21-05-2025
Water cannon salute marks Waverley paddle steamer milestone
To mark the occasion, she was given a water cannon salute by tug CMS Thunderer, courtesy of Clyde Marine Services, upon her return to Scotland's west coast.
The salute took place near Oban on Tuesday, May 20, as a tribute to Waverley's preservation journey and a warm welcome back to the west coast.
Waverley at Crinan (Image: Supplied) The Waverley has been preserved through the dedication of passengers, supporters, volunteers, and organisations over the years.
Clyde Marine Services has been crucial in her preservation, regularly providing tug support, including for dry dock operations.
Waverley's 50th year in preservation began with a special thank you sailing on May 22 for guests, acknowledging those who helped keep her sailing since she was famously bought for £1 in 1974.
Waverley also made her first visit to Crinan in almost 30 years on Monday, May 19, during her sold-out sailing from Glasgow to Oban.
(Image: Supplied) Her 160-nautical-mile route started in Glasgow at 7.30am, with stops at Largs and Campbeltown, before rounding the Mull of Kintyre and cruising up the east side of Gigha to reach Crinan.
The last time Waverley visited the village was in 1995.
Passengers can board Waverley in Oban from May 24 to May 27, with sailings to places including Staffa, Tobermory, Duart Castle, Corryvreckan Whirlpool, Tiree, and for the first time, Salen Pier on the Isle of Mull.
Tickets can be booked at or by calling 0141 243 2224.
After her Bristol Channel sailings in June, Waverley will return to Glasgow and the Clyde coast for her summer season from June 27 to August 25.
