Waverley’s Clyde Spring Weekend
Waverley’s 2018 season got off to a great start with wall to wall sunshine and a warm atmosphere on board as many of the ship’s supporters reconnected after the winter period.
On Saturday 26th May the last sea-going paddler was on her regular summer Saturday sailing to the Kyles of Bute and Tighnabruaich. On Sunday the destination was Arran via Greenock. Rothesay, Largs and Keppel thus including the unusual Rothesay direct from Greenock crossing. However, it was apparent while berthing at Largs that the strong North Easterly wind could prevent the call at Lochranza call. At Keppel Pier her arrival was welcomed by the Millport Pipe Band demonstrating the warm welcome Waverley regularly receives on her visits to Cumbrae.
Some PSPS members have kindly supplied images capturing Waverley over the holiday weekend.
Waverley departs Rothesay on the outward journey on Saturday 26th May.
Waverley runs astern into Rothesay bay before turning and heading for the Kyles of Bute.
Arriving back at Rothesay on the return sailing on Saturday.
Having turned before boarding passengers Waverley awaits her 10am departure from Glasgow on Sunday 27th May.
Waverley’s fan boards for Sunday 27th May.
Waverley makes her approach to Lochranza Pier.
Waverley moves astern from Lochranza after it became clear that wind conditions would prevent her calling on this occasion.
Waverley moves away from Lochranza after making an attempt to berth at the pier.
Waverley heads downriver passing Dunglass Castle Henry Bell’s monument.
Waverley heads further downriver with Dumbarton Rock in view.
Waverley will depart the Clyde and head north to Oban and the Western Isles on Tuesday 29th May for her annual visit. Tickets for all sailings can be booked in advance at Waverley Excursions. She will return to the Clyde on Tuesday 5th June and then begin her main Clyde summer sailings on Friday 22nd June operating through to Sunday 26th August.
The PSPS Scottish Branch’s annual fundraising charter of Waverley will take place on Thursday 5th July. Once again the Scottish Branch has arranged a unique sailing which should attract a good number of passengers. This year the steamer will sail from Blairmore, Greenock and Helensburgh to the Gare Loch and Long Long. Tickets for this cruise are also available from Waverley Excursions on-line or by calling 0141 243 2224.
