FOR the first time in five years, the Waverley paddle-steamer will be returning to Minehead Harbour.

The world's only remaining paddle-steamer last visited Minehead in 2018. The Covid-19 pandemic and a collision with a Scottish pier has meant that, until now, all sailings have been cancelled.

Those who venture aboard can expect to take a visit to a wide variety of places, including Ilfracombe, Lundy Island, the West Somerset Railway, the Severn Bridges, the Holm Islands, Skokholm and Skomer and the North Devon Coast.

Paul Semple, the Waverley general manager, told the West Somerset Free Press: “This is the biggest time-table Waverley has offered for the Bristol Channel for ten years. Minehead is always a key destination.”

Waverley’s Bristol Channel 2023 timetable will operate from Friday, June 2 until Sunday, June 18.

On Saturday, June 10, Waverley will arrive in Minehead from Penarth at 11.45am. From there, the steamer will be sailing to the coast of Ilfracombe, departing around 12pm. A coach connection will bring passengers back to Minehead, arriving at 7.45pm. 

The cruise to Flatholm and Steepholm on Thursday, June 15 will arrive in Minehead at 4.40pm and leave at 5.15pm.

On the next day, June 16, a coach will take passengers to Ilfracombe at 12pm for an afternoon cruise.

As explained on the Waverley website, the steamer boat is named after  Sir Walter Scott’s Waverley novels and was built to replace the 1899 Waverley which was sunk in Dunkirk in 1940.

The Waverley boasts an impressive triple expansion reciprocating steam engine, which has a horse power of around 2100.

During your journey, the chief or second chief engineer will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the boat. Since the engine is in full public view, you will also be able to see how it works for yourself.

Also visible is the Waverley's paddle wheels. You can view these through portholes in the ship's hull.

By taking a trip on the world's last seagoing paddle steamer, you can ensure that the boat can sail for many more years to come.

For more information about the Waverley and to view the full timetable for 2023, please visit the Book Now page on the Waverley website.