Waverley will return to South Cornwall and South Devon this summer with the ship set to include Torquay as a calling point for the first time since the 1980s. Waverley will offer cruises in the South West from Thursday 28th August until Monday 1st September with Penzance, Falmouth, Fowey, Plymouth and Dartmouth all set to welcome the famous vessel. The South West timetable is available to view online.
Waverley’s Master, Captain Dominic McCall, commented: “In 2024 we received a fantastic welcome when Waverley visited the South West with tickets selling out as locals and visitors flocked aboard. Sailing Waverley into the picturesque Fowey harbour was special but the highlight for many was meeting Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle on the River Dart, the sight of both paddlers side by side and their steam whistles tooting was memorable for all that were aboard. This year I am delighted to announce that Torquay has been added to the cruise itinerary as we further develop the unique sailings Waverley can offer.”
Carolyn Custerson, CEO of the English Riviera BID Company, said: “We are excited that the iconic Paddle Steamer Waverley will be returning to the English Riviera this summer and berthing in Torquay for the first time in decades. This is fantastic news for our local tourism economy, offering visitors and residents a unique opportunity to escape their everyday and experience a journey on the world’s last sea-going paddle steamer. We look forward to welcoming the Waverley and all her passengers to the English Riviera.”
Waverley will call at Torquay at 12:30pm on Saturday 30th August firstly offering an afternoon cruise along the South Devon Coast viewing Dawlish and Teignmouth before then offering a further sailing at 3:45pm to steam across to Dartmouth to meet Kingswear Castle and steam up the river dart as part of the Dartmouth Royal Regatta event. On Monday 1st September Waverley will sail from Torquay at 12:15pm bound for Weymouth giving passengers the opportunity to enjoy the stunning south coast with views of Lyme Bay, Portland Bill, Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.
Waverley is currently in dry dock for her annual survey, repair works and full repaint. Over the course of this winter more than £1 million has been invested in the ship to keep her operating. The sailing season begins next month and sees her scheduled to visit over 70 ports and piers across the UK.
Tickets for all sailings can be booked online or by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224.
