Paddle steamer ready to return after five-year absence

A HISTORIC paddle steamer is returning to Llandudno this summer after an absence of five years.

Sailing from Liverpool, the Waverley will dock at Llandudno Pier before offering afternoon excursions along the coast to Anglesey.

The prospect of a return had looked bleak two months ago when operator Waverley Excursions faced a funding shortfall caused by rocketing fuel prices. The Glasgow-based charity was also waiting for the go-ahead from Llandudno Pier following winter maintenance.

But Waverley Excursions has now confirmed that pier work will be completed on time and that the funding gap has been plugged. As a result, Waverley Excursions has green-lighted two sailings from Liverpool – on Tuesday, June 20 and Wednesday, June 21. Times will be published “shortly”.

In a statement on its Facebook page, Waverley Excursions said: “We are delighted to announce that Llandudno Pier has confirmed that repairs will be complete to allow Waverley to call.

“The Waverley will offer the choice of joining in Liverpool and sailing to Llandudno to visit – or to remain on board for the full-day cruise. Or passengers can board at Llandudno for the afternoon cruise only.”

Last year the ship – the world’s last sea-going paddle steamer – carried more than 100,000 passengers around the UK coast.

For the Liverpool-Llandudno trips, the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is allowing Waverley Excursions to use its landing stage terminal in Liverpool. Trip bookings will be taken once the timetable is announced – but non-specific “Sailing Tickets” are available now.

Costing £45, and pitched as Mother’s Day gifts, these can be exchanged for any of Waverley’s public sailings in 2023. They are available to buy only until Friday, March 31.

For more details, check the Waverley Excursions page on Facebook or visit the charity’s website.