Iconic Paddle Steamer - Waverley - Returns To The Isle Of Wight

The world’s last seagoing paddle steamer - Waverley - is returning to the south coast for the first time in four years to offer cruises from the Isle of Wight this September.

Waverley set sail this morning (Friday) from Southampton for a cruise to the famous Needles Rocks and Lighthouse, at the westerly tip of the Island.

The sound of paddle beats on the south coast and The 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.

Waverley’s General Manager, Paul Semple, said:

“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 three weeks. Passengers can also enjoy the ultimate steam day out by combining a cruise on Waverley with a steam train ride through the Purbeck Countryside to Corfe Castle on the Swanage Railway.

As Waverley returns to English waters there are several special offers including ‘Kids go FREE’ tickets and discounts for seniors including the popular ‘Seniors Bring a Friend for FREE’ offer on sailings from Yarmouth on September 7 and 14. NHS workers and those in the care sector can take advantage of a 15% discount if they book in advance.

Waverley will cruise the south coast daily until September 21 before she steams on to London and The Thames.

While on board the famous vessel, passengers have the unique opportunity to fully view the triple expansion steam engine as it drives the ship’s massive paddle wheels and visit the Souvenir Shop to purchase an exclusive memento of their trip aboard Waverley. All profits from the sale of items in the shop go back to the upkeep of the ship. Waverley also has full catering facilities with a self-service restaurant, tea bar and traditional period lounges.

 Tickets for all of Waverley’s sailings can be booked online at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 243 2224.