The Paddle Steamer Waverley will have extra cruises from a number of locations in 2025. The sailing itinerary for the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer will be returning to Clevedon, Bideford, Ilfracombe, Minehead, Portishead and Weston-super-Mare from Monday, June 2 to Wednesday June 25 offering a variety of cruises.
The programme has been made to make sure as many locals and visitors as possible have they chance to step aboard. Three of the trips on this year’s itinerary are to the emote Lundy Island, where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic allowing passengers time to step ashore and explore the island.
The number of evening cruises on offer has been increased in 2025 with the opportunity to support Clevedon Pier with a special sailing on Friday, June 6.
Waverley’s master Captain Dominic McCall said “We have developed the best possible sailing programme for the Bristol Channel to ensure that as many locals and visitors as possible have the opportunity to step aboard Waverley and enjoy a traditional pleasure steamer excursion. I am delighted that we are able to sail Waverley from over a dozen locations on the Bristol Channel and around South West Wales.
“We have also increased the number of coach pick up locations to connect with Waverley’s sailings with Gloucester and Bath in addition to Bristol now on the itinerary. I particularly enjoy cruising the Bristol Channel coastline with its stunning seascapes and look forward to bringing Waverley back this year and welcoming passengers aboard for a great day out.”
In celebration of Railway 200, the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, Waverley will connect with three steam railways – the West Somerset, the Brecon Mountain and Lynton & Barnstable railways giving passengers the “ultimate steam day out” by taking a paddle steamer and steam train trip.
On Monday, June 9 there will be a unique evening cruise up the River Severn and under the bridges with passengers able to join at Clevedon or Portishead. On Tuesday, June 10, Waverley offers an evening trip from Weston-super-Mare viewing Birnbeck Island and the Holm Islands.
Then on Friday, June 20, there will be an evening cruise from Clevedon round the Holms takes place in support of the Motor Vessel Balmoral currently undergoing restoration work in Bristol on Friday, June 20. Once aboard Waverley passengers can savour the sight and sound of a real steamship – hear the telegraph ring, visit the Engine Room and watch the engine start to move and see the paddles turning through the portholes.
With full catering facilities available throughout all cruises- passengers can enjoy a hot or cold snack, tea and cake in the afternoon, a hot meal in the Dining Saloon or a refreshment in one of the period lounges, as well as a visit to the Souvenir Shop to take home an exclusive gift or memento of their trip on this famous and much-loved ship.
Waverley is currently berthed in Glasgow undergoing annual maintenance and refurbishment works costing around £1 million. 2025 marks the 50th Anniversary of Waverley sailing in preservation.
Bookings are now open with tickets available here or by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224.