Waverley’s 2024 in Pictures – 77 Images Capturing her 77th Year
For 2024 Waverley was given the prestigious title of Flagship of the Year by National Historic Ships UK in recognition of her ambitious sailing programme. Throughout the season Waverley flew a special Flagship Pennant above the bridge to denote her national status and received an engraved brass plaque which is on display in the Dinning Saloon.
159,572 passenger journeys were recorded across 125 days in service giving an average passenger journeys per day figure of 1,276, a very slight increase on the 2023 average of 1,269. There were a total of 13 days cancelled with 2 of those lost due to weather and 11 due to technical issues (forward steam winch and starboard paddle wheel). Ticket revenue exceeded £3.4m with catering and shop sales taking the total revenue to over £4.8m.
To give a few examples of costs: there were fuel and crew costs exceeding £1.4m with over £230,000 spent on marketing, £313,000 on berthing and pilotage, and £231,000 on coaches. In addition there were shore and insurance costs of just under £600,000.
In 2024 Waverley made several ‘first ever’ visits which included Ullapool, Seacombe, Fowey and Dartmouth. The steamer returned to several ports and piers not visited for many years including Fort William (by tender), Penzance, Falmouth, Plymouth and Eastbourne. Unfortunately it had been planned that Waverley would return to Folkestone but this was not possible due to poor sea conditions on the day, Folkestone is planned again in 2025.
Waverley’s return to the South West was a particular highlight of the season with many passengers experiencing the unique experience of a travelling on a seagoing paddle steamer for the first time. The meeting of Waverley and Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle on the river Dart drew much media attention in addition to the thousands who watched the two steamers from the shore as they each tooted to the other signalling their first ever time together on the Dart.
Overall 2024 was another highly successful season for Waverley further cementing her popularity in all areas visited. Demand for tickets resulted in several “sold out” sailings, aided by several special events and sailings such as meeting Steam Tug Challenge at the Thames Forts.
Waverley operated in service until Tuesday 25th October with her final two days being on a filming charter. As the year ended work on the winter refit was well advanced with over £1million expected to be required to prepare for 2025.
2025 will mark the 50th anniversary since Waverley’s first sailing in preservation back in 1975. Timetables for 2025 will be released area-by-area from mid-February with bookings opening as timetables are published. Check out the Waverley Excursions website to register for the e-newsletters and be the first to hear when timetables are released.
Waverley berthed in Glasgow in early 2024 with her port bridgewing missing due to work underway to replace a large amount of the timber decking.
An image which illustrates the extent of deck renewal that was required on the port bridgewing. The bridge to engine room telegraph was also removed to enable decking to be replaced. The docking telegraph which gives orders to deck crew at the steam winches remained in situ under the red cover.
Ongoing refurbishment of crew and passenger spaces are required each winter. In this image the aft deck shelter tearoom space is seen stripped out prior to new flooring being fitted.
One of the catering crew cabins during a part refurbishment in March 2024. The desk and sink areas were re-laminated (removed in this image), hull sides reinsulated, and carpets, bedding and mattresses were all replaced. In addition the crew showers were also refurbished.
The fascia name boards were removed and refurbished by a volunteer prior to the 2024 season. This image shows two of the three parts which make up one side. The bench seating was stripped and revarnished by volunteers.
Given the expanding range of calling points and cruise options over 60 new fan boards were required. This image shows a few of the new boards produced by a volunteer.
The crossover pipe (large copper pipe) from the MP to LP cylinder required some repairs last winter. This image shows the pipe back in situ prior to being insulated under the engine room platform. New insulation was installed on the main engine in addition to new ventilation fans installed in the boiler room.
Waverley’s first move of 2024 saw her being turned at Glasgow prior to sailing down the river to Greenock for dry docking. The small work boat (Push Owl) is the second vessel of the fleet given it is also owned by Waverley Steam Navigation Co. Ltd.
In dry dock several sections of wooden belting were replaced on both paddleboxes. This image shows a section of belting removed on the port side. Belting repair works carried out in dry dock cost over £40,000 in 2024.
Waverley’s hull looks fantastic prior to being refloated after dry dock work was completed. Dry docking in 2024 cost over £230,000.
Waverley moves astern from Helensburgh Pier in May 2024. Prior to returning to Glasgow after sea trails Waverley made two unannounced approaches to Helensburgh Pier. This allowed data to be gathered on the depth of water around the pier. Waverley returned to Helensburgh Pier for a sail past in August 2024.
