February 5, 2024

A popular iconic ship will be returning to Clacton later this year with a number of exciting new trips in the pipeline.

Waverley, the world’s last seagoing passenger carrying paddle steamer, will be docking regularly over a three week period as part of its Thames and East Coast cruising programme.

It will be calling at Clacton Pier’s berthing arm for excursions which could include the Steam Parade to the Thames Forts, a Pirate Radio day, and a special cruise to the Principality of Sealand – the world’s smallest independent state.

A further trip currently being considered is a meet up with Ross Revenge on the River Blackwater to celebrate the 60^th anniversary of Radio Caroline.

These are on top of the normal favourite cruises from Clacton to London where Tower Bridge opens up for Waverley to pass through.

Tim Wardley, a spokesman for the charity-owned vessel, said that a final timetable is being drawn up and exact dates will be released soon.

“The programme will incorporate trips from Clacton on various days from the last week of September through to October 13,” he added.

“Last year most of the cruises were sold out and we always get a terrific response for our Thames and East Coast dates.

“We are extremely grateful for the support we receive from residents and visitors who book up, as well as the team at Clacton Pier that help make these Waverley trips possible.”

Waverley, which was built on the River Clyde in 1947,  returned to the pier in 2022 after an absence of four years due to the pandemic and staffing issues.

Last year the trust that runs the ship launched a successful appeal which brought in £168,000 to pay for dry dock costs including an annual inspection, repainting and steel renewals which kept it operating.

Nigel Brown, Clacton Pier communications manager, said that Waverley always pulls in a large crowd when it docks at the attraction.

“It is a huge draw for those who just want to come and see her and take photos – as well as passengers boarding for their cruise,” he added.

“She is a fantastic sight which takes us back to the first days of the pier in the 1870’s when it was built to accommodate paddle steamers bringing passengers and goods to the town.

“We are delighted to play our part in this annual attraction by maintaining the berthing arm and providing the services Waverley requires to continue to run her popular trips.”

Once the timetable is released people will be able to make bookings.

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PHOTO BY KEVIN JAY