An emergency appeal has been launched to help the paddle steamer Waverley survive beyond the Covid-19 crisis.
The iconic vessel has returned to service for the first time in two years, following a £2.3m project to renew her boilers.
Initially she had been expected to call at Kilcreggan the previous day, but that sailing was cancelled because of ‘an unexpected issue’.
The Waverley sailed past the Rosneath Peninsula on her way to Blairmore yesterday though, and is due to call at Kilcreggan on the next two Fridays.
General manager Paul Semple said: “We are delighted that Waverley is back in service operating on the Clyde and carrying passengers.
“We are grateful to all those who supported our Boiler Refit Appeal in 2019 and helped ensure that Waverley lives on.
“Since we opened bookings just four days ago demand for tickets has been high, with several sailings now sold out. Waverley has a loyal customer base and we know many are keen to step aboard the rejuvenated steamship.”
The refit project saw new boilers and electrical systems installed with other areas of the vessel refurbished.
A revised sailing programme is in operation until September 6 due to ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, with a reduced number of calling points, reduced capacity and increased time to board and disembark passengers.
Mr Semple added: “With the length of Waverley’s sailing season being reduced from five months to just over two weeks due to Covid-19, this will present a funding challenge as we try to cover the costs associated with the coming winter period.
“We are now opening an emergency appeal to seek donations to ensure Waverley can survive beyond Covid-19.”
Donations can be made online at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by texting STEAM followed by your chosen amount £10 or £20 to 70085.
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