POPULAR river cruises from Southend Pier including a unique tour to the principality of Sealand have been cancelled as the Waverley is out of action.

Yesterday evening's cruise from Whitstable, Southend and Gravesend had to be cancelled after a small defect was found on one of the world's last sea-going paddle steamer's paddle wheels during inspections.

At the time, it was unclear whether this would affect any more cruises. Waverley Excursions, which maintains and operates the iconic ship, has confirmed today that the Waverley will be out of action until Friday. 

Today's cruises from Southend Pier have been cancelled as a result, which included trips between Clacton and Gravesend as well as a special sailing along the Essex coast and around the Principality of Sealand with special guest Prince Michael of Sealand aboard. 

A statement on the Waverley Excursions website says: "Waverley’s sailing has unfortunately had to be cancelled on Tuesday, October 8.

"During daily paddle wheel inspections on Monday October 7 a small defect was found in one of Waverley’s paddle wheels. As a precaution the ship is out of service on Tuesday to affect a repair.

"We are very sorry to cancel the sailing and the inconvenience this will cause our passengers. All those pre-booked have been contacted."

Tomorrow's sailings from Southwold and Clacton have also been cancelled, and the Waverley is due to return to service on Friday, October 11.