PS Waverley gets ready for summer sailings
Paddle steamer Waverley, which has endured a tumultuous year, beset with expensive repairs and other difficulties, has emerged from dry dock, passed its sea trials and is now being prepared for the 2021 sailing season.
Following Waverley’s £2.3m boiler refit between January and August last year, and the cancellation of sailings owing to Covid, Waverley spent three weeks in dry dock in Greenock where six paddles were renewed, steel work was replaced in the paddlebox, the bow was repaired, and her hull was repainted.
After leaving dry dock, Waverley undertook sea trials to test the main engine. This allowed engineers to make an assessment on any further maintenance work required before she starts operating next month. The trials went well and a top speed of more than 17 knots was achieved.
Over the next three weeks, operators will conclude annual survey work before the crew join with the hope of starting passenger sailings for the 2021 season around the third week in June on the Clyde. Current Covid regulations mean capacity will be restricted to just 35 per cent to ensure appropriate physical distancing.
A spokesperson from Waverley Excursions said: ‘We are delighted to report £350,000 has been raised from individuals towards Waverley’s Covid-19 Relief Appeal. We send our sincere thanks to everyone who donated. A staggering 2,700 donations have been received with many opting to have their name on our virtual donor wall. We have only been able to undertake the refit work this past winter thanks to the generosity of so many.
‘We are actively seeking crew members for several positions and would reach out to anyone who is suitably qualified as a deck or catering rating who would like to join Waverley for the summer season.’
Passengers will be able to book a place on the last seagoing paddle steamer in the world as soon as docking arrangements are agreed with port and pier owners so that a 2021 timetable can be set. Given reduced capacity, advance booking will be strongly recommended.