Today marks a significant maritime milestone, exactly 100 years since the launch of the pioneering turbine steamer TS King George V. Launched on 29th April 1926, the much-loved “KGV” became a familiar and cherished sight on Scotland’s west coast, initially serving Inveraray before becoming a mainstay of Oban-based cruising from 1935. From there, she sailed iconic routes to Mull, Iona, Staffa and Fort William, creating lasting memories for generations of passengers before her withdrawal in 1974.

Now, a century on from her launch, history is set to come full circle. From Tuesday 12th to Tuesday 19th May, the World’s last seagoing paddle steamer, Waverley, returns to Oban to recreate these historic sailings, offering passengers the chance to experience the same breathtaking routes once operated by King George V.

Waverley’s Oban and Inner Hebrides timetable mirrors the golden era of steam travel, with cruises to Mull, Staffa, Iona and Fort William, bringing the spirit of the “KGV” back to life for a new generation.

On Saturday 16th May, passengers can cruise through the Sound of Mull to the picturesque village of Tobermory for time ashore, or sail round to Mull’s west coast, passing Ulva and Little Colonsay before cruising around Staffa to view the dramatic Fingal’s Cave.

On Sunday 17th May, Waverley offers a spectacular sailing via the Sound of Luing to Crinan, passing through the Gulf of Corryvreckan to view the famous whirlpool, Scarba and the Isles of the Sea, before returning to Oban via the Kerrera Sound. That evening, a special cruise will see Waverley steam up Loch Linnhe and through the Corran Narrows to Fort William, where she will anchor and passengers will be tendered ashore.

On Monday 18th May, the steamer cruises through Kerrera Sound and along the Mull coastline to the sacred Isle of Iona, offering time ashore to explore. The grand finale on Tuesday 19th May features a cruise across the Firth of Lorn to Mull and the village of Salen, with the option to visit Tobermory or remain onboard for an extended scenic voyage past Ardnamurchan Lighthouse and mainland Britain’s westernmost point, before viewing the Small Isle of Muck and circumnavigating the Isle of Eigg. Seniors can bring a friend FREE on this final sailing.

This special series of sailings offers not only outstanding coastal scenery but also a rare opportunity to relive a defining chapter of west coast maritime history.

Bookings are now open with tickets available from waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224.