Day 1 of the 2024 season saw over 700 passengers sailing from Glasgow including school children who had won a Waverley Competition. This image shows school children disembarking at Greenock. The opening weekend of Clyde sailings in 2024 saw over 4,800 passenger journeys recorded in just 3 days.
Waverley berthed at Ullapool for the first time on 22nd May 2024. Thanks to the ambition of Ullapool’s Harbour Master and Waverley’s Master Waverley reached the Highland port and attracted a capacity crowd for the sailing back to Gairloch.
Waverley adds to the colourful scene while berthed at Tobermory Pier on the Isle of Mull having undertaken a cruise round the south of the island.
An evening view looking over Oban Bay with Waverley berthed at the North Pier as CalMac vessels go about their business.
Waverley at anchor off Fort William on the morning of Monday 27th May. In 2024 Waverley returned to Fort William for the first time in a decade by way of anchoring off the Town’s Pier. Passengers disembarked and boarded Waverley by means of small boat tender which was kindly provided by Cruise Loch Linnhe.
Cruise Loch Linnhe vessel Elsie at Fort William Town Pier as passengers for Waverley board.
Elsie berthed against Waverley’s paddlebox to allow passengers to transfer to Waverley.
Waverley looks at home in magnificent surroundings as she returns to Coll having offered a short afternoon cruise on Monday 27th May.
Following the Oban & Inner Hebrides sailings in late May Waverley set course for southern waters. After offering two sailings from Warrenpoint in Northern Ireland she proceeded overnight to Fishguard. Unfortunately sea conditions were rough and the cruise from Fishguard (her first since the early 90s) had to be cancelled. This image shows her alongside at Fishguard where she took fuel before proceeding to the Bristol Channel. It is planned that she will include Fishguard in 2025.
In 2024 Waverley made her way up the River Torridge to berth at Bideford for the first time since the early 1980s. The view from the bridge shows Waverley about to pass under the A39 road bridge over the Torridge.
Passengers board at Bideford with many onlookers. Bideford allowed an opportunity for a small top up of fuel – note the fuel tanker on the quayside. Arranging fuel on the Bristol Channel does present a challenge since the ship holds a maximum of three working days fuel capacity. Given many nights are at anchor on the Channel arranging bunkers can be difficult.
Waverley approaching Penarth Pier. Penarth is a vital calling point on the Bristol Channel given it close proximity to Cardiff. Like most berths on the Channel access to the pier is tidal since it dries out at low water.
Waverley alongside Portishead. This area is barely recognisable from what it was in the early 2000s. Portishead has proved a worthwhile boarding point for cruises up the Severn and to Ilfracombe.
Waverley berthed at Ilfracombe Pier with Verity looking over proceedings. Ilfracombe remained a popular destination in 2024 as it did for many back in Victorian times.
Another view of Waverley at Ilfracombe Pier as she casts her shadow on the water. In this image she is on the east face berth which is used over low water. The other berth in the picture to the right of Waverley’s bow is known as the Stone Bench which is used at higher states of tide.
Waverley berthed at Knightstone Harbour in Weston-Super-Mare. Weston is only accessible over high water on some tides but is a popular boarding point and therefore included in the timetable whenever possible.
Waverley at Tenby. In 2024 she offered an evening cruise from Tenby along the Gower Coast to Swansea.
The 2024 crew took time for a moment ashore in Tenby for a quick group photograph.
Waverley and her crew often work well into the night after passengers have disembarked such is the operation of a seagoing vessel, particularly on the Bristol Channel where docks can only be accessed at certain states of tide. This image shows the ship entering Cardiff Docks where she can take fuel and stores.
Berthed in Swansea Docks. Like other ports in South Wales Swansea is operated by ABP and is a useful port to refuel and restore the ship.
During the last few days on the Bristol Channel the windlass required repairs and was removed from its bedplate. Unfortunately this resulted in two sailings being cancelled while repairs were carried out.
Waverley gets a push from a Svitzer tug on her cruise up the River Cleddau from Milford Haven. Given Waverley’s manoeuvring characteristics work boats and tugs are increasingly used to allow her to access ports and locations which would not be possible without assistance.
Alongside at Holyhead prior to departure for Llandudno. 2024 saw Waverley’s first sailing from the North Wales port since the late 1990s.
Waverley looks magnificent as she is captured approaching Llandudno pier during her short visit to North Wales in June 2024.
Waverley arriving at Llandudno Pier in perfect conditions having sailed round the North Anglesey Coast from Holyhead.
The official handover of the Flagship of the Year pennant. Waverley’s Marketing Manager, Samuel Brown (left), led the application to National Historic Ships UK for her to be awarded the prestigious title. Paul Jeffery (right) represented National Historic Ships UK in handing over the flag to some of the ship’s officers.
