PADDLE steamer Waverley will circumnavigate Bute and sail through the Kyles of Bute during a special evening cruise later this month.
The Scottish Branch of the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society (PSPS) has announced the fundraising sailing will take place on Tuesday, July 28, and will be Waverley’s only evening cruise round Bute during her 2026 summer season.
The historic vessel will depart Tighnabruaich Pier at 5.30pm before sailing round the island and through the Kyles of Bute, including the famous Narrows, returning to Tighnabruaich at 9.20pm.
Allan Smith, chairman of the PSPS Scottish Branch, said: “I am delighted that we have arranged not one but two fundraising evening cruises this year, with the first cruise taking place on July 28.
“I am also pleased that Waverley continues to use Tighnabruaich Pier given the level of support the ship receives from the local community.
“Tighnabruaich Pier and Waverley are intrinsically linked, given Waverley first used the pier in her first year of operation back in 1947.”
The Scottish Branch hopes to raise more than 40,000 towards Waverley’s next winter refit through its two evening cruises and 2026 Grand Draw.
Last winter, the society provided more than 160,000 towards the vessel, allowing a new water mist fire suppression system to be installed.
Mr Smith said the coming winter was expected to present a financial challenge, with fuel costs currently between 30 and 60 per cent higher than 2025 prices.
Waverley has already recorded more than 56,000 passenger journeys during her 2026 season, while a visit to North Wales and the Mersey in June generated record-breaking revenues.
Passenger numbers on the Clyde have also been strong in recent weeks.
The vessel, which was built in Glasgow and still has the city as her home port, has recently been promoted using the slogans Glasgow’s Best-Looking 80 Year Old and Glasgow’s Favourite Steamer.
Full catering facilities will be available throughout the Bute cruise, with live music in the vessel’s main Jeanie Deans Lounge.
Advance tickets cost 40 for adults and 1 for children aged five to 16.
Tickets can be booked through the Waverley Excursions website or by calling 0141 243 2224. Tickets may also be available to purchase on board on the evening of the sailing, subject to availability.
