The Paddle Steamer Waverley will make one final sailing from Ayr Harbour in 2026 after passenger numbers from the town rose sharply during the summer programme.
The historic vessel is due to depart Ayr at 2.20pm on Sunday, 30 August, bringing its Glasgow and Clyde summer programme to a close. More than 3,300 passengers have boarded Waverley at Ayr this year, an increase of 50 per cent compared with last season.
What passengers can expect
The sailing will give passengers departing from Ayr the opportunity to visit Brodick on the Isle of Arran. Those choosing to go ashore will have approximately two hours to explore the village, spend time along the waterfront or take in views across the island before returning to the ship.
Passengers who prefer to remain aboard can take the full cruise to Pladda and around the Holy Isle. The route will offer views of the coastline and the Firth of Clyde.
Food and drink will be available throughout the cruise. Waverley’s catering facilities will provide hot and cold snacks, afternoon tea and cake, as well as hot meals in the Dining Saloon. Refreshments will also be available in the vessel’s period lounges, while passengers can browse the onboard souvenir shop.
Support for Ayr sailings
Captain Bruce Clark, Master of Waverley, thanked people in Ayr and surrounding communities for supporting the sailings. He described Ayr as a success story for the vessel this year and said the final cruise would be a fitting conclusion to the Glasgow and Clyde summer season.
Clark also thanked Associated British Ports and the team at the Port of Ayr for welcoming Waverley back, saying their support was crucial to making the sailings possible.
Waverley is the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer and has become a familiar sight in Ayrshire waters during its summer sailing programme. The latest passenger figures underline the demand for the Ayr stop, with the 2026 season’s total 50 per cent higher than the previous year.
Tickets and booking information
Tickets can be bought online through waverleyexcursions.co.uk, by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224, or aboard Waverley on the day, subject to availability.
Anyone planning to travel from Ayr should check availability before arriving, as onboard day-of-sailing tickets are not guaranteed.