Welcome aboard!

“Republica” river boat is one of the last remnants of the paddle navigational system, the only steamer warship of the world. For any visitor, “Republica” becomes a bridge to past times; to the places where true sailors once lived.

Carrying out her entire activity on the Danube River, “Republica” was, is and will still be part of the spirit of this river, the heart of the captains who commanded her throughout time.

Built in Austria, in the shipyard from Linz in 1903, she became a Romanian vessel in 1919 being overtaken among the other spoils of war from Austro–Hungary.

Currently, “Republica” is lingering in Tulcea port, with her 100 year old stories.

Discover the technology used in the XIX century!

The original mechanisms of the ship were kept and preserved throughout time. Therefore, on “Republica” you may find:

• the steam engine with Joe-type double horizontal and bow inclined expansion;
• paddle propeller;
• steam servomotor for controlling the steering gear;
• steam servomotor driven anchor winch;
• ship hull – high quality steel.

The boat was reaching a speed of 18 miles/hour under reverse flow conditions. The engine had a power of 404 kW (x 1,36 = 550 HP). As it was a warship, she was equipped with two 14 mm machine guns and a 37 mm armored gun.

In 2008, “Republica” became part of the national cultural heritage, in "Treasure" category, under the management of Tulcea Local Council.