Liverpool’s historic steam tug “The Danny” launches urgent appeal to raise £150,000 and stay afloat

She’s survived two world wars, towed barges down the Ship Canal, and become one of the most loved vessels in Merseyside’s maritime heritage — but now, the historic steam tug The Danny is facing one of her biggest challenges yet.

The Daniel Adamson Preservation Society, the charity behind the vessel’s remarkable restoration, has launched an urgent fundraising appeal to raise £150,000. The money is needed to carry out essential safety and maintenance work so that this rare piece of Liverpool’s nautical past can continue to welcome passengers and stay compliant with tough new regulations.

The appeal comes exactly nine years to the day since The Danny triumphantly returned to the water following years of restoration by a dedicated team of volunteers.

Built in Birkenhead in 1903 at what’s now Cammell Laird, The Danny is the UK’s last remaining steam-powered tug tender still running with her original machinery. She’s an extraordinary survivor — and an irreplaceable link to the city’s shipbuilding legacy.

But keeping a 122-year-old steamship afloat and compliant with today’s passenger safety standards isn’t easy, or cheap. The Preservation Society says vital upgrades are now needed, including new life rafts, a fixed firefighting system, and boiler inspections required by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Andrea Ward, Director of the Daniel Adamson Preservation Society, said:

“We’ve reached a critical moment. Without these essential upgrades, The Danny can’t continue operating — and that puts her future, and everything she offers the community, at risk.

“This is more than just a vessel. It’s living history, and we need help now to preserve it for generations to come.”

Since her full relaunch in 2016, The Danny has been far more than a floating museum. She’s offered steam-powered cruises along the River Weaver, the Manchester Ship Canal, and the Mersey, giving visitors of all ages the chance to step back in time aboard a true working piece of history.

She’s also made waves with her community outreach and education work. Through the award-winning Maritime Heritage, Maritime Futures programme, young people from across the Liverpool City Region have been introduced to careers in shipbuilding, maritime engineering and heritage through hands-on workshops, site visits and tours.

Dr. Charuni Dissanayake of Hugh Baird College praised the project, saying:

“The Danny’s team have provided our students with an exceptional journey. It’s a rare opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experience in a way that truly makes an impact.”

Since her restoration, The Danny has welcomed more than 39,000 visitors, run 840 educational workshops, and supported over 350 volunteers. More than 270 students have completed its maritime education programme — with many going on to further study or careers in the sector.

To support the campaign, head to the Just Giving page.

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