The SS Great Britain is the world’s first great ocean liner and when launched in 1843 she was called ‘the greatest experiment since the creation’. After 40 years as a passenger ship and then a cargo ship, she was severely damaged off Cape Horn and left to rot in the Falkland Islands until 1970, when she was re-floated and bought back to Bristol, where a charity refurbished her and cares for the ship and Brunel’s collections.
Brunel’s ship is now Bristol’s number one tourist attraction and has been lovingly restored to her original glory, exactly as she would have been ready for her maiden voyage. She sits in a dry dock on a glass ‘sea’ and dominates Bristol’s historic waterfront.
This is a very rare opportunity to dine on the this world-famous ship, as London’s Liveries, (led by the Engineers, naturally!), have her for our exclusive use that evening.
A welcome drink which will be served on the Weather Deck from 6pm, with spectacular views over Bristol harbour. If the weather is less kind, we will use the Promenade Deck, where the first-class passengers would take their afternoon stroll on rainy days. This is flooded with natural light and has a number of exhibits that we can explore.
At 7:30 we will assemble for Dinner in the First Class Dining Saloon, which has been completely refurbished in the original style. With marbled pillars and rococo mirrors it makes a grand setting. A three-course meal will be served, with wine. There will be entertainment after the meal and further drinks will be available to purchase.
We have exclusive use of the Great Britain from 6pm to midnight and are invited to explore it, making the most of this unique venue.
Dress code is dinner suits for gentlemen and cocktail/summer dresses for ladies. Colour is to be encouraged, as is comfort.
The ship is easy to reach by car, public transport or on foot. There are also several hotels near the ship, for those who wish to stay over on the Friday night, and Clare can advise on these.
The Company has reserved ten places initially at £142 each, but if there is the demand, we can go back for more.