PASSENGERS can take a trip from Southend Pier on the Waverley, the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world.
The historic ship and her consort, the Balmoral, are now operated by a charity and carry some 250,000 passengers each year along the coasts and rivers of the UK and Ireland.
Cruises depart from Southend and Clacton to destinations including Southwold and Whitstable. Alternatively, passengers can join a cruise to discover the hidden secrets of the rivers Medway, Orwell or Blackwater, or steam up the Thames to sail through Tower Bridge.
The Waverley was built on the River Clyde in 1947 and its maritime history has now been recognised with its inclusion in the National Historic Ship's Register.
The Paddle Steamer Preservation Society bought the 693 tonne vessel in 1974 for £1.
Since then, both ships have been restored with the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund, with the Waverley returned to her original 1947 condition and the Balmoral recapturing its traditional passenger lounges.
For more information, visit www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk or call 0845 130 4647.
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