Paddle Steamer Waverley Returns to Tenby: A Rare Chance to See the World’s Last Seagoing Paddle Steamer

There are some sights that make Tenby feel even more like Tenby. The harbour in the sunshine. Boats bobbing in the bay. Ice creams being defended from seagulls with the seriousness of an international peace treaty.

And then, every so often, something truly special appears on the horizon.

This June, Paddle Steamer Waverley, the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer, is set to visit Tenby as part of her limited South Wales and Bristol Channel sailing programme. The historic steamship will be operating in the region until Tuesday 16 June 2026, with calls planned at several coastal locations including Tenby, Milford Haven, Fishguard, Swansea, Penarth and Porthcawl.

A Historic Steamship Coming to Tenby

Waverley is not just another boat trip. She is a piece of living maritime history.

Launched in 1946, Waverley celebrates her 80th anniversary this year. Built in Glasgow for the London and North Eastern Railway, she entered service in 1947 and has since become one of Britain’s most loved historic vessels.

For Tenby, her visit is a wonderful reminder of the town’s long connection with the sea. From fishing boats and pleasure cruises to lifeboats, sailing trips and summer visitors arriving by water, Tenby has always looked its best from the coast.

And seeing Waverley against the backdrop of Tenby’s pastel-coloured harbour, Castle Hill, North Beach and the sweep of Carmarthen Bay is the sort of thing that makes you stop, point, and say, “Now that’s a proper day out.”

Why Waverley’s Visit to Tenby Is So Special

Waverley is described as the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer, meaning she is the last vessel of her kind still taking passengers to sea.

Unlike modern cruise boats, Waverley offers passengers the chance to experience the sights, sounds and atmosphere of traditional steam travel. On board, visitors can hear the telegraph ring, visit the engine room, watch the engine moving, and see the paddles turning through the portholes.

For visitors to Tenby, that makes this more than a coastal cruise. It is a chance to step back into the golden age of steam, while enjoying one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in West Wales.

What Can Visitors Expect On Board Waverley?

Passengers stepping aboard Waverley can enjoy a traditional steamship experience with modern comforts.

Facilities on board include:

Food, Drink and Relaxed Lounges

Waverley has full catering available during cruises, with options including hot and cold snacks, afternoon tea and cake, hot meals in the Dining Saloon, and refreshments in the ship’s period lounges.

Engine Room and Paddle Steamer Experience

One of the highlights of travelling on Waverley is the chance to see the working steam engine. Visitors can watch the engine in motion and see the famous paddles turning — something you simply do not get on a standard boat trip.

Souvenirs and Mementos

Passengers can also visit the Souvenir Shop on board to pick up a gift or keepsake from their journey on this historic vessel.

Tenby from the Sea

Tenby is beautiful from the streets, stunning from the beaches, and absolutely magnificent from the water.

A sailing visit gives passengers a unique view of the town’s coastline, including the colourful harbour, the cliffs, St Catherine’s Island, Castle Beach, South Beach and the wider sweep of Carmarthen Bay.

For photographers, maritime enthusiasts, families, visitors and locals alike, Waverley’s Tenby visit is one of those occasions where the camera roll may become, shall we say, “substantial.”

A Boost for Coastal Tourism in West Wales

Waverley’s return is also good news for coastal tourism.

The ship has carried more than 6 million passengers since operating in preservation from 1975, and in each of the past three summer seasons she has attracted more than 150,000 passengers. A recent independent economic impact assessment valued Waverley’s contribution to the UK economy at £11.6 million.

For towns like Tenby, visits like this bring extra interest, extra footfall and a real sense of occasion. People come to sail, watch, photograph, wave from the harbour, and often stay to eat, shop and explore.

Supporting the Future of Waverley

Waverley continues to operate thanks to passengers, members, volunteers and supporters across the UK.

Her General Manager, Paul Semple, has highlighted that rising operating costs remain a challenge, including a reported 65% increase in fuel costs this season. The best way people can support Waverley’s future is by stepping aboard and enjoying a cruise.

In other words, buying a ticket is not just a lovely day out. It helps keep this remarkable historic ship sailing for future generations.

How to Book Waverley Cruises from Tenby

Bookings for Waverley’s South Wales and Bristol Channel cruises are now open.

Tickets are available through waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224.

Waverley in Tenby: A Day to Remember

Tenby has no shortage of memorable moments, but the arrival of the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer is something genuinely special.

Whether you are a local who loves the harbour, a visitor planning a West Wales break, a steam enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a proper seaside spectacle, Waverley’s visit to Tenby is well worth looking out for.

A historic paddle steamer, a beautiful coastal town, and the chance to see Tenby from the sea.

Honestly, it would be rude not to.

FAQs

When is Paddle Steamer Waverley visiting Tenby?

Waverley is due to call at Tenby during her limited regional sailing programme, which runs until Tuesday 17 June 2026.

What is Paddle Steamer Waverley?

Waverley is the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer and a fully restored historic steamship launched in 1946.

Can passengers travel on Waverley from Tenby?

Waverley is offering cruises during her regional visit. Tickets and sailing details are available from Waverley Excursions.

Why is Waverley famous?

Waverley is famous because she is the last seagoing paddle steamer in the world and continues to carry passengers around the British coastline.

Where can I book tickets for Waverley?

Tickets can be booked at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 243 2224.

Photography by: Lloyd Jones