The world’s last seagoing paddle steamer has returned to the South Coast for the first time in 4 years to offer locals and visitors a variety of cruises from Southampton, Portsmouth, Poole, Swanage and Yarmouth this September.
PS Waverley set sail from Southampton this morning (Friday) for a cruise to The Needles rocks and lighthouse at the westerly tip of the Isle of Wight. Given that this was the historic steam ship’s first sailing from the Isle of Wight since 2018, tickets were sold out.
The sound of paddle beats on the South Coast and Thames dates back to the 19th century when numerous steamers plied their trade. In 2022, Waverley is the only operational paddle steamer in Great Britain and her return to the South Coast and Thames this Autumn is a cause for celebration.
Waverley’s General Manager, Paul Semple, says:
“I am thrilled that Waverley has made her triumphant return to the waters of the South Coast after a prolonged period of absence. The ship has loyal supporters in the area with many people wishing her well as she returns to cruise the waters of the South Coast, Solent and Thames. The sight of her famous twin red, white and black funnels is sure to bring back fond memories of years passed. We also look forward to welcoming passengers who have yet to experience Waverley.
“Earlier this season we celebrated the 75th Anniversary since Waverley’s maiden voyage, a milestone very few Clyde steamers ever reached. With the beat of her paddles, the sound of her whistle and the aroma of hot oil in her engine room Waverley comes alive as she takes passengers on a nostalgic journey – one though which is now threatened due to rising costs.
“Sailing Waverley from her home waters on the Firth of Clyde to the South Coast has cost us over £50,000 so it is vital that we see continued support for the ship if she is to remain in operation. This season we are facing an 80% increase in fuel costs. Waverley currently costs around £12 per minute on fuel alone. It is costing the charity which owns the ship a staggering £8,000 per day to steam Waverley and therefore I truly hope many will support us by coming for a wonderful cruise.”
Waverley will be cruising the Solent, steaming round the Isle of Wight, along Dorset’s Jurassic coastline and offering passengers the chance to step ashore to visit Yarmouth and Swanage over the next 3 weeks. She will then steam on to London and the Thames offering the opportunity to cruise under the world-famous Tower Bridge as it opens just for Waverley!
Tickets for all of Waverley’s sailings can be booked online at www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 243 2224.
“Triumphant”?
Better get those fenders out; no pier is safe when Waverley is in the offing.
One of our favourite days ever, round the island trip on the Waverley. So beautiful seeing the island from a different viewpoint. The children loved it too. Would definitely recommend if you can.
Superb adventure, cruising on the Waverley. Classic and oh so enjoyable. Reminiscent of glorious older times, no rush, no panic. The task of keeping the brass in the engine room, mammoth but done. Power on Waverley and full support for ship.