A paddle steamer is a ship powered by a steam engine that turns large wheels on its sides to move through water. The Waverley is the last ship of this type in the world that still sails on the open sea. In October 2026, the famous vessel celebrates 80 years since its launch in 1946.
The ship stopped regular commercial service in 1974. However, a charity saved the ship and restored it to its original 1940s style. Since 1975, more than six million passengers have traveled on the Waverley around the United Kingdom.
To celebrate the milestone, the Waverley will take passengers on special anniversary trips along the River Thames in London. People on board can enjoy live music from the 1940s while viewing historic landmarks from the water.