All aboard for adventure: Glasgow & the Clyde Coast Cruises 2025 with Paddle Steamer Waverley

Step back in time and experience the golden age of steam travel with Waverley, the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer. This summer, from June 27 to August 25 2025, Waverley invites passengers of all ages to rediscover the magic of sailing “Doon the Watter” on an unforgettable journey around the Glasgow and Clyde Coast.

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A floating national treasure

After being gifted for just £1 to the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society, Waverley has run on a not-for-profit basis since 1975. This year marks 50 years since her first preservation sailing – a milestone many never thought possible. With over six million passengers having stepped aboard since, she’s not just a ship; she’s a national icon.

From open waters and mountainous sea lochs to the dramatic Kyles of Bute, Waverley offers a spectacular variety of cruises. Sailings depart from 18 ports of call, including Glasgow, Greenock, Largs, Dunoon, Rothesay, Brodick, Tighnabruaich and Campbeltown, just to name a few. Each route offers breathtaking views and the nostalgic charm of steamship travel.

In 2025, passengers will enjoy a new perspective of the River Clyde, sailing beneath Glasgow’s newest bridges at Govan and Renfrew, which will rise in salute as Waverley steams through.

Cruises to suit every adventurer

Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset cruise, a family day out or a voyage of discovery to picturesque villages like Tarbert or Tighnabruaich, there’s something for everyone.

Special highlights include:

• Evening cruises with live music in the Jeanie Deans Lounge (July 18 & 22, August 1, 15 & 20)
• Scenic steamings around Ailsa Craig, Loch Long, and the Isle of Arran
• A chance to escort Cunard’s new Queen Anne when she visits the Clyde on Wednesday 2 July

Fun for all the family

Kids sail for just £1 on all Glasgow & Clyde Coast cruises, with under 5s going FREE. Seniors can enjoy discounted rates, including “Bring a Friend for Free” on select sailings. NHS and care workers receive 15% off (excluding Saturdays), and groups of ten or more get 10% discount.

No trip is complete without a peek into the engine room—watch the pistons pump and paddles churn, and hear the telegraph ring. With catering available throughout each cruise, enjoy a hot meal, afternoon tea, or a refreshing drink in one of the elegant period lounges. Be sure to visit the Souvenir Shop for exclusive gifts to remember your voyage.

Tickets are available online or by calling the Waverley Booking Office on 0141 243 2224.

Glasgow & Clyde Coast Special Events 2025

Don’t miss these extra-special sailings and celebrations throughout the summer:

• View & Escort Cunard’s Queen Anne – Wednesday July 2
• Pirates, Princesses & Superheroes Days – Friday July 18 – Departing Glasgow & Dunoon, Sunday July 20– From Greenock, Rothesay & Largs
• Blairmore Pier 170th Anniversary – Wednesday July 30
• PSPS Scottish Branch Fundraising Cruises – Tuesday July 22 – Departing Tighnabruaich, Largs & Keppel, Wednesday August 20– From Dunoon, Greenock & Kilcreggan (coach connection from Helensburgh)
• Tighnabruaich Pier Fundraising Cruise – Saturday August 2 (tickets sold on the day)
• Captain’s Choice Cruise to Campbeltown & the Kintyre Coast – Wednesday August 6.

Whether it’s your first time or a beloved tradition, cruising with Waverley is a summer highlight not to be missed. Relive the romance of the paddle steamer era and create lasting memories along Scotland’s iconic Clyde Coast.