Captain Hayward

Captain William Hayward was an English sailor. He was in command of the steamer when it undertook a trial, day return, crossing of the English Channel organized by the South Eastern Railway from Folkestone to Boulogne-sur-Mer in June 1843. The crossing was a part of the first one day round trip from London across the English Channel, which included a 2 hour 10 minute stopover for passengers in Boulogne.

The new Water Witch, commanded by Captain Hayward had before this event, been carrying passengers from Dover to Boulogne, since November 1836. Two ships ran the service, the other being Royal George whose master was Captain Swaffer. The ships sailed from Dover, every Sunday, Tuesday and Friday, returning the following day.