IT WAS here and we have the photos to prove it!

The famous Waverley steamboat docked at Penarth Pier today, Tuesday, as it begins its summer tour of the Bristol Channel.

Penarth Times: The Waverley docks at Penarth Pier on June 6The Waverley docks at Penarth Pier on June 6 (Image: Newsquest)

Watch the amazing video below as the world-famous Waverley is boarded on Penarth Pier then sets off across the Channel.

On June 6, hundreds of people queued along the famous old pier at Penarth to board the Waverley.

The famous old boat was heading from Penarth at 12.15pm heading to Ilfracombe for 3.10pm and will return to Penarth at 8.30pm.

Penarth Times: It was choppy conditions for the journey which began just after middayIt was choppy conditions for the journey which began just after midday (Image: Newsquest)

See when the Waverley will be in Penarth this summer, below

The famous red and black funnels stood strong, but rocked a little on what was blustery conditions for the journey.

Penarth Times: Hundreds queued to board the ship which has a capacity of 650 to 750 depending on the weatherHundreds queued to board the ship which has a capacity of 650 to 750 depending on the weather (Image: Newsquest)

The Waverley has been on the water since 1947, and first underwent restoration in 1975, when kids paid £1 to travel - the same price currently charged for over-fives.

Watch the video below as the Waverley sets off across the Bristol Channel

The 76-year-old vessel has been subject to massive refurbishment projects to keep it shipshape.

In the last 20 years, the much-loved vessel has undergone a £7 million heritage rebuild.

Most recently £180,000 was raised in two months to pay for dry-docking.

Penarth Times: The Waverley was headed to IlfracombeThe Waverley was headed to Ilfracombe (Image: Newsquest)

When will the Waverley be in Penarth?

  • June 07: 11:15 / 20:15;
  • June 10: 10:00 / 21:15;
  • June 11: 11:15 / 16:15;
  • June 13: 12:15 / 19:00;
  • June 15: 09:00 / 14:15 / 19:00;
  • June 16: 09:00 / 19:45;
  • June 17: 10:30 / 20:00.

Penarth Times: The Waverley on the move across the channelThe Waverley on the move across the channel (Image: Newsquest)

Watch the video below as hundreds queue to board the Waverley in Penarth

'This summer Waverley will offer some delightful cruises'

Paul Semple, Waverley’s manager, said it was a big year for the ship.

"This year we are taking Waverley to an increased number of ports and piers as we look to broaden her appeal to the greatest number of people,” said Mr Semple.

"This summer Waverley will offer some delightful cruises with a variety that no other historic seagoing vessel can match.

"We are confident that by taking Waverley to so many areas around the UK will help ensure her continued survival as a fully operational steamship.

"As Waverley approaches her 50th anniversary in preservation and having carried well over six million passengers, the challenge is no easier to operate and maintain a remarkable piece of our proud maritime heritage.

Penarth Times: The Waverley at the end of Penarth PierThe Waverley at the end of Penarth Pier (Image: Newsquest)

"Everyone that sails helps to ensure Waverley’s paddles keep turning.

"We are exceptionally grateful to all those who supported the recent appeal to meet the cost of Waverley’s annual dry docking which took place in March ahead of the 2023 season.

"Over 2,000 people donated with £180,000 being raised in just two months."

To find out more about the Waverley, where it’s going and how to get tickets, go to: https://waverleyexcursions.co.uk/.