The Royal Yacht Britannia

Britannia 1953 - 1997

To Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family, Britannia proved to be the perfect Royal residence for glittering state visits, official receptions, royal honeymoons and relaxing family holidays.

So as you can imagine this unique vessel has a fascinating story to tell. And now that she has made Edinburgh's historic port of Leith her final home you can discover the Visitor Centre. The experience starts in the Visitor Centre. It is located on the second floor of Ocean Terminal, Edinburgh's stylish new waterfront shopping and leisure development.

History
Launched on the 16th April 1953 at John Brown's Shipyard in Clydebank, the Royal Yacht Britannia continued an unbroken tradition of Royal Yachts stretching back 300 years, to the reign of Charles II.

The Royal Picture Gallery
Enjoy some of the wonderful photographs taken of all generations of the Royal Family on Britannia, many of which have never previously been on public display.

The Wheelhouse
The Wheelhouse, originally situated on the deck below the Bridge, is now reconstructed in the Visitor Centre.

Then step aboard Britannia for a self-led audio tour which takes you around five decks giving a unique insight in to what life was like for the Royal Family, Officers and Yachtsmen.

On Board Britannia

The Bridge
You start the tour at the top of the Yacht, standing on the very spot from where Britannia's Captains guided her around the globe.

The Sun Lounge
The Sun Lounge on the Verandah deck was a private place for the Royal Family. Strictly off limits until now.

The Admiral's Cabin and Quarters
Visit the spacious and relaxing quarters where the Admiral worked, entertained and often ate during his time on board.

The Queen's Sitting Room
Relaxed and peaceful, each of The Royal Apartments brings back memories of another time.

The State Dining Room
This is the largest and grandest room on board, where some of the world's most famous and powerful figures have dined with Her Majesty The Queen.

The Royal Barge
The Royal Barge is the vessel in which the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh would travel ashore when Britannia was anchored in harbours around the world.

The Chief Petty Officers' Mess
This elegant white panelled room was the Warrant Officers' and Chief Petty Officers' Mess.

The Sick Bay and Operating Theatre
Visit the ship's Sick Bay and adjoining Operating Theatre with their original 1950s fittings.

The Laundry
Britannia was the only ship in the Royal Navy to have a laundry permanently manned by her own crew.

The Engine Room
Your tour ends with the spectacular Engine Room, still gleaming as it did throughout its active life.

After your tour, you can visit the Royal Yacht Britannia shop where you can choose from a fine selecton of exclusive and quality giftwear.

More Pictures