By Isle of Wight Observer
The paddle steamer Waverley, the world’s last seagoing vessel of her kind, has launched a ‘Masts and Windows’ winter appeal, to raise £135,000 ahead of the 2026 sailing season.
The appeal will fund the replacement of both of Waverley’s masts and the windows in her dining saloon. These are central to the ship’s historic profile, and renewing them using traditional materials is considered essential to preserving her distinctive appearance.
Waverley’s general manager, Paul Semple, explained that while modern materials can sometimes offer greater durability, they can alter the ship’s look and character. He said preserving Waverley means maintaining the vessel as closely as possible to how she was designed and built, ensuring her unique heritage remains intact.
Although many refurbishment projects have been carried out during Waverley’s preservation career, it has not always been possible to fully retain her original 1947 character. Despite this, the charity remains committed to maintaining her traditional style wherever practical, even when this is not the most cost-efficient option.
The ship’s 2025–26 winter refit is now under way, with essential maintenance and several major investment projects in progress. These include replacing the fire sprinkler system, and renewing the port paddle-box spring beam. Together, these works will cost more than £500,000, and are being jointly funded by the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society and Waverley’s owning charity.
Supporters are being asked to help raise the £135,000 needed to complete the masts and windows work by March 2026. Donations large and small are welcomed, and will help prepare Waverley for the 2026 season, when she will mark the 80th anniversary of her launch.
Donations can be made on-line at iw.observer/waverley-donate, or by contacting Waverley’s booking office on 243 2224.
Waverley is due to return to the south coast and Isle of Wight in early September 2026, with timetable details released in March.