THE Waverley set sail from Llandudno Pier this afternoon for the first time in five years. 

The world’s last seagoing paddle steamer is making two trips from Llandudno - one today (June 20) and one tomorrow (June 21).

Crowds of people headed to the pier to watch the vessel head out on her cruise around the Great Orme and Puffin Island.

On Wednesday, she will take passengers on a cruise of Anglesey Coast.

North Wales Pioneer: The Waverley makes its way towards the Great Orme on Tuesday, June 20.The Waverley makes its way towards the Great Orme on Tuesday, June 20. (Image: Suzanne Kendrick)

This morning she sailed from Liverpool to Llandudno. She will be making her return from Llandudno to Liverpool later.

The same journeys will be carried out tomorrow. 

More than 1,800 passengers are booked to travel over the next two days. 

North Wales Pioneer: Crowds gathered on Llandudno Pier to see the Waverley set off on her journey.Crowds gathered on Llandudno Pier to see the Waverley set off on her journey. (Image: Suzanne Kendrick)

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North Wales Pioneer: Drone image of the Waverley off Llandudno Pier on June 20 2023.Drone image of the Waverley off Llandudno Pier on June 20 2023. (Image: Adam Evans)

Paul Semple, General Manager, said: "We are delighted to be returning Waverley to Liverpool and Llandudno for the first time since 2018. When we announced Waverley would make a brief visit to the Mersey tickets sold out very quickly such was the level of interest in the ship.

North Wales Pioneer: The Waverley sets off from Llandudno Pier on June 20.The Waverley sets off from Llandudno Pier on June 20. (Image: Suzanne Kendrick)

"We are grateful to the Isle of Man Steam Packet Co for being able to provide a berth for Waverley in Liverpool. This season sees the ship operating her most ambitious sailing programme for over a decade, Liverpool therefore had to feature."