Historic paddle steamer hit by extra fuel costs

The Waverley, the world's last seagoing paddle steamer, returns to the Bristol Channel this week, but passengers face a fuel surcharge as costs rise due to conflicts in the Middle East. Management says fuel costs have surged 65% this year, equating to about £3,000 more per day than 2025, threatening funds for the 2026-27 winter refit. Trips run from Clevedon, Minehead, and Weston-super-Mare from Thursday to Wednesday, 17 June, with surcharges of up to £4 for fares at £46 or more and £2 for cheaper tickets. The company argues the surcharge is essential to sustain operations and public access to this historic vessel.