The World’s last seagoing paddle steamer, Waverley, has commenced her 2026 sailing season as the famous ship departed Glasgow to mark 80 years since her launch on the Clyde in 1946.
Crowds gathered on the quayside as Waverley returned to service for her landmark anniversary year, beginning a nationwide programme of cruises which will see the historic vessel sail around the UK coast throughout the 2026 season.
April marked a significant maritime milestone, exactly 100 years since the launch of the pioneering turbine steamer TS King George V. Launched on 29th April 1926, the much-loved “KGV” became a familiar and cherished sight on Scotland’s west coast, initially serving Inveraray before becoming a mainstay of Oban-based cruising from 1935.
From there, she sailed iconic routes to Mull, Iona, Staffa and Fort William, creating lasting memories for generations of passengers before her withdrawal in 1974.
Now, a century on from her launch, history has come full circle with the Waverley recently recreating these historic sailings, offering passengers the chance to experience the same breathtaking routes once operated by King George V.
The world’s last seagoing paddle steamer
During her 80th anniversary year, 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.
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.”
Onboard Waverley passengers can savour the sight and sound of a real steamship – hear the telegraph ring, visit the Engine Room and watch the engine start to move and see the paddles turning through the portholes.
With full catering facilities available throughout all cruises- passengers can enjoy a hot or cold snack, tea and cake in the afternoon, a hot meal in the Dining Saloon or a refreshment in one of the period lounges, as well as a visit to the Souvenir Shop to take home an exclusive gift or memento of their trip on this famous and much-loved ship.
For more information and to book excursions this summer visit: www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk
Did you know?
- In 2026, Paddle Steamer Waverley marks 80 years since her launch on 2 October 1946. This milestone will be followed on 16 June 2027 by the 80th anniversary of Waverley’s maiden voyage, when she entered service in 1947.
- In each of the past three consecutive summer seasons Waverley has attracted over 150,000 passengers reaffirming the affection towards the historic steamer.
- Waverley was built in Glasgow for the London and North Eastern Railway, launched in October 1946, and entered service on 16th June 1947.
- Waverley is the World’s last seagoing paddle steamer and was gifted to the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society in 1974 for £1.
- Since 1975 she has operated in preservation carrying over 6 million passengers, visiting several areas of the UK offering a variety of day, afternoon, and evening cruises. The ship is operated on a ‘not-for-profit’ basis and owned by Waverley Steam Navigation Co. Ltd, a Registered Charity (SC005832).
- The steamer is British Registered for up to 750 passengers and is fully restored to her original 1940s style.
- Sir Timothy Laurence, husband of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, is Patron of Waverley.
- A recent independent Economic Impact Assessment put Waverley’s contribution to the UK economy at £11.6 million showing an increase of over 100% on a similar assessment 8 years previous.
Do you enjoy our content?
Content on the Scottish Banner website remains free for users. Stories and events listed for the international Scottish community continue to be an important resource for many across the world. As advertising revenue remains a challenge, our readers can donate to help us produce unique Scottish content for global Scots. Every contribution counts and thank you for considering your support.
Support the Scottish Banner! To donate to assist with production of our publication and website visit: The Scottish Banner