The steamship was built as part of an extensive modernization of the fleet of the Prague Steamship Company, which took place in 1937-38. The modernization concerned all types of ships and included both repairs and improvements of existing ships, as well as the construction of new ships. Of the four steamships that were built at that time, two are active today – VLTAVA and VYŠEHRAD.
The construction of the steamship VYŠEHRAD took place in the Ústí shipyard under the leadership of the chief designer Ing. Josef Huss. Despite the new technologies already known at that time, the classic technology of steam propulsion was used to propel it, with regard to quiet operation, minimal vibrations and easy and fast manoeuvring at stations on the line. The construction of the steamboat, which cost the Prague Steamship Company 2.5 million crowns, proceeded relatively quickly and already in the spring of 1938 the steamer was ceremonially christened with its original name – ANTONÍN ŠVEHLA. Later it was renamed several times until the current name was arrived at – VYŠEHRAD.
Originally, this saloon steamer was used for fast transport on the route Prague – Vrana Dam. The rides were very popular and the steamer used to be well occupied. The average number of people on board used to be around 150 people. Later, it was used for passenger transport in other sections as well. After World War II, the steamer underwent several reconstructions. In the sixties, a reconstruction took place, which gave the steamer a modern face for that time thanks to the design and illumination of the on-board salons. Over time, it also switched from solid fuels to liquid fuels. Another complete renovation was carried out in the nineties and the last modifications at the turn of 2006/2007. Now the steamer is ready for luxury sightseeing cruises in Prague in renewed glory and splendor.
