how much is the royal yacht britannia worth

The Royal Yacht Britannia Has a Fascinating History—Here's Everything You Should Know

It doesn't get more majestic than Queen Elizabeth II's yacht.

“Britannia is special for a number of reasons,” Prince Phillip once said. “Almost every previous sovereign has been responsible for building a church, a castle, a palace or just a house. The only comparable structure in the present reign is Britannia. As such she is a splendid example of contemporary British design and technology.”

Although she retired from service in 1997, today the Britannia, one of many of the world's grandest yachts , is docked in Edinburgh, where she is open as a visitors’ attraction and host of private events. Below we give you all the Royal Yacht Britannia facts you might want to know, from who owns the yacht now to why she was decommissioned to how fast she is to how to get tickets to visit. Britannia was, after all, the one place the queen said she could “truly relax,” so why not see why for yourself?

Royal Yacht Britania Facts and History

On February 4, 1952, John Brown & Co shipyard in Clydebank, Scotland, received the order from the Admiralty to build a new Royal Yacht to travel the globe and double as a hospital ship in times of war, according to the royal yacht's website . King George VI passed away two days after, sadly, and so on April 16, 1953, the newly crowned Queen Elizabeth II announced the yacht’s new name as the ship was revealed.

"I name this ship Britannia,” she said. “I wish success to her and all who sail in her." Britannia was commissioned into the Royal Navy in January 1954 and by April of that year sailed into her first overseas port: Grand Harbour, Malta.

The queen and The Duke of Edinburgh worked with interior designer Sir Hugh Casson for the ship to serve as both a functional Royal Navy vessel and an elegant royal residence. Queen Elizabeth II selected deep blue for Britannia’s hull, instead of the more traditional black. Its Naval crew included 220 Yachtsmen, 20 officers, and three season officers—plus a Royal Marines Band of 26 men during Royal Tours.

All of them might have had to change uniform up to six times a day, so the laundry service on board worked nonstop. The yacht also engaged in British overseas trade missions known as Sea Days and made an estimated £3 billion for the Exchequer between 1991 and 1995 alone.

The ship’s wheel was taken from King Edward VII’s racing yacht, also named Britannia, according to Boat International , and the 126-meter ship could reach speeds of 22.75 knots, or a seagoing cruising speed of 21 knots, according to Super Yacht Times . Other fun facts: The yacht could produce her own fresh water from sea water, and shouting was forbidden aboard to preserve tranquility, favoring hand signals for Naval orders instead.

Over the next 44 years, the Britannia would sail the equivalent of once around the world for each year, in total visiting 600 ports in 135 countries. Princess Margaret and Anthony Armstrong-Jones were the first of four couples to honeymoon on the ship in 1960, gifting them all privacy to sail to secluded locations. Prince Charles and Princess Diana followed in 1981 on the Mediterranean as well as Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips before them in 1973 in the Caribbean and Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson in 1986 in the Azores.

For family vacations aboard the ship, games, treasure hunts, plays, and picnics were organized, and on warm days the children could play in an inflatable paddling pool on the Verandah Deck.

In the Sun Lounge, the queen especially enjoyed taking breakfast and afternoon tea with views through large picture windows, a space you can see replicated in the TV show The Crown. Although no filming took place on board the Britannia for the show, researchers ensured scenes aboard it were accurate. In the queen’s bedroom, the resemblance is seen down to the decorative wall light fittings and embroidered silk panel above her bed that had been specially commissioned.

In 1997, the ship was decommissioned after the government decided the costs to refit it would be too great. On its final day in her service that followed a farewell tour around the U.K., the queen openly wept as the Band of HM Royal Marines played "Highland Cathedral."

"Looking back over 44 years we can all reflect with pride and gratitude upon this great ship which has served the country, the Royal Navy and my family with such distinction," Queen Elizabeth II said. All clocks on the ship stopped at 15:01, the exact time the Queen disembarked from the yacht for the final time, and they would remain at that time until the present.

How to Tour the Royal Yacht Britania

Today the yacht is owned by Royal Yacht Britannia Trus t, and all revenue it generates goes to the yacht’s maintenance and preservation. Ticketed entry allows you to step into state rooms like the Sun Lounge, the State Dining Room and State Drawing Room, in addition to the working side of the ship in the Crew’s Quarters, Laundry and gleaming Engine Room. Along the way you will see original artifacts from the shop—95 percent of which is on loan from The Royal Collection.

How to Visit the Royal Britania

You can visit the Britannia any day of the year on Edinburgh’s waterfront. Hours vary by season, and you can find them listed and purchase tickets on the yacht’s website . Private tours are also available, and you can visit the Royal Deck Tearoom, where the Royal Family hosted cocktail parties and receptions, for drinks, meals and scones. Additionally, the Britannia hosts special ticketed events for New Year’s and other occasions, and event spaces can be booked as well.

