The Royal Yacht Britannia

King George VI commissioned the Royal Yacht Britannia, but he tragically passed away before she could be launched by John Brown & Co. near Glasgow in 1953. In total 83 Royal Yachts were built for the British Royal Family, the last of which was this famed ship.

A step back in time

In many ways a visit to this famous ship is stepping into a bygone era. From the bridge and service areas to the Royal Apartments and banqueting rooms, this four-deck tour gives you a true insight into life on board. Britannia was a floating palace that served as a venue for banquets and receptions and as a floating residence for the royal family. Regardless of where in the world dinner was served, guests were guaranteed to receive outstanding service and cuisine.

Those guests include many world leaders who have gathered at the Royal Apartments, including Sir Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, and Ronald Reagan. In 1981 The Bridal suite was specially commissioned for the honeymoon of Prince Diana and Prince Charles.

Learn about the ship’s engine room and its complex generators and controls, as well as the ship’s laundry, which is the only 24 hour laundry service available in the British Naval fleet. As part of the ship’s conversion to a museum, a 1965 Royal Rolls Royce Phantom was re-installed on the deck, as well as other interesting exhibits.

Over the 44-year period since she entered service and only a year after Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, Britannia and Queen Elizabeth have enjoyed a close and affectionate relationship.

Decommissioning the Royal Yacht

After 99 years under British rule, Britannia’s last official call of duty was to hand over the British territory of Hong Kong to the Chinese in 1997. Britannia provided passage to the Governor and Prince Charles out of the territory for the final time. Throughout the ship, all of the clocks remain stopped at 3:01 p.m., which was exactly the time the Queen left Britannia for the last time.

The Queen visibly shed a tear at the decommissioning ceremony, which is the only time she has displayed emotion during her reign.

Permanent museum in Edinburgh

Britannia is now permanently moored in the Leith Docks area of Edinburgh, immediately adjacent the Ocean Terminal shopping centre. The visit offers an interesting insight into the Royal Family and British culture during her service. This access most areas tour across 4 decks will give you a real appreciation for life onboard, from the bridge and service areas of the ship to the Royal Apartments and banqueting room.