Waverley sets sail for 70th anniversary season

Sailings from Helensburgh and Kilcreggan aboard the world’s last sea-going Paddle Steamer will begin on the May Bank Holiday weekend.

PS Waverley is celebrating this year, as it is 70 years since her launch, and on Saturday May 28 you can board at Helensburgh to visit Dunoon, Rothesay or steam through the Kyles of Bute to visit Tighnabruaich.

Waverley will sail from Kilcreggan to Dunoon and Rothesay on Bank Holiday Monday May 30, then summer sailings from Helensburgh and Kilcreggan begin on Saturday June 18.

This is a special year for Paddle Steamer Waverley – it marks 70 years since her launch in 1946.

Waverley’s keel was laid on December 27, 1945, but due to material shortages after the war, she was not ready for launch until October 2, 1946.

It wasn’t until the following year on January 20, 1947 that she was towed to Greenock for the installation of her boiler and engines.

Finally she made her maiden voyage on June 16, 1947 and started what was to become a very long career.

Ross Cochrane, Waverley’s Captain, said: “Waverley is a very special ship full of history and charm and there is a trip for everyone – young and old – to enjoy.

“Every passenger who comes aboard helps this beautiful ship continue to sail and I would encourage everyone to come and enjoy a trip on her.

“Some of the best scenery in the world is in the West Coast of Scotland and Waverley offers a unique way to experience it. I look forward to welcoming you onboard.”

To book tickets or for more information visit www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk. Tickets are also available to buy on the ship on the day subject to availability.

Waverley factfile:

• Waverley is operated on a charitable basis by Waverley Steam Navigation Co. Ltd.
• A major restoration project returned the ship to her original 1940s style.
• An independent study found that Waverley contributes over £3m to the Scottish economy.
• Waverley was nominated by the Sunday Times as one of the Top Three Nostalgic Journeys in the World.
• Waverley has a Scottish Tourist Board 4-star tour accreditation.
• Originally built to sail only between Craigendoran and Arrochar, Waverley now sails right around Britain offering regular trips on the Clyde, the Thames, South Coast of England and the Bristol Channel.
• Waverley carries around 130,000 passengers annually.