Paddle Steamer Waverley will return to Ayr Harbour for one final sailing of 2026 following a significant rise in passenger numbers from the town.
The historic vessel will depart Ayr at 2.20pm on Sunday, 30 August, bringing its Glasgow and Clyde summer programme to a close.
More than 3,300 passengers have boarded Waverley at Ayr this year, representing an increase of 50 per cent compared with last season.
Captain Bruce Clark, Master of Waverley, thanked the people of Ayr and the surrounding communities for their continued support.
He said: “Ayr has been a real success story for Waverley this year, and we want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has stepped aboard and supported us throughout the summer.
“To have welcomed more than 3,300 people aboard Waverley at Ayr, which is 50% more passengers than last year, has been fantastic.
“We are also extremely grateful to Associated British Ports and the team at the Port of Ayr for welcoming Waverley back. Their support is a crucial part of making these sailings possible.
“We couldn’t think of a better way to finish our Glasgow and Clyde Summer season than by returning to Ayr for one final sailing. We hope locals and visitors will join us, step aboard and help us give the Clyde Summer season the send-off it deserves.”
Passengers departing from Ayr will have the opportunity to visit Brodick on the Isle of Arran, where they will be given approximately two hours ashore.
Visitors can explore the village, spend time along the waterfront or enjoy views across the island before returning to the ship.
Alternatively, passengers can remain aboard for the full cruise to Pladda and around the Holy Isle, taking in the coastline and views across the Firth of Clyde.
Full catering facilities will be available throughout the cruise, including hot and cold snacks, afternoon tea and cake and hot meals in the Dining Saloon.
Passengers can also enjoy refreshments in Waverley’s period lounges and visit the onboard souvenir shop.
Waverley is the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer and has become a familiar sight in Ayrshire waters during its summer sailing programme.
Tickets can be purchased online at waverleyexcursions.co.uk, by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224 or aboard Waverley on the day, subject to availability.