The legendary paddle steamer Waverley, recognized as the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer, officially launched its 2026 season on May 8 from Glasgow as part of celebrations marking the vessel’s 80th anniversary.
Originally launched on the River Clyde in 1946, the historic ship returned to service this year with crowds gathering along the waterfront to witness the beginning of its special anniversary season.
Throughout 2026, Waverley will operate an extensive cruise program around the UK coastline. Destinations include the Clyde Coast, Inner Hebrides, South Cornwall, South Devon, the Bristol Channel, South Wales, England’s South Coast, the Isle of Wight, North Wales, Mersey, and the Thames Estuary.
Thousands of passengers are expected to travel aboard the iconic vessel during the anniversary season, experiencing one of Britain’s most famous maritime heritage attractions.
Speaking at the start of the season, Waverley Excursions General Manager Paul Semple highlighted the importance of the milestone as the vessel returns to operation eight decades after first entering service.
He also noted that passengers can continue to enjoy the authentic sights and sounds of traditional steamship travel following a major winter refit worth approximately £1.5 million.
Waverley was originally built in Glasgow for the London and North Eastern Railway and was launched on October 2, 1946, before entering service in June 1947.
Today, the vessel is owned by Waverley Steam Navigation Company and operates on a non-profit basis. Since entering preservation in 1975, Waverley has carried more than six million passengers while maintaining its original 1940s appearance and continuing to sail around the United Kingdom.
