Isle of Wight Paddle Steamer Monarch

The Monarch is the smallest genuine paddle steamer in the world and runs on the river Medina which flows between Newport and Cowes on the Isle of Wight. We joined at Newport Harbour and parked in the Quay Street Car Park nearby.The boarding spot is opposite the art gallery terrace by a large black propeller and you know when the boat is coming into the harbour because you can hear the very loud steam whistle...my son loved the whistle and even got a try at blowing it!At £10 per head and 6 for children, it is not the cheapest attraction but we had a wonderful hour on the boat and sitting on the back deck is wonderful as you are at the same level as the hundreds of swans on the river which pass you by....go and try it-we're certainly going back for more!

Their website is www.medinamonarch.co.uk