We’re delighted to announce that Waverley’s 75th Anniversary Appeal has now raised over £60,000 thanks to the continued support of many loyal supporters and members of the public. The Appeal is aiming to raise £150,000 to help cover part of the £450,000 which will be spent directly on Waverley to prepare her for the 2022 season.
Over £100,000 has already been spent on the ship since she completed her 2021 sailing season last September, but the rate of spending will now step up with an increasing list of tasks to complete ahead of dry docking in late April.
Waverley’s General Manager, Paul Semple, said “Maintaining Waverley in seagoing condition is very costly and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone that has donated to our current appeal. To have raised over £60,000 in just two months is fantastic, but we do need further support to afford all the necessary works which must be completed before Waverley steams again.”
Much of the work carried out on Waverley to date hasn’t been visible to passers-by. Up until now Waverley’s engineers have been focused on the main engine, but shortly their attention will turn to other equipment including the capstan (rear steam winch). In the past few days a large area of decking timbers on the forward promenade deck has been lifted, this will soon be replaced with new timber. Thanks to our volunteers’ work has progressed well in sanding and stripping many of the wooden deck seats. A task that can feel like it will never end!
As work steps up so too will costs, currently we still need to raise an additional £90,000 from individuals. Donations would therefore be very gratefully received – every pound makes a real difference in getting Waverley steaming again this coming summer.
You can donate online at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or call our office on 0141 243 2224. Everyone who donates £75 or more will receive a unique Waverley coaster as a token of thanks. All donations small or large will be most welcome. If you can Gift Aid your donation this will add 25p to every £1 donated.
You can further support Waverley by purchasing items from our online shop. The newly published Jeanie Deans book has been selling well, all monies from the sale of this book go directly towards Waverley. We have limited copies of our 2022 Calendar available, now at the discount price of just £6. Visit the shop at waverleyexcursions.co.uk/shop/
