The world's last seagoing paddle steamer is returning to Kent.

Locals and visitors alike will get the the opportunity to step aboard the Waverley for a nostalgic trip when it docks into Gravesend Town Pier later this month.

In 2022 the historic ship sailed past the county for the first time in four years after last being seen on the river in 2018.

Building on the success of Waverley’s highly popular trips up the Thames to sail under Tower Bridge are several new themed cruises.

A “Swinging Sixties” pirate radio cruise will take place on Sunday, October 6.

This day offers a ‘sailing down memory lane’ complete with live 60s music from Adam Knight’s 60s Roadshow, performances by DJs from various pirate radio stations, and an up-close look at the historic Thames Forts.

The grand finale of Waverley’s Gravesend sailings will take place on October 13 with an historic ships parade which will see the ship meet and sail alongside other historic vessels, including the Steam Tug Challenge.

Passengers will also have the rare opportunity to steam up the River Thames at dusk, passing through the Flood Barrier and sailing around the Isle of Dogs.

As Waverley continues up the Thames, it will take in views of the O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, and Greenwich before approaching Tower Bridge, which will open exclusively for her arrival.

Speaking ahead of the Gravesend sailings, Captain Dominic McCall, said: “Waverley’s return to London and the Thames Estuary is always a special occasion, and this year is particularly significant.

“We’re offering more special event cruises than ever before, allowing passengers to experience Waverley while enjoying one-of-a-kind sailing.

“From historic anniversaries to pirate radio, there’s something for everyone onboard Waverley.

“We look forward to welcoming both locals and visitors for what promises to be an unforgettable series of cruises.”

The vessel was built in 1946 and made her maiden voyage a year later along Loch Long and Long Goil in Scotland.

In 1974, the ship was sold for £1 and then operated in preservation the following year.

In 2019, it was announced Waverley would be withdrawn from service and needed new boilers if she was to ever sail again.

Thanks to public funding it was replaced and major refurbishment works were completed.

Sailings on the Thames, with departures from Gravesend, are running from Friday September 27 to Sunday October 13.