WATCH: Waverley paddle steamer arrives back in Glasgow after pier collision

The world’s last sea-going paddle steamer returned to Glasgow today under her own power, six days after hitting a pier at Brodick on Arran.

The 73-year-old vessel arrived at her home at Pacific Quay beside the Glasgow Science Centre, where she will be laid up for the winter.

Temporary repairs to seal her bows were made before the voyage up the Clyde.

An investigation is underway into the incident last Thursday, in which 24 passengers and crew were injured.

Waverley passing the Riverside Museum in Glasgow today en route to her berth at Pacific Quay. Picture: John Devlin

Several were taken to hospital treatment, who are understood to have all been discharged.

The vessel was able to be moved following the completion of work aboard by the UK Department for Transport’s marine accident investigation branch (MAIB).

Waverley Excursions, which operates the vessel, said she would not immediately be going into dry dock for repairs.

All further sailings for the season, which had been extended to 12 September, have been cancelled.

Passing the Tall Ship SS Glenlee in Glasgow today. Picture: John Devlin

BACKGROUND: Stranded Waverley passengers rescued after 24 hurt when steamer hit pier

Waverley Excursions general manager Paul Semple told The Scotsman: “Repairs will be done prior to the start of next year’s season, so there is no rush to complete them now.”

Mr Semple said he expected the MAIB investigation to take some time.

The crash happened weeks after Waverley had returned to service last month following an absence of two years – the longest in her history – because of a £2.3 million boiler refit and the coronavirus lockdown.

Waverley en route up the Clyde from Brodick to Glasgow today. Picture: John Devlin

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Waverley passes under the Erskine Bridge en route to her home in Glasgow today. Picture: John Devlin

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