In Pictures: Waverley Paddle Steamer back at sea 75 years after maiden voyage

The last seagoing, passenger-carrying paddle steamer in the world was put through its paces on Thursday 75 years after its maiden voyage.

Built in 1946, the Waverley Paddle Steamer sailed from Craigendoran on the Firth of Clyde to Arrochar on Loch Long until 1973.

Nowadays, the ageing vessel takes passengers on excursions around the British coast and welcomed more on board on Thursday as it moved into its 76th year of service.

Waverley Paddle Steamer
The Waverley Paddle Steamer leaves Greenock (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Waverley Paddle Steamer
An on-board model of the steamer (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Waverley Paddle Steamer
Capt McCall surveys operations from the bridge (Andrew Milligan/PA)

She is something of a showbusiness star with appearances including in Guy Ritchie’s film Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows, according to www.paddlesteamers.org.

Waverley Paddle Steamer
Capt McCall with crew members (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Waverley Paddle Steamer
A rear view of the steamer (Andrew Milligan/PA)

A piper was on hand as passengers boarded for their journey on a steamer – named after Sir Walter Scott’s novel – that has been part of the Clyde’s history since it was built there.

Waverley Paddle Steamer
The vessel has been in operation for 75 years (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Waverley Paddle Steamer
A crew member onboard the steamer before it leaves Greenock (Andrew Milligan/PA)

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