If you're looking for a unique and picturesque summer vacation, consider booking a trip on a paddle steamer and exploring the secluded islands of Southwest Wales and the Bristol Channel. Waverly, the world's last coastal steamer, is set to embark on several cruises this June from popular Welsh coastal towns such as Penarth, Swansea, Tenby, Porth Cole, Milford Haven and Fishguard.
A paddle steamer is a steamship that is propelled by a steamship that drives the paddle wheels underwater. On board the Waverly, passengers can enjoy the authentic experience of a real steamship, with paddle-turning sights and sounds. Full catering facilities are available during the cruise, offering passengers the option to enjoy hot or cold snacks, afternoon tea and cakes, hearty meals at the dining saloon, or refreshing drinks in one of the period lounges.
The beloved ship will begin sailing from Milford Haven on Monday, June 2nd, using the Explorer Cruise in the Pembrokeshire Islands. Passengers will have the opportunity to patrol Scokholm, Skommer and Ramsey Islands, and may see the island's famous wildlife.
Skomer, in particular, is famous as a sanctuary for the Atlantic Puffin colony, swelling to almost 35,000 people during the summer.
Three excursions to the remote island of Randy, where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic, are scheduled for June 3rd, 15th and 17th. These trips offer passengers the opportunity to disembark and explore the island.
A pristine shelter off the coast of North Devon Coast, Randy is characterized by a carless village with an inn, Victorian church and 13th-century Marisco Castle.
Visitors can also discover the abolished lighthouse known as the Old Light. Like the Pembrokeshire Islands, Randy is a nature lover's paradise, boasting a wealth of seabirds, wildlife, flora and fauna.
The island even offers diving and seal watching opportunities.
On Captain's Choice Cruise on Wednesday, June 18th, Waverly departs Waverly to Minehead, a route that has not been filmed for many years, before cruising along the Exmore Coast along the Ilfla Combe.
Porthcawl passengers have the option to embark on a trip on the West Somerset Railway or visit Minehead, Ilfracombe, or Lundy Island.
All paddle steamers are expected to offer special voyages to Tenby this season. Departing from Penars, you will arrive at the charming port on Tuesday, June 24th.
Upon entering Tenby, residents will have the opportunity to embark on an evening cruise that promises glamorous views of Caldey Island and the breathtaking Pembrokeshire Coast as Waverly travels towards Milford Haven.
The finale of this year's excursion is scheduled for Wednesday, June 25th, and will mark Waverly's first public voyage from the locale in over 30 years.
Beyond the daytime trip, the timetable includes several night cruises. On Monday, June 9th, an exclusive night cruise will navigate the Severn River and allow sights to enchant passengers as they pass by the famous bridge that begins at Penars.
Steam lovers also have reason to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Modern Rail by linking with the Steam Railway. Tourists can enjoy the “ultimate steam day” and combine travel on both paddle steamers and trains, including the West Somerset Railway, the Brecon Mountain Railway, and the Linton and Barnstaple Railway.
Captain Dominique McCall, Waverly's Master, said: “We have developed South Wales' best sailing programs to ensure as many locals and visitors as possible can have the opportunity to enjoy a traditional delightful steamer excursion on Waverley.
“We are delighted to be able to sail Waverly from more than 12 locations around Bristol Channel and South Wales. We particularly enjoy cruising through Bristol Channel's coastline with stunning ocean views, and look forward to taking Waverly home this year and welcoming passengers for a great day.”
Reservations are currently available using tickets available from waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling the reservations office on 0141 243 2224. There are many special offers for the elderly and children.
