FIFTY years since iconic Clyde Paddle Steamer Waverley’s first sailing in preservation was marked with a water cannon salute by a Greenock-based tug.
The salute by CMS Thunderer, courtesy of Clyde Marine Services, took place near Oban yesterday.
Waverley, the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer, has been preserved thanks to the continued dedication of passengers, supporters, volunteers, and organisations over five decades.
Clyde Marine Services of Victoria Harbour, Greenock, has played a vital role in her preservation, regularly providing tug support, including for dry dock operations.
Adding to the historic significance of the week, Waverley made her first call at Crinan in almost 30 years on Monday 19 May during her sold-out sailing from Glasgow to Oban.
Her 160 nautical mile route took her from Glasgow at 7:30am, with calls at Largs and Campbeltown, before rounding the Mull of Kintyre and cruising up the east side of Gigha to reach Crinan.
The last time Waverley visited the picturesque village was in 1995. Waverley Excursions thanked to Scottish Canals for enabling the rare stop.
