THREE visits to Minehead this summer have been included in the Bristol Channel timetable released this week for the world’s last remaining seagoing paddle steamer, the Waverley.

The iconic vessel will cruise the channel for three weeks from the end of May into June after a successful return in 2023 for the first time in five years.

Minehead will be a port of call on Sunday, June 2, Tuesday, June 4, and Thursday, June 20, the latter two dates including a steam train trip on the West Somerset Railway.

This year marks the 45th anniversary since Waverley first visited the Bristol Channel and South Wales in 1979, sailing in the wake of the famous White Funnel Fleet of pleasure steamers which operated until the 60s.

Waverley general manager, Paul Semple said: “I am delighted Waverley will be returning to the Bristol Channel for a longer period this summer given the level of demand we saw last year, with a more extensive selection of cruises on offer.

“Waverley offers a truly unique experience and I know many will be excited to review our 2024 sailing programme which has just been published.”

To launch her sailings on the Bristol Channel Mr Semple said there were several special offers available with ‘Kids For £1’ and a popular ‘Seniors Bring a Friend Free’ on some cruises, while NHS workers can claim a 15 per cent discount when booking in advance here.

The Bristol Channel season will start on May 30 and close on June 23.