Experience life at sea aboard Brunel’s ss Great Britain

Step aboard Brunel's ss Great Britain, one of the world's most important ships, for an incredible journey through its history. 

The ship was an advanced passenger steamship designed for transatlantic service between Bristol and New York by daring engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. When she was launched in Bristol in 1843, she was the first iron steamer to cross the Atlantic and the largest vessel of the time. She transformed travel to America and on her maiden voyage to the United States she easily broke previous speed records.

These days visitors can experience the sights, sounds and smells of life on-board the vessel, from steerage to first class, with audio guides, costumes and more. The bravest travellers can even make like a member of the Victorian crew and try ‘Go Aloft’, which involves climbing the rigging for unparalleled views over Bristol’s Harbourside.  

Content provided by Visit Bristol