Historic paddle steamer hit by extra fuel costs

Passengers on the world's last seagoing paddle steamer, which returns to the Bristol Channel this week, face a surcharge to ticket prices because of increased fuel costs related to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Managers of The Waverley said fuel costs have gone up by 65% this year, "which is more than we can possibly bear".

The paddle steamer is offering trips from Clevedon, Minehead and Weston-super-Mare from Thursday until Wednesday 17 June, and will add an extra fee of up to £4 to tickets to cover the increased costs.

A spokesperson for Waverley said without the surcharge, the company would not have sufficient funds to cover the boat's winter refit.

Based in Glasgow, The Waverley is celebrating 80 years of service in 2026 and will carry passengers on trips all around Great Britain to mark the milestone.

However, the ongoing fuel crisis caused by the war in Iran means fuel for The Waverley is costing £3,000 more per day compared to 2025.

"Unfortunately we are now facing a severe price increase of over 65% compared to 2025," a spokesperson said.

"This level of increase is more than we can possibly bear or there will not be sufficient funds available for the 2026-27 winter refit and dry docking."

A surcharge of £2 will be applicable on adult or senior fares under £46, or £4 on adult and senior fares set at £46 or more.

Karen Brixey from Clevedon Pier said it was important The Waverley's visits continued because they helped keep the pier open.

She said: "It helps raise money to maintain the pier because it costs over £160,000 a year to keep it standing and keep it open for the public.

"It's the one opportunity a year you get to see Clevedon Pier as the Victorians intended it, to have a boat docking at the end, so it's really magical."

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