Demolition Of Benalmadena Steamboat Begins – CSN News

David Sackler February 6, 2025 What's On Leave a comment

Demolition Of Benalmadena Steamboat Begins. After years of neglect, the landmark steamboat at Benalmadena Marina is being scrapped.

Demolition Of Benalmadena Steamboat Begins

In Benalmadena, work has started to dismantle the historic and legendary Willow Steamboat. The boat has been neglected for years and is now being scrapped. The paddle steamer was abandoned after its owners filed for bankruptcy in 1998. It began to sink in 2019 following a severe storm.

Willow is currently being demolished by heavy machinery that includes a hydraulic claw. The town hall has ordered the demolition, which is expected to last a month. Security is on site and pedestrian walkways have been closed around the vessel to deter souvenir hunters and curious tourists from trespassing.

Willow’s bell is being donated to The Brotherhood of the Virgen del Rocío de Benalmádena.

Steamboat Willow’s Bell

Willow’s Bell is being donated to charity Brotherhood of the Virgen del Rocío de Benalmádena, The boat will be restored and installed in the main building bell tower by the person who restores it. The metal and wood removed from the boat are sent to be recycled.

Willlow on duty at the Mississippi.

Historic Paddle Steamer

Built in America in 1925 Willow measures 200 feet in length and 65 feet at each side. The massive steamer was used as a lighthouse on the Mississippi, where she continued to serve until 1944 when a collision brought an end to her service. The US Army Corps of Engineers then used it as an accommodation vessel.

Willow’s Move In Spain

In 1962, Willow was relocated to Florida The vessel was abandoned in Belgium until the early 1990s, when a British company took her there for renovation. After the Belgian company closed, the vessel was partially restored and taken to Birkenhead. It was then moved to Spain in 1997.

After a 2019 storm, Willow began to sink.

Derelict Steamboat

She has been living in Benalmadena since her arrivalWillow was a restaurant/entertainment venue that operated from 1998 until its owners filed for bankruptcy. Since then, the boat has been abandoned. Last year, plans were announced to scrap this sinking steamboat.

Published: 06.02.2025

Written by Dave James.