After an absence of four years the World’s last seagoing paddle steamer is returning to the south coast to offer a variety of sailings from Southampton, Portsmouth, Poole, Swanage and Yarmouth.

The sound of paddle beats was last heard on the South Coast and Thames back in 2018. Since then Waverley has been re-boilered and seen some major refurbishment work thanks to successful public fundraising appeals.

Waverley’s General Manager, Paul Semple, explained “I am delighted to announce that Waverley will make her triumphant return to the waters of the South Coast and Thames allowing everyone the opportunity to step aboard and enjoy the unique experience of sailing on a paddle steamer. From 2nd to 21st September Waverley will be cruising the Solent, round the Isle of Wight, along Dorset’s Jurassic coastline and offering passengers the chance to step ashore to visit Yarmouth and Swanage.

Daily Echo:

Earlier this season we celebrated the 75th Anniversary since Waverley’s maiden voyage, a milestone very few Clyde steamers have reached. With the beat of her paddles, the sound of her whistle and the aroma of hot oil in her engine room Waverley seems alive as she takes passengers on a nostalgic journey. I know many will be pleased to see the sight of her famous red, white and black funnels in the coming weeks.”

There are some special sailings planned which includes Waverley meeting with the preserved Steamship Shieldhall to view the Bournemouth Air Festival on Sunday 4th September. There is also the opportunity to enjoy the ultimate steam day out by combining a cruise on Waverley with a trip on the Swanage Railway. Passengers from Waverley can purchase a combined ticket and take a steam train ride through the Purbeck Countryside to Corfe Castle. 

Daily Echo:

The ever-popular cruise round the Isle of Wight is back! Sailing each Saturday and Tuesday Waverley will circumnavigate the Isle of Wight giving views of the Needles Rocks and Lighthouse, Freshwater Bay, St Catherine's Lighthouse and the various coastal towns including Shanklin, Sandown, and Cowes. 

This year as Waverley returns there trips when kids go free and discounts for seniors including the popular ‘Seniors Bring a Friend for Half Fare’ special offer on Fridays.

Tickets for all of Waverley’s sailings can be booked online at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 243 2224.