The iconic Waverley has paddled again after almost two years out of action.
The world’s last seagoing paddle steamer returned to the water for trials after an extensive boiler refit at Dales Marine in Greenock.
It was a welcome sight for eager spotters who pictured it as it sailed towards the Holy Loch, Loch Long and Bute.
The work to save the steamer, which has taken generations of Scots on trips ‘doon the watter’ as well as cruising the Thames and Bristol Channel, was made possible after a fundraising campaign.
The Boiler Refit Appeal raised £2.3m from public donations, with £1m from the Scottish Government.
It’s hoped that the ship will be able to offer some cruises later this summer, with last year being the first in 45 years that there were no Waverley cruises on the Clyde.
A spokesperson for Waverley Excursions said: “Given the overwhelming support for Waverley we will strive to return her to service when it is right to do so.
“A final decision on whether she can operate this season with passengers has yet to be made.
“If Waverley is returned to service this year she will only be able to operate a short programme of cruises on the Clyde.
“She is starting to look ship shape.”
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