Has there ever been any attempt (full-size or scale-modelled) to build a Paddle Ship being propelled by a "Stirling" engine. Note - cannot be designated as a Paddle Steamer - because there is no steam involved!

At the Bristol (UK) Model & Hobbies Show in August there was a model open-boat (dinghy) powered  with a "Stirling" engine driving a single screw propellor. And the Swedish shipbuilder - Kochums have built at least 10 commercially successful Stirling powered submarines during the 1980s.

Stirling engines are often called "hot air engines" as they do not depend on combustion of gases, but rely on the difference between hot and cold air, (there are many and various web-sites which provide more details).
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