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Paddle steamer Waverley returns to Gravesend Town Pier for River Thames cruises

The world's last seagoing paddle steamer has returned to Kent.

The Waverley was spotted sailing along the Thames as it arrived at the Town Pier in Gravesend.

Paddle steamer Waverley has arrived in Gravesend. Picture: Jason Arthur
Paddle steamer Waverley has arrived in Gravesend. Picture: Jason Arthur

Last year the historic ship sailed past the county for the first time in four years after last being seen on the river in 2018.

The vessel was built in 1946 and made her maiden voyage a year later along Loch Long and Long Goil in Scotland.

In 1974, the ship was sold for £1 and then operated in preservation the following year.

In 2019, it was announced Waverley would be withdrawn from service and needed new boilers if she was to ever sail again.

It offers a range of cruises up and down the Thames. Picture: Jason Arthur
It offers a range of cruises up and down the Thames. Picture: Jason Arthur

And thanks to public funding it was replaced and major refurbishment works were completed.

Sailings on the Thames, with departures from Gravesend, are running up until Sunday, October 8.

A variety of day, afternoon and evening cruises are on offer.

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