Waverley paddle steamer set for 50th anniversary Ayrshire summer excursions

Daily Record

3 days ago

The paddle steamer Waverley is set to return to the Ayrshire coast for a series of summer cruises.
The world's only seagoing paddle steamer is ready to set sail on the Firth of Clyde 50 years after it was preserved.
Gifted to the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society in 1974, the paddle steamer Waverley will be offering its traditional variety of cruises from Ayr Harbour this summer.
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Beginning on Monday, July 7, the summer programme will see excursions to Arran, Ailsa Craig, Rothesay, Tighnabruaich, Millport, Campbeltown and Loch Fyne among other destinations.
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Sailings from Ardrossan, Ayr, Girvan, Largs and Troon are all on the cards and tickets are available now.
A special offer has been laid on for the first voyage of the summer where seniors can bring a friend for free on the sailing from Ayr to Brodick on Monday, July 7.
The cruise from Ayr up to the Kyles of Bute and Loch Fyne the following day will have a similar offer.
For the whole summer, kids sail for just £1.
Paul Semple, general manager, said: 'I am delighted to announce that Waverley is returning to Ayr and with an exciting schedule of sailings in the coming weeks.
'Over the past three seasons we have seen the popularity of Ayr sailings soar with many selling out in advance. The ever-popular trip round Ailsa Craig remains a favourite for many given only Waverley can offer such a cruise from Ayr.
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'To help launch Ayr cruises we have a special offer where Seniors can bring a friend free on Monday, July 7 sailing to Brodick, or join for the full cruise on Tuesday, July 8 when Waverley sails through the stunning Kyles of Bute and up Loch Fyne.
'Kids go for the price of Waverley by sailing for just £1 on all cruises.'
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Captain McCall added: 'Only on Waverley can passengers experience so much of the stunning Clyde coastline in such a unique and nostalgic way.
'Once aboard passengers can savour the sight and sound of a real steamship — hear the telegraph ring, visit the Engine Room, watch the engine in motion, and see the paddles turning through the portholes.
'I look forward to bringing Waverley back to Ayr and seeing so many step aboard to enjoy all the ship has to offer.'
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Built for the London and North Eastern Railway in 1946, the Waverley was operational on the Craigendorran to Lochgoilhead and Arrochar route for almost 30 years before its preservation in 1975.
Since then, the Waverley has been a regular sight on the Ayrshire coastline.
Tickets for all sailings from Ayr, Girvan, Troon and Largs can be booked in advance at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 243 2224. Tickets can also be purchased on board Waverley subject to availability.