A coloured aquatint showing 'Columbus' steamship in port broadside view in seas full of movement resulting from a forceful wind. Two other vessels on the horizon are pitching at steep angles imbuing the scene with a sense of drama.

The print is inscribed: 'The Columbus, Steam Ship. To Sir Thomas M. Hardy Bar.t. G.C.B. Vice Admiral of the Blue Governor of Greenwich Hospital. This plate is respectfully dedicated, by his most Obedient Servant Thomas Howard. This Vessel having Mr. Howard's Patent Vapor Engines, can carry 50 days fuel..."

Dimensions of 'Columbus' are given.