The official launch of the £2.3m ‘Save the Waverley – Boiler Refit Appeal’ took place at Waverley’s Glasgow berth at noon on Saturday 15th June. The heavy rain showers earlier in the day did not dampen the enthusiasm of the 300 plus crowd that included politicians, mariners, enthusiasts and the general public, all showing support for the famous paddle steamer. Prior to the official launch over £100,000 has been donated to the appeal but the Waverley Excursions press release does not play down the magnitude of the challenge that lies ahead;

 
[paper]”We’re heartened by the support so far — it’s clear that huge numbers of people around Britain and around the world want to see Waverley sail again” said Paul Semple, who heads the team which operates the ship. “But the financial challenge which faces Waverley remains very significant, and we urgently need more funds to let us place the orders and then carry out the work over the next nine months.

The sheer scale of what is required has been likened to a kind of marine ‘open heart surgery’. The iconic red, white and black twin funnels will be lifted off, and large sections of decking removed to allow the boilers and other equipment to be lifted out. The replacements are expected to extend Waverley’s operational life by a further 20 to 25 years. The Waverley company has taken recent weeks to make a detailed and costed plan, and now it’s all about raising the funds to make it happen. “There’s a real determination not to allow Waverley to become a static relic. She was built to sail, and that’s what so many people want to see again. Waverley’s truly unique status as the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer mustn’t be taken for granted. Not for the first time, the future of the ship hangs in the balance. Once again, it’s time to save the Waverley.”[/paper]

 
Find out how you can help by downloading the ‘Save the Waverley – Boiler Refit Appeal’ flyer below.
 

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An enthusiastic crowd ‘Wave for Waverley’.Graeme Phanco

Waverley Excursions General Manager Paul Semple (left), Captain David Howie and Waverley Excursions Chairman Cameron Marshall.Graeme Phanco

MSPs Jackie Baillie and Neil Bibby flank General Manager Paul Semple and Captain David Howie.Graeme Phanco

Paul Semple being interviewed by the BBC.Graeme Phanco

Gordon Wilson of the PSPS (left) presenting a cheque for £20,000 to Waverley Excursions Finance Director Derek Peters.Graeme Phanco

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