The Waverley, the last seagoing paddle steamer, has been named National Flagship of the Year by National Historic Ships UK.
The award acknowledges the breadth of Waverley's sailings and the extended programme planned for 2024 featuring an unprecedented 70 ports and piers.
Waverley will carry a special Flagship Pennant throughout the sailing season, denoting its national status. It will also receive an engraved brass plaque. This annual accolade, established in 2009, recognises vessels on the National Register of Historic Vessels for their importance and historical value.
Commencing on May 17, Waverley's 2024 sailing programme kicks off with a weekend on the Clyde Coast before heading toward Oban and the Inner Hebrides.
Notably, the 2024 high point is Waverley's return to the South West and River Dart in late August. Here, it meets Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle, marking the first such event in over a decade.
Sir Timothy Laurence, husband of Her Royal Highness Princess Anne and patron of Paddle Steamer Waverley, said: "I am delighted that Waverley has been awarded the title of National Flagship 2024. This reflects not only the very positive impression she has created around the UK in recent years but also the economic benefit she generates wherever she goes. My congratulations to the Waverley team for this well-deserved award."
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An Economic Impact Assessment reported that passengers onboard Waverley contributed a remarkable £11.6 million to the UK economy in the 2023 season.
This represented a 107 per cent growth from 2015 figures, demonstrating Waverley's increasing influence in the maritime and tourism sectors. Onboard spending rose by a remarkable 125 per cent between 2015 and 2023, complementing a 30 per cent surge in passenger numbers over the same period.
The assessment also pinpointed 184 full-time equivalent jobs associated with Waverley, compared to 136 in 2015.
Remarkably, Waverley's presence injects approximately £1.4 million each year into the Argyll and Bute local economy. Beyond financial contributions, the steamboat also represents maritime history, attracting passengers across generations with its nostalgic appeal.
Tickets for sailings across the 2024 season can be reserved online or via telephone.
This year, Waverley returns to Eastbourne and Folkestone after over two decades, offering cruises to witness Beachy Head and the White Cliffs of Dover.
Waverley aims to offer the public access to a living and working steam heritage attraction of significant national and international value.
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