THE World’s last seagoing paddle steamer which is returning to Llandudno this year has been awarded the prestigious status of National Flagship of the Year.

The award, by National Historic Ships UK, recognises the breadth and geographic coverage of Waverley’s sailings in addition to the extended sailing programme planned for 2024 with a record beating 70 ports and piers included within this year’s cruising itinerary.

Throughout the season, Waverley will proudly fly a special Flagship Pennant to denote her national status and receive an engraved brass plaque.

The Flagship of the Year status has been awarded annually by National Historic Ships UK since 2009 to spotlight vessels on the National Register of Historic Vessels, celebrating their significance and historical value.

Sir Timothy Laurence, husband of Her Royal Highness Princess Anne and Patron of Paddle Steamer Waverley, said: “I am delighted that Waverley has been awarded the title of National Flagship 2024. This reflects not only the very positive impression she has created around the UK in recent years but also the economic benefit she generates wherever she goes.

"My congratulations to the Waverley team for this well-deserved award.”

Waverley’s ambitious 2024 sailing programme gets underway on Friday, May 17 with a weekend of sailings on the Clyde Coast before she sets course for Oban and the Inner Hebrides. As May turns to June, Waverley heads south for the Bristol Channel where her sailings last summer were so well received almost all were sold out in advance.

Following Waverley’s successful 2023 season an independent Economic Impact Assessment concluded that passengers aboard the historic vessel contributed an impressive £11.6 million to UK economy, with £6 million in Scotland and £5.6 million across the rest of the UK. This substantial increase represents a remarkable 107 per cent rise from 2015 figures.

Moreover, the assessment highlighted a significant boost in average passenger expenditure, with onboard spending soaring by 125 per cent between 2015 and 2023. This increase, coupled with a nearly 30 per cent rise in passenger numbers since 2015, underscores Waverley's expanding appeal and economic significance.

The Waverley supports about 184 full-time equivalent jobs, compared to 136 in 2015. At the local level, Waverley's presence in Argyll and Bute contributes an estimated £1.4 million annually to the economy. 

Beyond the ship’s economic contributions, Waverley stands as a symbol of maritime history and heritage, attracting passengers across a range of generations with her nostalgic charm. Now, 50 years on since being gifted for £1, Waverley engages tens of thousands of passengers and supporters each year with her cruises in several areas of the UK.

Waverley will visit North Wales and the Mersey from Monday, June 24 to Wednesday, June 26 with her first visit to Holyhead this century.

Sailings centre on the popular resort of Llandudno with its grand Victorian pier. Waverley will offer afternoon cruises along the North Anglesey Coast with stunning views of Great Orme.