Waverley steams past Great Orme Head on her approach to Llandudno.
In 2024 Waverley used Seacombe Landing Stage for the first time thanks to Mersey Ferries. This was required since the landing stage in Liverpool wasn’t available. Given the very favourable loadings it is hoped she will return in 2025. In this image Waverley is seen sharing the landing stage with the Mersey Ferry Snowdrop painted in the “Everybody Razzle Dazzle” design.
It was not planned that Waverley would visit Belfast in 2024 but owing to a lack of fuel supplier in Liverpool the ship made a brief visit to refuel on passage from the Mersey back to the Clyde in June. It is hoped that Belfast can feature in a future timetable allowing a cruise to be offered from the city.
Captain Dominic McCall and Waverley’s deck crew take a moment for a picture at Girvan Harbour on one of the rare good weather days during the main Clyde summer season. Ailsa Craig can be seen in the distance and remains a popular afternoon cruise option.
Waverley leaves Ailsa Craig to her stern having circumnavigated the island.
A capacity crowd boards at Ayr Harbour for an afternoon cruise to Brodick and round Holy Isle. Ayr loadings have improved in recent years and the ambition remains to continue to offer the town a variety of sailings during the main summer season.
A crane loads the repaired windlass back aboard in late July after being removed for a second time in just over a month. This image was taken at 11pm such was the effort to return the ship to service as soon as possible after missing 5 days while the windlass was sent away for special welding repairs.
An emergency drill exercise involving the coastguard is captured as Waverley steams down the Cowal coast with passengers looking on with interest.
Passengers start to board Waverley as a piper plays on a private hire sailing to Story Scotland who were marking their 10th Anniversary with an evening cruise “Doon the Watter”. In 2024 Waverley undertook several charter sailings helping to raise funds for charitable causes in addition to creating a unique way to mark a special anniversary.
Waverley berthed at Tighnabruaich Pier with the Kyles of Bute and Narrows in view. Tighnabruaich remains a popular destination from Glasgow each Saturday during July and August. The local Pier Association remains active in helping to maintain the pier allowing Waverley to call.
Terry Sylvester (left) and Douglas McGowan MBE (right) pose with a £1 note and the Waverley Steam Navigation Co. Ltd houseflag on 8th August – 50 years on since they handed over the £1 note that purchased Waverley.
Douglas McGowan MBE talks to passengers at the book signing on board the ship on 8th August. The new book titled “Waverley 50 Years of Preservation” was published to mark the 50th Anniversary since Waverley was gifted for £1. The book was compiled by PSPS Scottish Branch Committee Member Iain Quinn who is pictured signing copies alongside a model of Waverley in her 1973 CalMac colours.
Several key players in Waverley’s initial preservation in 1974 / 1975 captured on board on 8th August 2024. Left to Right – Terry Sylvester was Chairman of Waverley Steam Navigation Co. Ltd (WSN) from when the Company was named until the early 2000s, Terry was Commercial Director for over 20 seasons and led the marketing efforts over that period. John Beveridge MBE helped convince the PSPS to accept CalMac’s offer to purchase the ship for £1, John is a current WSN Director. Douglas McGowan MBE who paired with Terry in striving for operational preservation following the famous £1 handover, Douglas served as a Director for many years and is current PSPS President . Ken Blacklock was 2nd Engineer in 1975 before then going on to serve as Chief Engineer for several seasons, Ken is current Superintendent and plays a key role in winter refit work. Peter Reid was Company Secretary in forming WSN and served as Financial Director for over 20 years, he has been a WSN Director since 1974. David Muir was WSN’s first employee as a watchman following the transfer of ownership of Waverley to WSN and has served in the engine room over a 50 year period as Fireman.
To raise the profile of efforts to repair and return Helensburgh Pier as a calling point Waverley performed a sail past in August which attracted well over 600 locals on to the pier. It is the intention of the newly formed Helensburgh Pier Company to lease the pier long term from the local authority and raise funds to repair the pier allowing Waverley to return.
Waverley steams into Penzance prior to offering a sold out cruise to view Land’s End. It is intended that she will return to the South West in 2025 given the outstanding success of the 2024 visit.
Waverley berthed in Falmouth Docks. Falmouth was a suitable base for the first few days in the South West programme given fuel and stores could be delivered direct to the ship.
Waverley makes a grand entrance to Fowey Harbour as the expectant crowd look on.
Waverley moored in Fowey Harbour. This was her first visit to the picturesque harbour and the first call by a paddle steamer since the 1930s.
