A steamboat is a boat that is propelled primarily by steam power, typically driving propellers or paddlewheels. Steamboats sometimes use the prefix designation SS, S.S. or S/S or PS ; however, these designations are most often used for steamships.
Lookout, transport steamer on the Tennessee River, c. 1860–1865
Dutch river steam-tugboat Mascotte II
Model of the steamship built in 1784 by Claude de Jouffroy.
Charlotte Dundas, built by William Symington.
A marine steam engine is a steam engine that is used to power a ship or boat. This article deals mainly with marine steam engines of the reciprocating type, which were in use from the inception of the steamboat in the early 19th century to their last years of large-scale manufacture during World War II. Reciprocating steam engines were progressively replaced in marine applications during the 20th century by steam turbines and marine diesel engines.
Side-lever engine of SS Pacific (1849)
Side-lever engine of RMS Persia (1855)
Model of the twin side-lever engines of the 1836 Thames River steamboat Ruby
Early Napier side-lever engine from PS Leven, on display at Dumbarton, Scotland