While you are in Edinburgh, you can also stay on the Fingal , a neighboring yacht-turned-floating-hotel, which is a seven-minute walk from the Britannia, and dine at its Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar, which serves breakfast, afternoon tea, dinner, and cocktails.

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Royal yacht: Why Britannia will definitely cost more than £200m to build

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Boris Johnson has confirmed that there is to be a replacement for the Royal Yacht Britannia using new green technology.

The surprise announcement came in a statement from 10 Downing Street at the end of May. Rather than purely serving the British Royal Family, however, this new vessel will be a national ship rather than a private yacht – a floating embassy that will be operated by the Royal Navy.

The idea is that the new royal yacht will support working royals and government departments alike, while furthering the nation’s interests abroad, both commercial and strategic.

“Every aspect of this ship, from its build to the businesses it showcases, will represent and promote the best of British,” said Johnson, “a clear and powerful symbol of our commitment to be an active player on the world stage. It will be the first vessel of its kind in the world.”

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Following appropriate consultations with the Royal Family, the Royal Navy, Ministry of Defence, Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Treasury, the Government will put the design and construction out to tender. If all goes to plan the build could start as early as next year with a view to entering service by 2024.

Some critics had suggested that World Trade Organisation obligations would mean the tendering process would have to be open to overseas yards as well as British ones, but the fact it will be operated by the Royal Navy gives it ‘warship’ status and therefore renders her exempt.

Various sources have quoted ballpark figures of £200 million to build the new Royal Yacht Britannia but once a working specification has been drawn up for a suitably large yacht MBY expects this to rise considerably.

Superyacht designer Andrew Winch’s proposal was for a much larger craft

Everything will depend on how much space is needed for conferencing and entertainment areas as well as the number of staterooms, guest cabins and crew, not to mention helicopter and tenders, and the high levels of security needed to protect her passengers and guests.

How much will the new royal yacht cost?

So exactly how big will the new yacht be? Length is not the key metric for superyachts ; usable volume measured in gross tonnage is the name of the game.

£200 million sounds a lot and could buy an impressive 280ft (86m) quad-deck superyacht with a volume of around 2,500GT from a superyacht yard, but a ship of that length is unlikely to be big enough.

The old Britannia measured 421ft and 5,769GT. The Royal Navy is unlikely to spend less than £100,000 per tonne today for such a vessel and will probably end up spending a significant amount more given that this would be a full-custom project. We suspect the final bill for New Britannia is likely to be more like £600 million.

The New Flagship Company also produced this rendering to try and win private backing for a Britannia replacement

This isn’t the first time a new royal yacht has been mooted. Businessman Ian Maiden launched the New Flagship Company in 2001 to try and garner private backing for a similar national ship to promote the UK and Commonwealth’s business interests. Superyacht designer Andrew Winch also drafted plans for a new royal megayacht.

As far as we know neither of these designs have been adopted by Number 10, which released its own uncredited rendering of what the new Royal Yacht Britannia might look like . One man that has had a bigger hand than most is Craig Mackinlay, Conservative MP for South Thanet, who recently led a cross-party campaign supported by no fewer than 70 MPs.

Mackinlay is a lifelong sailor and the commodore of the House of Commons Yacht Club, and his most recent submission seems to have influenced the government’s statement. Some have suggested that an alternative to a brand-new yacht could be a keel-up rebuild of the old Royal Yacht Britannia , which is now lying alongside in Leith, Edinburgh.

Winch’s design was first proposed in 2016

She was formally retired in 1997 after 44 years of service and over 1 million nautical miles. Until recently she has been open to the public. Any new Royal Yacht Britannia is expected to have a service life of at least 30 years.

The expert view

“The debate about how or even whether to replace the Royal Yacht Britannia has been gong on for as long as I’ve been editor and seems to crop up every few years when there’s no real news to talk about,” says MBY editor Hugo Andreae.

“But this time it’s different, this time it’s government policy – at least until Boris changes his mind, which has been known to happen!

“I sincerely hope he doesn’t because a new Royal Yacht Britannia really could invigorate British ship building and cast fresh light on the amazing leisure boat industry we do still have.

“But if we’re going to do it, please don’t skimp on the budget. We don’t want Britannia being overshadowed by a tasteless megayacht belonging to some shady despot!”

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Everything you need to know about Queen Elizabeth’s Yacht Britannia

HMY Britannia by Tower Bridge. Credit: Lynda Poulter via Wikimedia Commons.

