Paddle Steamer Waverley returns to Oban and the Inner Hebrides for special preservation anniversary
Paddle Steamer Waverley, the World’s last seagoing paddle steamer, will return to Oban and the Inner Hebrides for nine days only from Monday 19th to Tuesday 27th May. This special return marks a special milestone as Waverley celebrates 50 years of sailing in preservation. Cruising around the breathtaking scenery of Scotland’s west coast, Waverley will offer nostalgic sailings for all ages to enjoy, with special offers for seniors on selected dates and kids sailing for just £1 on all trips.
Waverley’s sailings will depart from ports and piers including Oban, Kyle of Lochalsh, Portree, Armadale, Raasay, Gairloch, Ullapool, Tobermory, Craignure, and Fort William. This year will see her make two first-ever visits, firstly to Carbost, on the Isle of Skye, on Friday 23rd May, set against the dramatic Cuillin Mountains, and to Salen, on the Isle of Mull, before she steams around the Isle of Muck on Tuesday 27th May.
Passengers will have the chance to witness the stunning Corryvreckan Whirlpool, cruise into Loch Hourn or Loch Broom, or steam around the rugged coastlines of Raasay, Staffa, and Muck. Highlights include magical evening cruises where passengers can sail up Loch Carron with views of Plockton from Kyle of Lochalsh on Tuesday 20th May, or cruise across Loch Linnhe and around Lismore at sunset from Oban on Sunday 25th May.
A standout day will be Tuesday 20th May, when passengers can board at Oban or Armadale to sail through the remote and rarely visited Loch Hourn, with scenic views of the Sandaig Islands. That evening, passengers can join Waverley at Kyle of Lochalsh for a splendid evening cruise into the waters of Loch Carron and Loch Kishorn, passing Plockton and the Strome Narrows.
After making her first ever visit to Ullapool in 2024, Waverley will return for one day only on Thursday 22 May, the anniversary celebrating 50 years of sailing in preservation. Passengers can step aboard from Portree, Gairloch, Ullapool, or travel by coach connection from Kyle of Lochalsh or Inverness to enjoy a cruise into Loch Broom, taking in views of Ullapool, Rubha Cadail, and Isle Martin.
On Monday 26 May, passengers can join Waverley from Oban or Tobermory, or via coach connections from Stirling or Glasgow, for a unique sailing to visit Tiree or cruise along the Tiree coastline and through Gunna Sound.
Captain Dominic McCall, Waverley’s Master, shared his excitement: “We are delighted to offer passengers the unique opportunity to step aboard Waverley as she cruises Oban and the Inner Hebrides once again. The Western Isles are truly magical and provide a fantastic backdrop for a cruise aboard this historic steamship.
Following the fantastic support we’ve received over the past few years, we’ve extended the 2025 sailing programme to give even more people the chance to experience Waverley. I can’t think of a more perfect setting for her to sail during the very week she celebrates 50 years of preservation.”
Once aboard, passengers can savour the sight and sound of a real steamship—hear the telegraph ring, visit the Engine Room, watch the engine in motion, and see the paddles turning through the portholes. Waverley offers full catering on all cruises: passengers can enjoy snacks, tea and cake, a hot meal in the Dining Saloon, or a drink in one of the period lounges. The Souvenir Shop will also be open, offering exclusive gifts and mementos to mark the experience aboard this much-loved ship.
Over £1 million has been invested in Waverley over the winter to secure her ongoing operation. Her 2025 season begins on Friday 16 May, visiting over 70 ports and piers around the UK.
Tickets for all sailings are available at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224.
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