World’s last seafaring paddle steamer to return to Ilfracombe in September

The world's last seafaring paddle steamer, celebrating its 40th year in preservation, returns to a harbour close to our caravan parks in Devon this September.

As part of its annual adventure around the coast of the UK, the Waverly will again stop in Ilfracombe, offering day trips midway through its tour of the Bristol Channel.

Waverly To Return To Ilfracombe | John Fowler Devon Caravan Holidays

Image Credit: Robert Pittman Flickr

The paddle steamer will arrive into Ilfracombe Harbour on Saturday 5th September, at which point passengers will hop aboard for a trip up the Exmoor coast, to Minehead.  

The following day it will give passengers the chance to visit Lundy Island – a unique day out on its own, let alone by a 1940's paddle steamer!

Built in 1947, Waverly was sold by the Paddle Steamer Society for just £1 in 1975, in a bid to save the unique vessel. The charity now looking after the Waverly restored it back in 2003, and the boat now sails as it did almost 70 years ago – with towering funnels, timber decks, immaculate varnishing and brass.

Waverly's Captain, Andy O'Brian, said: "We are very much looking forward to bringing Waverley to Ilfracombe and welcoming passengers aboard in this special year."

Those that return on caravan holidays in Devon year after year might have caught glimpse of this magnificent vessel? I'd love to hear from you if you have.

Request a Brochure

Don't miss out on a John Fowler Holiday, order your free copy of our full colour brochure and let the magic begin...

Send me a brochure
Offers by Email

We promise we won't spam you, but we will keep you up-to-date on sales, discounts, and more!