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PS Waverley: Last seagoing paddle steamer visits Suffolk

Jeff Welch Paddle Steamer Waverley on the River Orwell in Suffolk, with the Orwell Bridge and Ipswich in the backgroundJeff Welch
The Waverley visited Ipswich on Saturday for the first time since 2020

The world's last seagoing paddle steamer is travelling along the East Anglian coast on its way to London.

The PS Waverley's route begins in Great Yarmouth with stops in Southwold and Southend, before continuing its journey to Tower Bridge.

Built in 1946, the ship has carried passengers since its maiden voyage to Lochgoilhead and Arrochar in 1947.

PS Waverley, which can carry up to 700 passengers, also visited Ipswich on Saturday for the first time since 2020.

Gill Moon Photography PS Waverley at Southwold Pier in 2022Gill Moon Photography
Wednesday's cruise starts in Great Yarmouth, with stops at Southwold Pier (pictured last year) and Clacton in Essex before heading to London

A spokesperson for Waverley Excursions said: "We are thrilled to see such overwhelming support for Waverley's cruise from Southwold."

Jeff Welch PS Waverley at Ipswich DocksJeff Welch
The paddle steamer arrived in Ipswich for the first time since 2000
Jeff Welch Paddle Steamer Waverley on the River Orwell in SuffolkJeff Welch
On Saturday, the Waverley left Ipswich on its way to Clacton and London, and it ran a Southend Pier Celebration Cruise on Friday

The boat now contains eateries and bars, as well as a souvenir shop.

PS Waverley is owned by the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society, which was gifted the ship for £1 in 1974.

Due to necessary boiler upgrades, the Waverley saw a short withdrawal from service about three years ago.

Since her return, the ship has been offering passenger tours throughout the UK from May to October.

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