One of the icons of Scotland's west coast is the paddle steamer Waverley. From its berth in the Clyde in Glasgow and from other ports like Ayr and Largs it follows in the tradition of generations of Clyde steamships. The Waverley is a common sight in the west coast during the summer season. In past times hundreds of people came Doon the Water on similar steam ships for the Glasgow Fair holidays. They escaped the grime and bustle of industrial Clydeside for a few days on those historic vessels.
The Waverley is Not the First Steam Ship With That Name.
The present Waverley is not the first to bear that name. The original Waverley saw action in both world wars. It came to a sad end while evacuating hundreds of battle weary soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk. Strafed and bombed by enemy aircraft in the English Channel she went down with her guns blazing. The new Waverely was launched in 1946 and it has had a colourful history ever since. Today the boat trips are now ran by Waverly Excursions Ltd.
This Cruise Ship is the Last Ocean Going Paddle Steamer
In the heydays of steam there were many paddle steamers shuttling the masses from Glasgow and Clydeside to Rothesay, Millport and other destination like Arran and Kintyre. Now the distinctive red, white and black tipped funnels alert all to this iconic ship. Whether it is at its berth on the Clyde or cruising to and from any of the west coast ports it is always a majestic moment when the it comes into view. The Waverley is the last of a long line of these ocean going paddle steamers
The Turn of the Century Saw the Paddle Ship Undergo a Complete Rebuild
The Waverley, like several of her predecessors, is named after the historical works of the famous novelist Sir Walter Scott. It was built to the classic designs of the older paddle steamers but still offers first class facilities for passengers. The vessel was totally rebuilt between 1999 and 2003 to comply with more stringent safety requirements. New furniture and upholstery were faithfully reproduced in the original manner. In June 2003 the £7million refit was complete and the Waverley once more took to the seas around Britain.
The Steamer Cruises All Round Britain But the Clyde Is Considered by Many as Her True Home
The Waverley spends part of her season cruising in the waters of the Bristol Channel and off England's south coast. The western seaboard of Scotland though is rightly thought of as the Waverley's home patch. From Glasgow to Ailsa Craig and from Ayr to the Hebrides the ship is really in her element. Going for a cruise on the Waverley is a unique experience. The upper and lower decks offer excellent viewing facilities as the steady thrash of the paddle wheels pull you through idyllic seascapes.
No Trip on the Waverely Would Be Complete Without Viewing the Steam Engines
In the heart of the Waverley is the ship's power house. The engines that power the ship are not locked away in some dingy room. The gleaming machines can be viewed in safety from areas below decks. Watching those huge green cranks rhythmically surging back and forward can be almost hypnotic. The ship offers full dining facilities and a tearoom. The lounge bar offers stronger refreshments and there is often musical entertainment laid on for trippers. Yes, the Waverley has something for everyone.
Dave McFadzean - Based in southwest Scotland I have been a freelance travel writer and photographer for nearly two decades. Building up a strong market for ...
