Tickets sell out for Shoreham Paddle Steamer Waverley trip

The historic Paddle Steamer Waverley will call at Shoreham for the first time on September 13 as it travels along the south coast towards the Isle of Wight.

It will also be the first time the steamer has visited Sussex in recent years, with tours that once operated from the county no longer running.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, PS Waverley ran regular excursions from Newhaven to the Isle of Wight and many former passengers have contacted The Argus to share fond memories of their days out.

One person said: “I was the organiser of a trip from Newhaven to the Isle of Wight and return.

PS Waverley at Yarmouth Pier, Isle of Wight (Image: PS Waverley)

“It was a super trip one Sunday, bit of a chill on deck but warm standing against the funnel or down in the lounge or watching in the engine room.

“Although I cannot immediately confirm the year, it was between 1975 and 1979 because it was a mixture of work colleagues from Hassocks, Burgess Hill and friends from Brighton.”

Another said: “My dad took me on the Waverley from Worthing Pier to the Isle of Wight in 1981. I've never felt as sick since.”

Waverley was built in 1946 to replace a steamer of the same name which was sunk while evacuating troops from Dunkirk during the Second World War.

She was sold for £1 in 1973 and began operating as an excursion ship after being restored.

Captain Dominic McCall told The Argus: “We are pleased to report that all available tickets for the Shoreham journey have been completely sold out, showcasing the immense excitement and interest in this special event.

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“We are very much looking forward to Paddle Steamer Waverley's inaugural cruise from Shoreham and hope that locals will support the ship for this exciting sailing.

“This is going to be a fantastic coastal cruise.”

Cruises from departure points outside Sussex are available via the Paddle Steamer Waverley website.