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For the first time in four years, the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer is returning to London and the Thames to offer a variety of sailings from London’s Tower Pier, Gravesend, Southend, Harwich, Clacton, Whitstable and Southwold - with additional coach connections to meet Waverley available from Ipswich, Great Yarmouth and Margate.

The sound of paddle beats was last heard on the River Thames back in 2018. Since then, Waverley has been re-boilered and seen some major refurbishment work thanks to successful public fundraising appeals.

Waverley’s General Manager, Paul Semple, explained: “I am delighted to announce that Waverley will make her triumphant return to cruising the River Thames and Thames Estuary allowing everyone the opportunity to step aboard and enjoy the unique experience of sailing on a paddle steamer.

“From 23 September to 9 October, Waverley will once again sail under Tower Bridge as it opens especially for her, alongside offering unique cruises of the Orwell, Blackwater and Medway rivers, and popular day trips to Southend, Clacton, Harwich and Whitstable.”

He adds: “Earlier this season Waverley celebrated the 75th anniversary since their maiden voyage, a milestone very few Clyde steamers have reached. With the beat of her paddles, the sound of her whistle and the aroma of hot oil in her engine room, Waverley comes alive as she takes passengers on a nostalgic journey.

“I know many will be pleased to see the sight of her famous red, white and black funnels in the coming weeks.”

There are some special sailings planned including a 'Great Day of Steam' on Monday 3 October - a must for all paddle steamers or maritime enthusiasts. The famous Steam Tug Challenge is set to escort Waverley to the Red Sands Fort.

Challenge was the last steam tug to have worked on the Thames, but is best known for the role she played in Operation Dynamo - the evacuation of troops from the shores of Dunkirk in 1940 during WWII.

Passengers can enjoy a spectacular evening cruise from Gravesend on Friday 30 September to sail up the 'Twinkling Thames' - cruise by the shimmering Canary Wharf and view the floodlit Tower Bridge open especially for Waverley. Enjoy a meal in the self-service restaurant or relax with a drink in our lounges as you watch the world slip by.

There are several dates when you can enjoy a day trip from London to the traditional seaside resort of Southend - home to the UK’s longest Pleasure Pier. Southend has a vast array of traditional seaside fun in the form of the Adventure Island amusement park, Pier Museum, Sealife Centre and a range of shops and cafes.

There is the option to cruise on Waverley one-way and return by public transport or return by paddle steamer!

This year Waverley will return to the charming seaside town of Southwold for the first time in over 10 years. On Thursday 29 September passengers will have the chance to step aboard at Southwold for a Cruise to London sailing up the river Thames and steaming through Tower Bridge. There will be a coach connection available from Great Yarmouth.

While aboard the famous vessel passengers have the unique opportunity to fully view the triple expansion steam engine as it drives the ship’s massive paddle wheels and visit the Souvenir Shop to purchase an exclusive memento of their trip aboard Waverley.

All profits from the sale of items in the shop go back to the upkeep of the ship. Waverley also has full catering facilities with a self-service restaurant, tea bar and traditional period lounges.

Tickets for all of Waverley’s London and Thames sailings can be booked online at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 243 2224.