It is obvious from this engraving of Gravesend by H. Adlard after W.H. Bartlett published in 1842 that there was very little shelter for passengers. [i] The lettering on the paddle box of the steamer on the right is indistinct but it might be the Vesper operated by the Star Steam packet Company from 1842. [ii] Windmill Hill - mentioned in the following verse - is at the far right.
References:
[i] ihttp://www.gravesend-kent.kentpoi.co.uk/files/stacks_image_2306.jpg
[ii] Dix, Frank L. - Royal River Highway: A History of the Passenger Boats and Services on the River Thames. (David & Charles,1985) p268