'Remarkable' world's last seafaring paddle steamer PS Waverley celebrates 80th anniversary

A historic paddle steamer which is the last of its kind to be seafaring is celebrating her 80th anniversary.

PS Waverley reached the milestone today 80 years since first launching in the River Kelvin, Glasgow. The 1940s ship has been entertaining guests in the Solent throughout September taking them on trips from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight.

General manager of Waverley Excursions, Paul Semple, said: “Waverley reaching her 80th anniversary is a remarkable achievement and one that everyone connected with the ship can be incredibly proud of. She was built to serve the Clyde coast and, 80 years later, she continues to give tens of thousands of people the opportunity to experience the joy of travelling by steam.”

PS Waverley celebrated her anniversary by passing through London’s Tower Bridge shortly after 9.30am this morning. She will continue downriver, visiting Gravesend and Southend before undertaking a cruise of the historic Thames Forts.

Waverley was launched at Pointhouse Yard of A&J Inglis in Glasgow on October 2, 1946, by Lady Matthews, wife of the Chairman of the London & North Eastern Railway (LNER).She entered service the following year on 16 June 1947, beginning a remarkable career that would see her become one of the most recognisable historic vessels in the world.

At her launch in Glasgow, Lady Matthews spoke of “the splendour of the Clyde coast scenery”, which she said, “should be viewed from steamers like this.” Among those joining Waverley for her 80th anniversary celebrations today is David Horne, Managing Director of LNER, recognising that Waverley was the last steamer build for the old LNER, who also operated The Flying Scotsman.

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Mr Semple added: “From her early beginnings with LNER to her survival as a working paddle steamer after being gifted for £1 to the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society, Waverley has become much more than a ship. She is a living piece of maritime history and a much-loved part of our national heritage.”

“It is particularly special to be celebrating her 80th anniversary here in London, sailing through Tower Bridge, while also looking ahead to returning home to the Clyde for the final sailings of our anniversary season.”

PS Waverley is expected to return to the Solent next year, having been a regular fixture in the region in recent years. More details can be found on the ship’s website.