The Waverly paddle steamer celebrates Golden Jubilee with special sailing
The historic ship is hailed as a symbol of the Clyde
The iconic Paddle Steamer Waverley will commemorate the Golden Jubilee of her preservation with a special sailing today, the highlight being Waverley’s first return to Ardrossan in a decade.
The historic ship will then steam across to Brodick on the Isle of Arran before cruising down the picturesque Arran coastline, offering passengers a unique view of Pladda Lighthouse and sail round Holy Isle.
Waverley, known famously as the World’s last seagoing paddle steamer, has been a symbol of Clyde built shipping heritage since she was gifted for £1 to the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society (PSPS) 50 years ago.
The anniversary sailing will not only mark the ship's celebrated past but also honour the dedicated efforts of the PSPS, whose passion and commitment have kept Waverley steaming for half a century.
In attendance will be Terry Sylvester and Douglas McGowan MBE, who were instrumental in securing Waverley’s future by purchasing her for £1 from the Scottish Transport Group in 1974.
Douglas commented, “The £1 offer to buy Waverley was a surreal moment in my life and felt like a fairytale at the time.
"As an enthusiast in the 70s we deeply wanted Waverley to survive for a few more years, but I could never have dreamt that 50 years later she would still be paddling and giving pleasure to tens of thousands of people around the UK each summer.
"I am absolutely delighted that the ship is now recognised as a ‘National Treasure’ and valued by so many for what she represents, and the unique experience she offers. I look forward to meeting passengers on board for our special sailing on 8th August.”
Passengers can step aboard at Greenock, Dunoon, Greenock, Largs, Ardrossan and Brodick for a cruise down the Arran coastline to Pladda Lighthouse and round Holy Isle.
A new book, Waverley 50 Years of Preservation, has been released to coincide with the milestone anniversary.
It chronicles Waverley’s extraordinary history, from her construction in 1946 in Glasgow to replace war-lost vessels, to her revival as the treasured ship she is today.