‘ Urgent’ appeal launched for historic paddle steamer
APUBLIC appeal has been launched to “urgently” raise funds for the historic paddle steamer Waverley. Waverley, which was built in Glasgow and is the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer, offers excursions from around the UK, including some which depart from the city’s River Clyde and take guests around the west coast of Scotland.
Last year, it carried more than 100,000 passengers with sailings in Scotland, on the south coast and up the River Thames to London.
However, operating costs have soared which has resulted in a lack of funds to survive the winter maintenance period.
Money is now being raised to afford dry dock fees and re- commissioning costs to allow the boat to sail in 2023.
Paul Semple, Waverley’s general manager, said: “Waverley must be taken out of the water and dry docked annually before her sailing season begins.
“She is now booked to dry dock in late March and then re- enter service in May. Due to increased operating costs last season, we don’t have enough money to afford this year’s dry dock and the numerous other costs we incur in the weeks before Waverley starts sailing.
“Last year our fuel costs increased by over 60% or in real terms by over £ 300,000.
“This is a cost which the owning charity hasn’t been able to withstand. We urgently need to raise funds or we simply can’t afford the start- up costs for his coming summer season.”
Now, the Dry Dock 2023 appeal has been launched with a target of £ 180,000. So far, more than £ 35,000 has been raised.
Paul said: “Operating a historic steamship like Waverley is inherently expensive.
“We are now spending over £ 600,000 a year just to maintain her in operating condition.
“Spare parts for a paddle steamer are rarely ‘ off the shelf’ and come at considerable cost. Dry docking the ship is the single largest expense of the winter maintenance work and as things are we can’t afford to dock her.
“We are asking for help from anyone who wishes to see Waverley sail again this summer to support our appeal.”
Donations to the Dry Dock 2023 appeal can be made online at waverleyexcursions. co. uk or by calling 0141 243 2224.
Those who donate by March 1 will be entered into a draw to be selected for the unique opportunity to visit Waverley and see her out of the water in dry dock.