Waverley’s first cruise of the 2017 was blessed with high passenger numbers, wall to wall sunshine and the highest recorded temperatures of the year so far. The 2017 season is her 43rd operating in preservation and this season will also mark 70 years since the steamers maiden voyage on Monday 16th June 1947. Over the winter period much work has been undertaken to ensure that she is looking smart. Thanks to the Scottish Branch of the PSPS funding was provided for repairs to be carried out to the flooring in the lounges and dining saloon. Much of the wood work on board has also received attention with the engine room alleyway decking having been stripped back and re-varnished. Thanks to support from BAE Systems the wooden deck seats on the upper deck have also been stripped, sanded and re-varnished.

Unfortunately the first cruise of the new season didn’t go exactly as planned since the call at Dunoon was cancelled due to a small technical issue which has now been resolved. The following pictures highlight the excellent conditions experienced during her first sailing of 2017.

For full details of all of Waverley’s sailing this year visit www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk

Waverley at her Glasgow berth before boarding commences to start a new season. One of the funnels of Queen Mary is clearly visible in the background. Gordon Wilson

Wall to wall sunshine as Waverley heads for Largs.Kieran McAllister

Bow view.Kieran McAllister

Bunting up to mark the first day of a special season.Kieran McAllister

Waverley berthed at Largs in the afternoon sun.Gordon Wilson

It has now been confirmed that the Scottish Branch will once again be chartering Waverley to raise funds to support her continued preservation on Wednesday 19th July for an evening cruise from Largs and Keppel round Bute. This will be her only advertised sailing round Bute this season and should once again prove popular. Waverley will depart Largs at 1900 and Keppel at 1920, returning to Keppel at 2205 and Largs at 2225.