THE world’s last seagoing paddle steamer is returning to cruise the Bristol Channel in June for the first time in five years.

Waverley will give locals and visitors alike the opportunity to step aboard for a nostalgic trip on the famous steamship from June 2 to 18.

The steamer will offer a wide variety of cruises from Clevedon, Portishead, Weston, Minehead and Ilfracombe.

Since Waverley last cruised the Channel in 2018 she has undergone a multi-million pound refurbishment with new steam boilers installed.

Thanks to a £180,000 public appeal, to meet the annual dry docking fees, the ship’s charitable owners are offering the most extensive sailing programme for over a decade.

Waverley first visited the Bristol Channel in 1979 sailing in the wake of the famous White Funnel Fleet of pleasure steamers which operated until the 60s.

Waverley’s general manager Paul Semple said: “I am delighted to announce that Waverley will make her much anticipated return to the waters of the Bristol Channel.

"The ship offers a truly unique experience and I know many will welcome the sight of her famous red, white and black funnels and the distinct sound of her paddles beating."

To relaunch her sailings on the Bristol Channel there are several special offers, with kids fares from £1, over 60s can 'Bring a Friend Free’ on June 13, and NHS workers can claim a 15 per cent discount when booking in advance at waverleyexcursions.co.uk.

During the programme of cruises Waverley will offer the traditional pleasure trips from Portishead, Clevedon, Weston and Minehead to visit Ilfracombe, giving passengers several hours ashore to explore.

A special sailing on Sunday, June 4, will allow passengers from Clevedon to visit Lundy Island.

There are options to combine a cruise on Waverley with a trip on the West Somerset Railway and visit Minehead.

To mark ‘Year of the Pier’ a special evening fundraising cruise for Clevedon Pier will take place on Sunday June 11 with all proceeds going to the upkeep of the historic pier.

A highlight of this year’s sailing schedule sees Waverley offering trips from Portishead for the first time in over 20 years.

On Sunday June 2 those stepping aboard at Portishead will be able to enjoy a cruise on the River Severn and under the bridges.

Tickets for all sailings can be booked at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 2432224.