The world’s last seagoing passenger carrying paddle steamer will be back at Clacton Pier this year after a record 2024 season.
Waverley, which was built in 1947, is currently undergoing a £1million refit in Scotland ready for a busy programme ahead.
It will be docking at the pier a number of times in September and October and tickets are likely to sell out fast.
Tim Wardley, Waverley’s piers liaison officer said: “We are indebted to Clacton Pier and the residents and visitors of Clacton for their wonderful support, without which the viability of bringing Waverley to the Thames and East Coast would be severely compromised.
“In 2025 Waverley will return to Clacton once again, and while the cruise schedule is still being put together I can confirm there will be a good number of cruises from Clacton for passengers to enjoy.
“These will include the very popular trip to London, steaming through Tower Bridge, the Sixties cruise to view Radio Caroline ship Ross Revenge on the River Blackwater, and a few surprise cruises too!
“We look forward to visiting the town later in the year, and extend our thanks to the pier owners, staff and all our passengers for their unstinting support for the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer, where a warm welcome awaits for a great day out.”
Last year Waverley completed almost 158,000 passenger journeys over 125 days which was its most ever.
More than one million litres of fuel oil were consumed to create steam. The engine and paddle wheels turned almost three million times in service. A total of 25,000 cups of tea and 10,000 fish and chip meals were served in the dining salon.
Nigel Brown, the pier’s communications manager, said it is fantastic that the Waverley is still cruising and will be back in Clacton again.
“We hope the refit goes to plan and that the weather conditions are right later this year so people can make the most of the trips picking up from our berthing arm,” he added.
“It is a magnificent sight to see her coming in to dock and leaving again full of passengers and fingers crossed it will continue for years to come. Paddle steamers are an important part of the pier’s history and the reason why it was originally built in 1871.”
Mr Brown said that as soon as Waverley’s cruises and dates are agreed they will be announced, as will when and how to book the trips.
