Considering a trip ‘doon the watter’ on the nostalgic Paddle Steamer Waverley? The world’s last sea-going paddle steamer is the last seagoing passenger-carrying paddle steamer in the world – you’ll find her on the River Clyde in Scotland.

The physical heritage of the vessel is remarkable thanks to The Paddle Steamer Preservation Society (PSPS) who restored to her 1947 appearance.

Waverley is owned by the Waverley Steam Navigation Company Ltd on behalf of the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society, she now operates passenger journeys.

Owned and operated by railway companies, paddle steamers were once commuter ferries linking village with railways for onward travel.

Paddle Steamers also operated as minesweepers in both World Wars. Waverley is named after, and was built to replace, the previous Waverley who performed a heroic role at Dunkirk in May 1940 before being sunk.

PS Waverley has been magnificently restored with impressive funnels, timber decks, gleaming varnish and brass.

Inside… the Dining Saloon, a period lounge with plenty of character and hot rolls :-).

When you explore the ship you’ll be impressed with the ship’s boiler and mighty engines.

See the engines in action here.

Departing from Glasgow Science Centre our itinerary called in at Greenock, Helensburgh, Dunoon and Rothesay.

Day, afternoon and evening cruises are enjoyed on board the vessel which has a capacity of 800.

Tighnabruaich was supposed to be our final destination but the Captain announced that we wouldn’t reach Tighnaburaich that day due to a maintenance issue. This gave us three hours in Rothesay for some exploring…

Rothesay was good for a wee walk, play and a bite to eat. On our return journey to Glasgow Science Centre, the sun was shining, reflecting on the water and we spotted a seal.

The Waverly Excursion staff were lovely, the atmosphere on board was lively and friendly and we even spotted the lovely Sybil from Fawlty Towers.

Now in its 70th year, Paddle Steamer Waverley has carried more than five million passengers.

Planning guide

Book your trip on the famous Paddle Steamer Waverley with Waverley Excursions.