Waverley Paddle Steamer

Join PS Waverley for a cruise from Gravesend through the Thames Estuary to the remarkable Maunsell Sea Forts at Red Sands and Shivering Sands. Built during the Second World War to defend the approaches to London, these striking offshore structures remain among the most distinctive and atmospheric landmarks on the Thames Estuary, standing isolated against the wide open waters of the North Sea coast.

 

The voyage itself is as memorable as the destination. Waverley is the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer and has been carrying passengers around the British coast since 1947. Lovingly restored and maintained, she offers a rare chance to experience traditional steam navigation at first hand, complete with towering funnels, timber decks and the unmistakable sound of her paddle wheels turning through the water.

 

As the ship makes her way downriver from Gravesend, passengers enjoy constantly changing views of the Thames, from busy shipping channels and riverside industry to the open estuary beyond. With her unique character and unmistakable silhouette, Waverley provides an experience that is both a journey through maritime history and a distinctive way to see the Thames Estuary and its wartime sea forts from the water.

 

PLEASE NOTE - Gravesend Town Pier has access restrictions with no step-free access.

 

 

CRUISE THAMES FORTS - RED SANDS & SHIVERING SANDS

 

Depart 11.45 Gravesend

Arrive 18.00 Gravesend

 

 

PICK UP ROUTE: H

 

Departure Point

Please be at your departure point to board the ship at least 10 minutes before the departure time on both the outward and return legs. Boarding closes 5 minutes before departure on outward and return journeys.

 

Catering

There is a range of eating and drinking options aboard Waverley for passengers to enjoy.

Waverley’s Dining Saloon, situated on the Main Deck is open throughout your cruise offering Hot breakfast rolls until 11am. From 12 noon, a selection of Soups, Sandwiches & Snacks and full meals are available. Hot drinks, soft drinks and cakes are also available.

The Caledonia Tea Bar on the Promenade Deck offers a range of hot and cold drinks, soup, sandwiches, snacks, cakes, and ice cream. The Jeanie Deans Lounge on the Main Deck offers a relaxing atmosphere with excellent views of the passing scenery. A selection of hot and cold drinks is available as well as stronger refreshments.

 

Shopping

No cruise on Waverley is complete without a visit to the on-board Souvenir Shop to pick up your exclusive memento of your time aboard the last seagoing paddle steamer in the World.

There is a wide range of tempting gifts on offer so everyone can find their perfect Waverley memento including clothing, books, homewares, confectionery, and postcards. Every purchase from our shop helps support Waverley. You can even send a postcard using the Victorian postbox.

Waverley is owned by a Registered Charity (SC005832) and operated on a ‘not-for-profit’ basis. Every purchase made aboard Waverley helps ensure her continued operation.

 

Safety Information for Passengers

The safety and wellbeing of our passengers and crew is our highest priority. Please take care when boarding and when moving around the ship and listen for tannoy announcements: Information relevant to your sailing, safety and onboard services will be relayed throughout the day by the Purser.

 

Useful Information

• Even in summer it may get chilly when sailing so bring along a sweater or jacket. Sensible footwear is advisable.

• Please take care when moving onto or from stairways and over the step provided at doorways. Hold onto the handrail whilst going up or downstairs. Stairways on Waverley are steep.

• Please note that bags and clothing should not be left unattended on seats – crew will remove these if necessary.

• Smoking and vaping or using e-cigarettes is only permitted on the open Promenade Deck. We would ask you to take the wind direction and comfort of other passengers into consideration.