Blackpool Boat: ‘The People’s Choice’
Market Street Railway receives more queries about this odd-looking English tram than any other car. Staff at our San Francisco Railway Museum report there is great disappointment among visitors who are told that Muni does not currently operate it in passenger service. When the car appeared on the F-line in past years, it brought smiles to all who saw it go by—its nautical air whistle gaily tooting.
This car, No. 228, is actually the second ‘Boat’ to run on Muni’s tracks. An identical ex-Blackpool tram was leased from the Western Railway Museum in Rio Vista Junction. It was so popular, a Market Street Railway member got an unused Boat donated by Blackpool Transport, with San Francisco-based Bechtel covering the shipping.
This car is a tremendous public relations vehicle for Muni, as it demonstrates a sense of whimsy while celebrating San Francisco’s maritime heritage and providing popular transit service to Fisherman’s Wharf, all in one package. All aboard!
1934
Built in England for Blackpool Tramways. Entered seasonal service on that resort’s seacoast line to Fleetwood and other lines.
1976
Loaned to Philadelphia PA, regauged and repainted for special service during the US Bicentennial. Later returned to Blackpool and stored.
1984
Acquired as a gift to Muni, repainted from Philadelphia livery into original Blackpool green & cream, and restored to standard gauge by Muni crafts workers. Entered service during second Trolley Festival, replacing leased museum car of same type.
1985-87
Operated successfully in final three Trolley Festivals. Led opening parade one year.
1995
Its popularity led Muni to choose it to lead the parade opening the permanent F-line.
2000
Began serving the F-line extension on The Embarcadero to Fisherman’s Wharf. Later made ADA-accessible (as a single-end car).
2005
Unavoidable accident during pull-in damaged the car. Muni shops repaired it at considerable expense.
2006
On its first day back in regular F-line service, Muni rail managers ordered it back to the car barn. When asked for an explanation, Market Street Railway was told by a Muni manager, “The car is too popular. People want to get on and it holds up the line.” The car has not operated in revenue service since.
2007
Muni CEO Nat Ford pledges that the Boat Tram will be restored to revenue F-line shuttle service on The Embarcadero by Memorial Day.
Market Street Railway’s goal
Continued operation of the Boat Tram in Embarcadero revenue F-line shuttle service during good weather, resolve loading issues to facilitate revenue operation on Market Street as well. By 2012, modify to meet CPUC requirements, restore double-ended operability as an ADA-accessible tram, and place the car in recurring revenue operation as part of the core vintage collection operating plan.
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