A nostalgic steamship cruise on the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer awaits! Board the mighty Waverley and experience the sights, sounds and thrills of this magnificent steamship. Cruise around Loch Long and Loch Goil on Waverley and combine with a comprehensive tour of Ayrshire and Bute.
Day 1 SATURDAY We make our way north, with suitable refreshment stops provided, to our overnight hotel in Cumbria.
Day 2 SUNDAY We travel north to Irvine, arriving late afternoon at the Riverside Lodge Hotel for our four-night stay.
Day 3 MONDAY This morning we head to Wemyss Bay to catch the ferry to Bute. On arrival we visit neo-gothic Mount Stuart, one of the most technologically advanced houses of its age, set in 300 acres of landscaped gardens, woodland and coast. Afterwards we take a scenic tour around the island, finishing in Rothesay where we catch the ferry back to the mainland.
Day 4 TUESDAY This morning we visit Dumfries House, one of Britain's most beautiful stately homes and best kept secrets, with sumptuous interiors and furnishings all set around 2000 acres of land. In 2007 King Charles III headed a consortium of charities to purchase the house in order to keep this historical jewel intact and accessible to the public. We include a sandwich lunch here before making the short journey to the Ayrshire coast where we visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. The museum is a celebration of the early life and the enduring legacy of Scotland's national poet and home to 5,000 Burns artefacts including his handwritten manuscripts.
Day 5 WEDNESDAY The highlight of our tour, we enjoy a return cruise on the famous Waverley Paddle Steamer, the world's last seagoing paddle steamer, around Loch Long and Loch Goil from Largs or Greenock, with entertaining commentary highlighting the passing points of interest. Our cruise lasts 6 hrs 40 mins and on board we may visit the Engine Room to experience the sights and sounds of this magnificent steamship - hear the telegraph ring, watch the engine start to move and see the paddles turning through the portholes. We enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from the decks as we sail around. There is a souvenir shop as well as several options on board for snacks, drinks and hot food. Sensible footwear is advisable as well as sunscreen and a sweater (even in summer it may be chilly).
Day 6 THURSDAY We depart Scotland after breakfast, travelling through the scenic Borders region to our overnight hotel in the Lancashire area.
Day 7 FRIDAY We make our way south, with refreshment stops en-route, arriving home during the late afternoon.
Located on the outskirts of Irvine, the recently refurbished Riverside Lodge Hotel offers stylish, comfortable accommodation in very pleasant surrounds. The fresh and airy bedrooms feature TV, telephone, Wi-Fi, ironing board, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is an open plan reception, a cosy, contemporary restaurant and spacious lounge bar. There is no lift, and rooms are spread over the ground and first floor.
