Steamboat and popular tourism in Spain in the mid-nineteenth century

What is it about?

Maritime transport was revolutionised by steam technology during the nineteenth century. Together with the establishment of the first regular lines, steamers soon led to the commencement of pleasure navigation. The aim of this article is to analyse the impact and scope of this process in Spain, by means of a study of the first experiences in the mid-19th century. In addition to a brief introduction and the final conclusions, the paper is structured around four sections. The first one contains an appraisal of the situation of passenger transport at that time. Some information is then provided regarding the first cruise in 1854. Next, it highlights some of the features of the short excursions which were very well-received by the public, especially in the island of Majorca. Finally, attention is given to a very special type of travel, the main attraction of which lay in the opportunity to witness an event of a military nature

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