Topic starter
23/08/2010 2:38 am
As I mentioned in my posting in the River Ramblings thread, I boarded the BELLE today with trepidation, worried how the installation of the airconditioning would affect her appearance. Not to worry - the fine craftsmanship of the new wooden/glass doors and partitions was worthy of a fine liner, and the positioning of the a/c units overhead made them quite unobtrusive. The metal grillwork in steamboat white and red which hides the condensers on the roof is a great touch. But - a real wooden door for the bathroom, which is now also airconditioned? A long way from seeing the river through the seat and the canvas stall doors. Wow! As usual with renovations on the BELLE, her crew was largely responsible for the work. What a difference when something is done by people knowledgeable about steamboats and who care about them! A job well done, and I understand it is paying dividends already this season in passenger counts, which bodes well for the BELLE's future.
Topic starter
23/08/2010 2:44 am
More BELLE photos
1) more a/c forward of pilothouse
2) one of the nameboards Alan Bates chiseled out - discussed in a previous thread
3) can't look any more old-timey than this!
23/08/2010 3:00 am
Thanks for these posts and pictures, Judy. I assume the a/c works well and keeps the cabin cool? I am thrilled to see this. People expect it nowadays, and if it keeps the old gal running and passengers coming to her, it is a great thing.
Hats off to the crew for their beautiful craftsmanship.
Topic starter
23/08/2010 9:41 am
a/c
It was downright cold when I walked through there at the beginning of the trip. Maybe warm bodies warmed it up a bit, but it was powerful. I guess the one inconvenience is having to pull open a door when you've got a hot dog and soda in your hands and you're heading upstairs.
23/08/2010 7:27 pm
We rode the Belle for the Sat. Aug.21 Noon trip and I totally agree about the new AC. Very nice, tastefully done and works very well! Also new, (as of last year) there is a handicap elevator from the boiler deck to the main deck. It too has been well done and fits in very nicely with the old gal's traditional architecture.