One of Billy Connolly’s one-liners starts “In Scotland
there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing”. Whilst the
punch line is not suitable for a PSPS blog this phrase was certainly
appropriate for those of us who left Pacific Quay in lashing rain on Saturday
morning for a cruise to Loch Long that could best be described as atmospheric.
Sunday’s weather continued to be wet but with occasional
bright spells for the cruise to Tighnabruaich. Whether it was the promise of
some sunshine or it being the last day of the season, the ship was well loaded
and seemed packed when rain cleared the open decks.
The rain didn’t seem to dampen spirits and with many well-kent
faces on board there was much to chat about. For the steamer enthusiast there
was also good opportunities for retail therapy. The shop did a brisk trade and
had a full complement of shop keepers. In addition your PSPS branch organised a
sale of books and prints. The branch would like to thank the Friends of Wemyss
Bay Station for their donation of prints and paintings for this sale.
The rain kept off for the final run up the Clyde in the dark
with engines running at 50 rpm. With the final ring of the engine telegraph
signalled the end of the season, the ship arrived back at Pacific Quay at
20:00. For us passengers it was time to go home and look forward to May 2014. However,
as always, for the ship’s crew there was still work to do. So to conclude our
last sailing report of the season it is right to acknowledge the crew who do
much to make the great experience that is Waverley.
David Shirres
Saturday's wet departure Photo: David Shirres
Some sunshine on Sunday as Waverley arrives at Largs Photo: David Shirres
Tighnabruaich in the rain Photo: Roy Tait
A wet passage through the Kyles Photo: David Shirres
A collective noun for shopkeepers? Photo: David Shirres
Passing the Titan Photo: David Shirres
Full ahead up the Clyde with engines at 50 rpm
The season's final berth Photo: Roy Tait
