By 1965, the PSPS was aware that the Kingswear Castle would be withdrawn. At the time, it expected that only four or five paddlers would be in service by 1970. Kingswear Castle and Totnes Castle were seen as the best options for the future. The Society felt though that any such undertaking would require 'vast amounts of talent, money and above all enthusiasm amongst members' and that it would be a 'serious business'. Kingswear Castle is seen above laid-up in 1965 on the River Dart in Devon..

By 1966, the PSPS Chairman felt that the Society was at a crossroads as it needed to find a direction 'now that the day of the commercial paddle steamers and even of the paddle ferry was almost finished'.