THE last seafaring paddle steamer in the world is preparing to welcome passengers back in June – as the 75th anniversary of its launch approaches.

Operator Waverley Excursions said the 74-year-old boat was planning to welcome back passengers in the week of June 21, carrying a third of passengers due to social distancing.

It only sailed for two weeks last year due to the pandemic, and a crash at Brodick, Isle of Arran, in which 24 of the 239 passengers and crew were injured.

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Glasgow Times:

The setbacks came as a major blow after Waverley was unable to operate in 2019 for only the second season in her history while she underwent a £2.3 million life-saving boiler replacement.

The ship is now being prepared for service after returning to her home beside Glasgow Science Centre following completion of repairs to her bow two weeks ago.

Last month, it was announced a male victim had received a five-figure payout after suffering a broken arm, among three out of court settlements.

An undisclosed number of other cases are still being pursued.

Waverley Excursions general manager Paul Semple said: “We haven’t published the timetable yet but are in the process of confirming dates and times with all the Clyde piers.

"We are currently working towards starting passenger sailings during the week of June 21.

“Given the current Scottish Government guidance on physical distancing, we will be operating at a reduced capacity of 35 per cent.

"We will initially publish a sailing programme for the Clyde and take a decision later on whether Waverley can go south this year towards the end of August.

“Waverley returned to Glasgow on May 13 after dry docking and the bow repair.

"We are carrying out further maintenance works ahead of crewing her for the season.

"We are currently recruiting crew.”

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The vessel was launched in October 1946 and made her maiden voyage the following year to Arrochar on Loch Long.

She has since regularly toured the UK, with her Clyde sailings continuing a 200-year-old steamer tradition begun with the Comet in 1812.

Tourism agency VisitScotland praised Waverley as a “powerful and emotive” symbol.

Regional director for Argyll and East and West Dunbartonshire David Adams McGilp said: “It is fitting visitors can enjoy the Waverley once again, as we continue our celebration of Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters and in the 75th anniversary year of the Waverley’s launch.

“The last sea-going paddle steamer is a powerful and emotive part of the story of innovation on the Clyde, with a special place in Scottish maritime history.

"The Waverly brings visitors and revenue into communities she berths at, and for individuals enjoying our coastline from the open water, is a relaxing and calming way to experience travel.

"Tourism is a force for good – creating economic and social value in every corner of Scotland and enhancing the well-being of everyone who experiences it.”