Waverley passes under the Royal Albert Bridge which carries the railway across the River Tamar west of Plymouth.
Waverley and Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle steam up the River Dart during the Dartmouth Royal Regatta with thousands watching from the shore. The meeting of the only two operational paddle steamers in the UK on the Dart attracted widespread media coverage and showcased the efforts and achievements of the PSPS in safeguarding the operational future of both vessels.
Waverley sounds her whistle as she acknowledges Kingswear Castle as the two paddlers meet for the first time on the River Dart.
Waverley’s passengers had an excellent viewing platform to witness and hear the fireworks.
Berthed in Plymouth at the pontoon landing stage. All sailings from Plymouth sold out in advance such was the level of interest and subsequent demand.
While on the South Coast Year 7 pupils from Hoe Bridge School in Woking sailed on the ship. The pupils had undertaken a project on Waverley within the Art & Design & Technology Department. Pupils made models of Waverley (pictured) which were then tested in the school pond.
One of the highly successful returns in 2024 was Waverley sailing from Eastbourne Pier. On 12th September Waverley offered two cruises from the East Sussex resort resulting in over 1,000 passengers stepping aboard. The return was made possible thanks to the pier owner undertaking work on the landing stage.
Waverley departs Southampton with Queen Mary 2 in view astern. Waverley passengers will frequently witness cruise ships in the busy port.
The 2024 South Coast programme was badly impacted when both Yarmouth and Ryde piers on the Isle of Wight became unavailable due to works required. Separately Waverley had to change her Portsmouth berth to the International Terminal for the final week of sailings in the area. This image shows the Waverley logo displayed (the largest it has ever been!) within Portsmouth International Terminal. Passengers boarding at the terminal were subject to security checks in the same way as passengers boarding a cross channel ferry.
On the evening of 25th September while making her way from Portsmouth to Ipswich with just crew aboard damage was sustained to the starboard paddle wheel. This resulted in a radius rod breaking and twisting. This images shows part of the damage to the radius rod and paddle arm. Waverley returned to Portsmouth where repairs were carried out, unfortunately she missed the first three sailings of her Thames programme.
Waverley captured as her whistle signals her passing under Tower Bridge at the start of a cruise from London to Gravesend, Southend and the Thames Forts. The video from this occasion was shared by the BBC and was viewed by several hundred thousand.
An evening cruise up the “Twinkling Thames to pass under a floodlit Tower Bridge” is a must for any Waverley supporter. The experience of hearing Waverley’s whistle echo under the bascules of Tower Bridge lit up at night is very memorable.
As Waverley berthed at Kilcreggan on her penultimate cruise of 2024 the pier had been renamed Stromness in readiness for the film charter where Waverley was used as a ferry sailing between Stromness and Scrabster in the 1970s.
Complete with various props and equipment Waverley undertook two days of film work on 21st and 22nd October prior to being laid up for winter.
During the filming charter some props were added internally. This shows a poster promoting the Orkney Islands, temporarily covering the Clyde Coast map.
A four legged Waverley friend shows off a pet bandana on the quay with Captain McCall looking on.
Retail sales both in the catering outlets and Souvenir Shop help keep Waverley sailing. New products are regularly introduced to drive sales and increase revenue for the ship. In 2024 a Waverley Ale was sold on board and this proved very popular.
For the majority of the 2024 season Waverley flew a defaced red ensign at her stern given her status as a vessel registered on the National Historic Fleet.
For the 2024 season a series of artwork depicting Waverley in various locations was produced in the style of classic travel posters. This proved very popular with enthusiasts and the general public. Further art works will be produced for the 2025 season.
Waverley’s shore team and some Directors attended the Glasgow Business Awards 2024 in early October where Waverley Excursions was announced winner as Glasgow’s Favourite Business. The category Waverley won was the only category open to the public vote.
As the end of 2024 approached work was well underway to replace the boiler burners on both of Waverley’s boilers. This is necessary since the company which produced the burners in 2020 is no longer making spare parts. The cost of replacing the burners is £300,000.
Just a few days before Christmas and Waverley is captured at her Glasgow berth. In just 3 months time much of the winter work will be completed and Waverley will depart Glasgow for Greenock where she will undergo her annual dry docking. It is expected that the total cost of the current winter refit including dry docking in April 2025 will easily exceed £1 million.
It is gratefully acknowledged that the images in this post have kindly been supplied by many individuals including several crew members, PSPS members and supporters.
You can support Waverley by joining the PSPS where you will receive a Half Price Voucher and a copy of Paddle Wheels magazine every three months. PSPS members can also access Waverley discount tickets. Join online today.
