If you’re seeking a unique and picturesque summer getaway, consider booking a journey aboard a paddle steamer to explore the secluded islands of southwest Wales and the Bristol Channel. The Waverley, the last seagoing paddle steamer in the world, is set to embark on several cruises this June from popular Welsh coastal towns including Penarth, Swansea, Tenby, Porthcawl, Milford Haven, and Fishguard.
A paddle steamer is a steamboat propelled by a steam engine that drives paddle wheels through the water. Once aboard the Waverley, passengers can enjoy the authentic experience of a genuine steamship, complete with the sight and sound of turning paddles. Full catering facilities are available during the cruises, offering passengers the option to enjoy hot or cold snacks, afternoon tea and cake, a hearty meal in the Dining Saloon, or a refreshing drink in one of the period lounges.
The beloved ship will begin its voyages from Milford Haven on Monday, June 2, with a Pembrokeshire Islands Explorer cruise. Passengers will have the opportunity to circumnavigate Skokholm, Skomer and Ramsey Island, potentially catching sight of the islands’ renowned wildlife.
Skomer, in particular, is famed as a sanctuary for its Atlantic Puffin colony, which swells to nearly 35,000 during the summer months.
Three excursions to the secluded Lundy Island, where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic, are scheduled for June 3, 15 and 17. These trips will provide passengers with the opportunity to disembark and explore the island.
Lundy, an untouched haven off the north Devon coast, is free of cars and features a quaint village complete with an inn, a Victorian church, and the 13th-century Marisco Castle.
Visitors can also uncover a decommissioned lighthouse known as The Old Light, which reportedly offers stunning views over the northern part of the island. Much like the Pembrokeshire islands, Lundy is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, boasting an abundance of seabirds, wildlife, flora and fauna.
The island even provides opportunities for diving and seal watching.
The Captain’s Choice cruise on Wednesday, June 18, will see the Waverley depart from Porthcawl to Minehead – a route not taken in many years – before cruising along the Exmoor coast to Ilfracombe.
Passengers from Porthcawl will have the option of embarking on a journey on the West Somerset Railway or visiting Minehead, Ilfracombe or Lundy Island.
The paddle steamer is all set to offer a special voyage to Tenby this season, departing from Penarth and arriving at the charming harbour on Tuesday, June 24.
Once in Tenby, residents will have the chance to embark on an evening cruise that promises captivating views of Caldey Island and the breathtaking Pembrokeshire Coast, as Waverley journeys towards Milford Haven.
The finale of this year’s excursions is scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, with a sailing out of Fishguard, marking Waverley’s first public voyage from the locale in over 30 years.
Beyond day trips, the timetable includes several evening cruises. On Monday, June 9, an exclusive night-time cruise will navigate the River Severn, granting passengers enthralling sights as they pass beneath the famed bridges, starting from Penarth.
Steam enthusiasts also have reason to celebrate, as Waverley marks the 200th anniversary of modern rail by linking with steam railways. Tourists can enjoy the “ultimate steam day out”, combining a journey aboard both the paddle steamer and trains like the West Somerset Railway, the Brecon Mountain Railway, and the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway.
Waverley’s Master, Captain Dominic McCall, said: “We have developed the best possible sailing programme for South West Wales to ensure that as many locals and visitors as possible have the opportunity to step aboard Waverley and enjoy a traditional pleasure steamer excursion.
“I am delighted that we are able to sail Waverley from over a dozen locations on the Bristol Channel and around South West Wales. I particularly enjoy cruising the Bristol Channel coastline with its stunning seascapes and look forward to bringing Waverley back this year and welcoming passengers aboard for a great day out.”
Bookings are now open with tickets available from waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224. There are a number of special offers for seniors and children.