If you are on the lookout for an idyllic summer getaway, there’s no better escape than boarding the paddle steamer and visiting a remote island off of the coast in the UK.
The Waverley is the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer making trips to much-loved seaside towns close to the south of Wales like Penarth, Swansea and Tenby. This June it will be passing a visit to a lesser-known remote island, where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic.
With full catering facilities onboard the cruises, you can enjoy an array of snacks and beverages before arriving at your destination. Passengers can indulge in anything from a hot or cold snack, tea and cake in the afternoon, a hot meal in the dining saloon or a light refreshment in one of the period lounges.
The real gem in these ports of call is Lundy, an unspoilt island just off the north Devon coast that lies peacefully without the disruption of cars and roads. Home to a tiny village with a traditional inn, Victorian church, and the impressive 13th-century Marisco Castle, Lundy is the perfect escape.
Hidden within the island is a disused lighthouse for visitors to uncover, offering breathtaking views over the northern part of the island. Similar to the Pembrokeshire islands, where the Waverly has trips planned, this is a nature-lover’s paradise.
Thanks to its seclusion, there are plenty of seabirds, wildlife, flora and fauna to admire. With this in mind, the island offers a range of opportunities for diving and seal watching for those looking for a more immersive experience.
A long-established pub, Marisco Tavern, is the only pub in Lundy, and so makes for the perfect pit stop for visitors to drink and enjoy some quality time with loved ones. This spot serves traditional pub food from quick lunches to tasty evening meals and acts as the hub of the village.
Originally the village stores, built during the 1860s, this historical pub was established when the quarrying operation employed around 300 men. After the demise of the quarries, it still continued its vital role as a shop and pub and still stands today.
The paddle steamer will also be taking one trip to Tenby this year, sailing from Penarth and pulling into the picturesque harbour on Tuesday, June 24. As well as this, it will be travelling from Milford Haven to the Pembrokeshire Islands of Skokholm, Skomer and Ramsey at the start of June.
Waverley’s master, Captain Dominic McCall, shared: « We have developed the best possible sailing programme for South West Wales to ensure that as many locals and visitors as possible have the opportunity to step aboard Waverley and enjoy a traditional pleasure steamer excursion.
« I am delighted that we are able to sail Waverley from over a dozen locations on the Bristol Channel and around South West Wales. I particularly enjoy cruising the Bristol Channel coastline with its stunning seascapes and look forward to bringing Waverley back this year and welcoming passengers aboard for a great day out. »
The final sail of the year will take place on Wednesday, June 25, from Fishguard, marking the Waverley’s first public sailing from the town in over 30 years. Bookings are now open to set sail on the Waverley, with tickets available from waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224.
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