Exactly 60 years to the day of her launch, Balmoral leaves Southampton for a Diamond Jubilee cruise to Cowes (via Portsmouth) and around the Isle of Wight - a regular summer excursion for this famous ship.

Balmoral was built in Southampton for Red Funnel by J Thornycroft & Co. Ltd, Woolston. She was launched on 27 June 1949 and proudly served the Company until 1969. She then moved round to the Bristol Channel where she became the last member of P&A Campbell’s famous White Funnel Fleet. When they ceased operation in 1980, Balmoral moved to Dundee to become a floating restaurant, and there she stood, unsuccessful & gradually falling into disrepair, until she was rescued by the friends & supporters of the Waverley.

She returned to service in 1986 and to this day operates her main summer season in the Bristol Channel, offering day excursions to popular Coastal Resorts, as well as making visits to other ports & piers throughout the UK.

In Winter 2002, Balmoral was fitted with new engines and additional improvements over recent years were made to enhance passenger comfort thanks to funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Public Sector, local Councils, Supporter Societies and on-board activities.