The world’s last seagoing paddle steamer has returned to Ipswich.

Waverley arrived in Ipswich on Thursday, September 24 as part of her 2026 London and Thames Estuary programme, before embarking on a journey to Clacton and then along the River Thames to London.

Passengers on board will enjoy views of the Thames Barrier, The O2 Arena, and Canary Wharf before Waverley steams beneath the floodlit Tower Bridge and into London.

It is the world's last seagoing paddle steamer (Image: Waverley Excursions)

Captain Bruce Clark, Master of Waverley, said: “We are delighted to be returning to Ipswich during such a special year for Waverley.

"On October 2 we will mark 80 years since she was launched in 1946, and it is wonderful that eight decades on she continues to sail.

"Our sailing from Ipswich to London on 7th October is a particularly exciting journey, taking passengers along the Thames and beneath Tower Bridge aboard the World’s last seagoing paddle steamer.”

It will sail under Tower Bridge in London (Image: Waverley Excursions)

Waverley will return to Ipswich for another special sailing on Wednesday, October 7, departing at 9.15am.

She will again travel via Clacton before making the journey along the Thames to central London, with passengers once more able to experience her iconic passage beneath Tower Bridge and into the Pool of London.

After passing through Tower Bridge, the bridge will lift a second time to allow Waverley to return beneath it before continuing downriver to Gravesend.

Passengers can opt for a one-way trip ending at Gravesend, or make use of the inclusive coach transfer back to Ipswich.

The Waverley docked in Ipswich (Image: Waverley Excursions)

On board, guests can immerse themselves in the full steamship experience, from hearing the telegraph ring to visiting the engine room and watching the paddles turn through the portholes.

Waverley offers full catering on all cruises, including hot meals in the dining saloon, afternoon tea and cake, and refreshments in one of the period lounges.

There is also a souvenir shop for those wishing to take home a memento of their time on board.

It is set to return to Ipswich at the start of October (Image: Kevin Jay)

Launched on October 2, 1946, Waverley marks her 80th anniversary this year and continues to operate in preservation, visiting destinations across the UK.

Bookings are open for the October 7 sailing.

Tickets are available at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224.