Excursions on the Waverley

We were on holiday on the Isle of Wight in September 2017 and noticed that the Waverley Steamer was doing day trips to Swanage and back. We booked to go the following day but unfortunately it was cancelled at the last minute as it could not sail due to high winds. They offered to change us to other dates but no other dates suited us so we asked for a refund which was received promptly.

We went on the lovely Waverley last year on a National Coach trip. Stayed overnight just outside London. We travelled from S on Sea pier up the Thames in the evening. Even Tower Bridge was raised for us and everyone on the bridge sides cheered us through. Fabulous!

Not much help to you, but I often sailed doon the watter on the Waverley as a child and in later years as an adult. I have a great affection for her and this thread has brought back many happy memories.

It was mesmerising to watch the paddle churn through the water.

To answer your question OP, my brother took the south coast one a couple of years ago, I can only say from his pictures it wasn’t packed. The weather would depend on which trip, tides etc and local nuances, enjoy if you go,

We sailed around the Isle of Wight last September.

It was wonderful even though the weather wasn’t so great.
We had to book two nights accommodation in Southampton as it was an early start and late finish.

The ship is a bit like a Tardis, it looks small but there is actually a lot of room on board and it didn’t feel packed at all.

There was a guide who gave a very interesting running commentary about different parts of the island as we sailed by.

On board was a small shop as well as different areas to eat including freshly cooked fish and chips which were fab!
Quite a few people bought their own picnics as well.
I would definitely recommend it and now you’ve said the new timetables out I can feel my sea legs twitching again!

We did the one from Campbeltown around the inner Hebrides a few years ago. It was great. Didn’t feel claustrophobic and you could move around and sit in different locations. It was a quiet boat with lots of interesting things to see. Would go again.

Thanks everyone, I think you've sold it to me!

In the meantime enjoy this painting of The Waverley by Jolomo. I have it hanging on my wall (not the original!).

Booked a day trip from Minehead along the North Devon coast. Should be fab, here's hoping the weather is kind to us.