The identity of this vessel is unknown, but the text on the back of the card gives the date as 1st June 2015. On this date, a press report tells us that a wartime ferry service to France was inaugurated. It seems likely that the picture shows the first vessel on this service entering the harbour and, given the date, it’s possible that the name has been obscured for operational reasons. It’s perhaps surprising that, one year into WW1, boats are still available to hire, but this was the reality recorded on many postcards of the period.

The card was published by William Wareham as printed on the back; a well known local photographer and publisher whose activities are described in more detail here..