Waverley, the last seagoing paddle steamer
The Waverley, the last seagoing paddle steamer, celebrated its 78th anniversary, offering special voyages until October 13, 2024, with many sailings fully booked and various hospitality options available.
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The Waverley, the world's last seagoing paddle steamer, celebrated its 78th anniversary on October 2, 2024. Built in Glasgow and launched in 1946, it has a rich history of ferrying passengers along the Clyde and now operates as a pleasure steamer along the British coast. Recently, it offered a special one-pound voyage from Gravesend to Tower Bridge due to a timetable disruption, attracting a couple of hundred passengers. The ship features various hospitality options, including a dining saloon and a bar, and showcases a 2100 horsepower steam engine in its engine room. While the Thames estuary lacks the scenic beauty of the Scottish lochs, the cruise offers views of industrial shorelines and landmarks like the Thames Flood Barrier and Tower Bridge. The Waverley will continue its Thames excursions until October 13, 2024, with several sailings already fully booked.
- Waverley is the last seagoing paddle steamer in the world.
- It was launched on October 2, 1946, and has been preserved by the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society since 1974.
- A special one-pound voyage from Gravesend to Tower Bridge attracted hundreds of passengers.
- The ship features various dining options and an open engine room for public viewing.
- Waverley will operate on the Thames until October 13, 2024, with many sailings fully booked.
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- Many commenters share personal experiences and fond memories of riding the Waverley, highlighting its significance in their lives.
- There is admiration for the Waverley's engineering, with mentions of its traditional piston engine and the opportunity to view it in action.
- Some users discuss the Waverley's recent voyages and popularity, noting that many trips are fully booked.
- Questions arise about the historical choice of paddle propulsion over screw propulsion, indicating curiosity about maritime engineering.
- Several comments include links to videos and additional resources, showcasing a community engaged in sharing information about the Waverley.
10 commentsAdd: first hit on youtube is nice https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3okBYfi2lg
I heard about Waverley when I visited the Maid of the Loch https://www.maidoftheloch.org/ which is a paddle steamer that they are currently repairing at Loch Lomond where it used to do trips.
Had an impression on me when I first went on it and still does whenever I see it.
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