Paddle steamer Waverley to make special return to Northern Ireland as ship celebrates its 80th anniversary
Co Down’s coastline will provide a fitting backdrop later this month as the iconic paddle steamer Waverley makes a special visit as part of celebrations marking the vessel's 80th anniversary year.
As part of a nationwide programme of cruises, the historic vessel will make a stop at Warrenpoint on Tuesday, June 23 and Wednesday, June 24, offering passengers a unique day and evening cruise along the Co Down coastline.
Waverley, which was built in Glasgow for the London and North Eastern Railway, was launched in October 1946 and entered service on June 16, 1947.
The vessel was gifted to the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society in 1974 for £1 and it has continued to drive interest as in each of the past three consecutive summer seasons, Waverley has attracted over 150,000 passengers on board the much-loved ship.
A recent independent economic impact assessment put Waverley’s contribution to the UK economy at £11.6 million showing an increase of over 100% on a similar assessment eight years previous.
On Tuesday, June 23, Waverley will offer an evening cruise through Carlingford Lough and along the coast to Kilkeel Bay and Russell's Point, with passengers able to enjoy views of the Mourne Mountains and Cooley Peninsula.
The following day, Waverley will sail from Warrenpoint for a scenic afternoon cruise through Carlingford Lough and Dundrum Bay to St John's Point, passing Kilkeel and Ballykeel Bay and offering coastal views of Co Down.
Onboard Waverley passengers can savour the sight and sound of a real steamship – hear the telegraph ring, visit the engine room and watch the engine start to move and see the paddles turning through the portholes.
Full catering facilities are available throughout all cruises.
David Holmes, Warrenpoint Port CEO, expressed his excitement for the visit of the historic vessel.
He said: “We are delighted to welcome Waverley back to Warrenpoint, offering both local residents and visitors a unique opportunity to experience the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer.
“Events like this not only celebrate our rich maritime heritage but also provide a welcome boost for the local economy, bringing people into the town to enjoy all that Warrenpoint has to offer.”
Waverley's general manager, Paul Semple, said: “Waverley's visit to Warrenpoint this year is particularly special as she continues to steam around the UK coastline eight decades after her launch.
“While the cost of operating a historic ship continues to rise, including a 65% increase in fuel costs this season, Waverley remains very much in operation thanks to the tremendous support we receive from passengers, members, volunteers and supporters across the areas she sails.
“The best way people can help secure Waverley's future is by stepping aboard and enjoying a cruise, helping to ensure she can continue sailing for generations to come.”
Bookings are open with tickets available from waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224.