Cowes Maritime Museum

PS Waverley was built on the Clyde in 1947, to replace the original Waverley that sunk off Dunkirk in 1940. Originally built to sail only between Craigendorran & Arrochar in West Scotland. She now sails right round Britain offering regular trips from various ports & piers throughout the UK.

Driven by a 2,100-horse power triple expansion diagonal steam engine, this 693-tonne ship has two bars, dining saloon and accommodates up to 800 passengers.


2003 saw the completion of a major restoration project, which returned Waverley to the original 1940s style with which she was built. It is thought that this famous paddle steamer is probably the most photographed ship in the world!

This model was made by the late Edward Harvey Austin between 1992 and 1994. The impressive eight-foot model contains a working steam engine, which was tested on a garden pond.


Mr Austin was an officer cadet in the Merchant Navy. His ship was torpedoed and he later left the Navy to become a pilot in the Royal Air Force. He had a great interest and love of the sea and used to sail frequently at Cowes.


The model was kindly donated to the Island Heritage Service in December 2004.