The Waverley sets off "doon the water" to mark 80 years since launch

The Waverley is sailing “doon the watter” for the first time this season marking 80 years since she first launched in 1946.

Crowds gathered on the quayside as the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer returned to service, beginning a nationwide programme of cruises in its landmark anniversary year.

Paul Semple, General Manager of Waverley Excursions expressed his excitement for the upcoming season: “Today marks the beginning of a very special season for Waverley as she returns to service celebrating 80 years since her launch.

“Eight decades on, passengers can still experience the unique sights, sounds and atmosphere of travelling aboard a real steamship and we are delighted to see Waverley back sailing after a winter refit which saw a £1.5 million investment in the ship.”

In each of the past three consecutive summer seasons the Waverley has attracted more than 150,000 passengers keen to experience the sights and sounds of a real steamship.

Throughout the summer, the Waverley will visit destinations across the Clyde Coast, Inner Hebrides, South Cornwall and South Devon, Bristol Channel and South Wales, South Coast and Isle of Wight, North Wales, the Mersey and the Thames Estuary, carrying thousands of passengers aboard Britain’s much-loved paddle steamer.

2026 Sailing Areas Include:

• Clyde Spring: Friday 8th – Sunday 10th May

• Oban & Inner Hebrides: Tuesday 12th – Tuesday 19th May

• South West (South Cornwall & South Devon): Friday 22nd – Monday 25th May

• Bristol Channel & South West Wales: Tuesday 26th May – Wednesday 17th June

• North Wales & the Mersey: Friday 19th – Monday 22nd June

• Northern Ireland: Tuesday 23rd & Wednesday 24th June

• Clyde Summer: Friday 26th June – Sunday 30th August

• South Coast & Isle of Wight: Thursday 3rd – Tuesday 22nd September

• London & Thames Estuary: Thursday 24th September – Sunday 11th October

• Clyde Autumn: Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th October