Purser

“On behalf of the Officers and Crew of the vessels I would like to wish you a enjoyable trip aboard our ships. Whether you are coming aboard to travel to an exciting destination, for the nostalgia of days gone by or simply to let a world of fantastic scenery slip by as you relax on deck – you are guaranteed to have a great day out!” Jim McFadzean, Purser

Waverley is one of the world’s greatest historic ships – the last seagoing paddle steamer in the world - magnificently restored with towering funnels, timber decks and gleaming varnish and brass. You can see and hear the mighty steam engines as they propel the paddles that take Waverley majestically through the sea. Each year, Waverley starts her season sailing amidst the stunning scenery of the Western Isles of Scotland in May, the Bristol Channel in spring, the Firth of Clyde in the summer before moving to the South Coast of England in September and the Thames in October.

Her consort Balmoral, also recently restored, traditionally travels around the Irish Sea in June, the Thames in July and then plies her trade between the South Wales Heritage Coast and the North Somerset and Devon Coasts (the Bristol channel) until September.

Interview with a Purser

2010 Waverley marked the 70th Anniversary of Dunkirk but it was also an important season for Purser Jim McFadzean aka 'Jimmy Tickets', who retired in October after 23 years in the job! His friendly, familiar face is sure to be missed by crew and passengers alike! We caught up with him before he finished the sailing season and asked about his time aboard Waverley.

What's your most memorable cruise and why?
Leaving Ramsgate with a full ship to welcome the small ships from Dunkirk. The atmosphere was electric with thousands of people lining the quayside. A close second would have to be escorting the Matthew down the River Avon.

What destination do you look forward to all year?
The week in the Western Isles, Scotland- it's the only time both passengers and crew have a chance to socialise ashore.

What's the strangest request you've ever had on the ship?
To propose to somebody on someone else's behalf- I've done it twice! Fortunately the answer on both occasions was yes.

The strangest piece of lost property?
Somebody's wooden leg- the owner fortunately was not on board- someone else was looking after it!

What 3 home comforts do you miss most during the season?
1. My own bed- nothing is ever the same
2. A big couch to stretch out on
3. Having friends round for meals and drinks

Who would you least like to share a cabin with?
The Krankies- they would (and do) drive me potty!!!

What's been the most memorable moment of your time at Waverley?
For myself and my partner to be invited as guests on the evening charter for Timothy West & Prunella Scales Ruby Wedding- for me that was the best evening ever on Waverley!

What will you miss most?
Waverley, the Crew, the Passengers and the Scenery- all in equal amounts!

So what's next for Jim McFadzean?
To enjoy life and to do things that other people take for granted like going for a day out when I want to go for a day out, attend family occasions- go where I want, when I want!

Will you still be a familiar face aboard Waverley's sailings?
Try stopping me! You don't get rid of me that easily!