For much of the 19th century the most convenient way to get over to Edinburgh and the Lothians from Fife was by sea. There were a number of ferry ports along the Fife coast. Largo became a landing point for steamers not because it had a large harbour but rather because it was well-connected to decent roads. Once the Chain Pier was completed at Newhaven in 1821, regular sailings between it and Largo were established and persisted for many decades, featuring a number of different vessels, a couple of which are mentioned below.
This advert from the Caledonian Mercury of 5 May 1828 publicises two daily round trips between Largo and the Chain Pier on the steam packet 'Victory'. The advert went on to give details of a "new light post coach" service from Largo to Anstruther which would leave Anstruther at 04:30 to connect to the 6am ferry. It would also be waiting for the evening arrival at Largo at 8pm to take passengers to the Commercial Inn in Anstruther. Presumably the Victory spent nights berthed in Largo.
In March 1837, the 'St George' was advertised on the route. During this era of the streamer service, there were coach connections between Largo Harbour and the Black Bull Inn in St Andrews, Robertson's Inn Anstruther and Mrs Carnegie's Inn, Cupar.
In January 1843, this vessel was involved in a fatal accident - described in a previous post - when one of its 'flory boats' transferring passengers from the steamer to the shore was sunk.
In January 1843, this vessel was involved in a fatal accident - described in a previous post - when one of its 'flory boats' transferring passengers from the steamer to the shore was sunk.
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