offers visitors the chance to step back in time. Built in 1949 and lovingly restored by volunteers, she’s a living piece of maritime history — open to explore, discover, and enjoy. Whether you’re a ship enthusiast, a family on a day out, or simply curious, everyone’s welcome aboard.
Ways to get involved
Moored in the heart of Bristol’s Floating Harbour, the historic MV Balmoral offers visitors the chance to step back in time. Built in 1949 and lovingly restored by volunteers, she’s a living piece of maritime history — open to explore, discover, and enjoy. Whether you’re a ship enthusiast, a family on a day out, or simply curious, everyone’s welcome aboard.
Volunteer Spotlight
Moored in the heart of Bristol’s Floating Harbour, the historic MV Balmoral offers visitors the chance to step back in time. Built in 1949 and lovingly restored by volunteers, she’s a living piece of maritime history — open to explore, discover, and enjoy. Whether you’re a ship enthusiast, a family on a day out, or simply curious, everyone’s welcome aboard.
What to Expect on Board
Bridge & Wheelhouse
Climb up to the bridge and see where the captain steered her through British coastal waters for decades. The wheel, compass, and engine telegraphs are all original — and still in working order.
Engine Room
Below deck, the Balmoral’s beating heart still hums. Peer into the immaculate engine room, lovingly maintained by our volunteer engineers — a rare chance to see classic marine engineering up close.
Shop and Saloon
Our onboard shop stocks maritime gifts, local crafts, and Balmoral memorabilia. Relax in the saloon or on deck with a coffee and take in views of the harbour — there’s no place quite like it.