Waverley was extensively rebuilt during 2000 and 2003 with the aim of restoring her original 1947 appearance whilst complying with all relevant modern marine safety legislation.
The first phase is covered in detail here whilst this and subsequent pages tell the story of the second, or Completion Phase of the rebuild through approximately 300 photographs.
The rebuild of Waverley is not really about replacing old with new. The project is driven by a regime of conservation, not renewal.
Iain McMillan, Project Director Waverley Excursions Ltd
Chief Photographer and Project Manager Gordon Reid stands beneath Waverley’s paddle wheels.Nick James
Chief Photographer and Project Manager Gordon Reid stands beneath Waverley’s paddle wheels.Nick James
Whilst the first phase concentrated on the mid and aft areas of the ship, the Completion Phase focused on the bow, including the installation of a bow rudder and all work deferred from Phase 1.
On 17th May 2002, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) announced their approval of grant to enable the Completion Phase of the Heritage Rebuild to go ahead. Partnership funding also came from Glasgow City Council and the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society.
In October 2002 the contract was awarded to George Prior Engineering Ltd of Great Yarmouth, the yard where the first phase of the rebuild was carried out during 2000.
Waverley steamed from Bristol to Great Yarmouth later the same month, returning to the Clyde eight months later in June 2003.
Waverley on a barge, part way through the Completion Phase of the Heritage Rebuild.Guy Frankham
Whilst the quality of the contemporary digital images is variable their value in telling the story of Waverley is priceless.
Progress Update - Re-floating, National Historic Ships Register & Rudders
06-Feb
Final Work on Lifting Barge
07-Feb
Refloating Operation & First Webcam Picture
12-Feb
Crankshaft Refurbishment
14-Feb
Around the Ship with Andrew Gladwell
21-Feb
Mast, Decking & Crew Accommodation
27-Feb
More Masts, Promenade Decking & Riveting
10-Mar
Forward Deck Shelter Lifted on Board
11-Mar
Riveting & Decking Progress
13-Mar
Progress Report
15-Mar
First PSPS Visit to George Prior's Shipyard
27-Mar
Around the Paddler
31-Mar
View Across the Yare
02-Apr
In-situ Boring, Condenser Re-tubing & Paddle Float Construction
16-Apr
Main Engine Crankshaft Reinstated
30-Apr
Inspection of Refurbished Valves
03-May
Second PSPS Visit to George Prior's Shipyard
22-May
(Brief) Progress Report
04-Jun
Sea Trials
08-Jun
Finishing Touches
09-Jun
Farewell to Great Yarmouth
10-Jun
Douglas McGowan Press Release
11-Jun
The Voyage North-About
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