The worlds last seagoing paddle steamer Waverley is set to return to Southend next year.

The popular cruises will be returning to the pier in 2023 for some more Thames river cruises.

This follows the highly successful cruises it operated from Southend Pier this year, in September and October, to London Tower Bridge, Gravesend, River Medway and the Red Sands Forts.

Thousands of people enjoyed the unique experience of river cruises along the Thames on the Waverley.

It is set to operate the river cruises from September 22 to October 8 2023 from Southend Pier during its UK tour from its base in Glasgow.

The Waverley's 2023 timetable is set to be confirmed and is subject to change, so customers are encouraged to sign up to the e-newsletter at waverleyexcursions.co.uk to receive updates.

The historic paddle steamer celebrated its diamond jubilee 75th anniversary this year.

It was built in 1946 to replace the 1899 Waverley which was sunk by enemy action in 1940 at Dunkirk.

The Waverley can carry up to 900 passengers.

This photo taken by Simon Murdoch shows the Waverley arriving at Southend Pier during its visit in October 2022.