An iconic vessel is set to dock at Clacton Pier this week as part of its 2026 Thames cruising programme.
The historic PS Waverley arrives at 1.10pm on Thursday (September 24) and sets off 20 minutes later for the first of three trips from the seaside attraction to London.
They take in the Essex coastline, famous attractions such as Cutty Sark, Greenwich Naval Museum and Canary Wharf. That is followed by the unique spectacle of Tower Bridge opening for Waverley to steam through and see HMS Belfast in the Pool of London.
Those on board will return to Clacton by luxury coach arriving back about 10.30pm.
Nigel Brown, the pier’s communications manager, said it will be a great experience to once again welcome back the paddle steamer.
“Waverley is a magnificent site as she steams in to dock at our berthing arm,” he added. “Not only is there a large crowd waiting to board, but many others gather to see her arrive and leave.
“It is an opportunity to take photos of an 80-year-old vessel which brings back memories of when the pier was built in 1871. It was constructed to receive paddle steamers bringing in passengers and goods to the new town.”
There will be two more cruises to the capital taking place from Clacton Pier on Tuesday September 29 (leaving at 1.30pm) and Wednesday October 7 (leaving at 12.15pm).
Waverley was built in 1946 and underwent in second successive £1million refit in Scotland over the winter.
On Monday September 28 the vessel heads off from the pier for a party cruise to the River Blackwater. It will be the last opportunity to see the Radio Caroline pirate ship Ross Revenge before she heads off for an extensive rebuild in Hull.
Waverley will arrive at the pier at about 2.10pm and leave 20 minutes later where those on board will get the chance to enjoy the Swinging Sixties Pirate Radio Cruise.
The trip includes live music and entertainment from band Eclipse reliving the hits of the 60s. There will be pirate radio DJs aboard with a superb commentary about the history of Radio Caroline from Ray Clarke.
Cruisers are being encouraged to dress for the occasion and can win a prize. Waverley returns at 5pm.
The fifth and final cruise from the pier is an afternoon trip up the scenic River Orwell on Tuesday October 6.
Those on board will take in the sights, cruise under the Orwell bridge and enjoy a grandstand view of the bustling port of Felixstowe. The cruise departs at 1pm and returns at 5.30pm and senior citizens can take a friend free.
Tim Wardley Waverley’s Pier Liaison Officer said: “We always have great support from the residents and visitors of Clacton when we call for which we are truly grateful.
“Clacton support is vital to the success of bringing Waverley to the Thames – even more so this year with the surge in costs of operating the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer.
“We thank the team at the pier for accommodating us and making sure these cruises from the town can continue.”
Tickets can be online at www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 2432224.