In service from 1954 until 1997, HMY Britannia is the former royal yacht of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. She was the 83rd such vessel since King Charles II acceded to the British throne in 1660 and had HMY Mary built for him by the Dutch East India Company, and the second royal yacht to bear the name, the first being a racing cutter built for the Prince of Wales in 1893.

During her 43-year career, the yacht travelled more than a million nautical miles around the globe. Today, she is an award-winning visitor attraction and evening events venue permanently berthed at Ocean Terminal, Leith, in Edinburgh.

HMY Britannia was built in Scotland at the shipyard of John Brown & Co. Ltd. in Clydebank, West Dumbartonshire. It was launched by the Queen on 16 April 1953 and commissioned on 11 January 1954.

She sailed on her maiden voyage from Portsmouth to Grand Harbour, Malta, on 14 April 1954, carrying Prince Charles and Princess Anne to Malta, to Malta in order for them to meet their parents at the end of the royal couple’s Commonwealth Tour.

On 20 July 1959,  Britannia  sailed the newly opened Saint Lawrence Seaway en route to Chicago, where she docked, making the Queen the first Canadian monarch to visit the city. US President Dwight D. Eisenhower was aboard  Britannia  for part of this cruise; Presidents Ford, Reagan and Clinton were subsequently welcomed aboard the yacht.

Britannia  was designed to be converted into a hospital ship in time of war, with space for an estimated 200 patients. Although the ship was never used in this capacity, as she sailed down the Red Sea in January 1986, en route to Australia, she was asked to play the equally challenging role of rescue ship, to evacuate British nationals and others trapped in South Yemen, where civil war had broken out. Moreover, in the event of nuclear war, Britannia was to be used as a refuge and base of operations for the Queen. The plan, codenamed “Python system”, would have had the ship located on the northwest coast of Scotland in sea lochs with Her Majesty, the Duke of Edinburgh, and the Home Secretary safely on board.

The royal yacht played host to four royal honeymoons: Princess Margaret and Anthony Armstrong-Jones visited the West Indies in 1960; Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips also chose the Caribbean in 1973; Prince Charles and Princess Diana travelled around the Mediterranean in 1981 and finally the Duke and Duchess of York visited the Azores in 1986. Most recently, Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall held their pre-wedding reception on board the yacht in July 2011.

The State Drawing Room. Credit: Marianna Bozzoli.

Britannia ’s last foreign mission was to Hong Kong for the transfer of sovereignty from the United Kingdom to the People’s Republic of China on 1 July 1997.  The ship set sail for Hong Kong in January and served to escort British Governor Christopher Patten and the Prince of Wales back to the UK.

In 1997, the Conservative government committed itself to replacing the Royal Yacht if re-elected, while the Labour Party refused to disclose its plans for the vessel. After Tony Blair’s Labour won the general election in May 1997, it announced the vessel was to be retired and no replacement would be built. The previous government had argued that the cost was justified by its role in foreign policy and promoting British interests abroad.

The Queen has since chartered the MV Hebridian Princess , a private charter cruise ship, on two separate occasions for family trips around the Scottish islands.

When HMY Britannia would come into port, blowing its foghorns, the Queen herself would reportedly imitate the foghorn noise, much to the amusement of anyone in earshot. Then she and the Duke of Edinburgh would travel ashore on the royal barge, built in 1964 to replace to previous one, which had originally belonged to the royal yacht Victoria and Albert III .

Unlike most ships, Britannia was the only ships in the world where the captain was always an Admiral.  The crew were volunteers from the Royal Navy, officers were appointed for a period of two years, while enlisted crew (known as “yachtsmen”) served for one-year periods, after which they could be admitted to “The Permanent Royal Yacht Service”.  If accepted the Royal Yachtsmen were permitted to serve until they left the Royal Yacht Service or were expelled for medical or disciplinary reasons.  An attachment of Royal Marines would also be stationed on the yacht when the Royal Family was present. Service on the royal yacht attracted no extra pay, allowances or leave.

Everything was done to preserve the Royal Family’s tranquillity: most orders were not given verbally, but by hand signal; soft-soled plimsolls were worn and any work near the royal apartments had to be completed by 8.00AM.

The Queen’s Bedroom. Credit: Marianna Bozzoli.

HMY Britannia was the last ship in the Royal Navy to have hammocks in sailors’ quarters.

During her career as Royal Yacht,  Britannia  conveyed the Queen, other members of the Royal Family and various dignitaries on 696 foreign visits and 272 visits in British waters. In this time,  Britannia  steamed 1,087,623 nautical miles (2,014,278 km).

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Inside the Royal Yacht Britannia

We explore how the royal yacht britannia, the royal family’s former yacht, became one of britain’s best-loved attractions….

Words by Kirsten Henton & photos by Euan Myles

This year marks two major milestones for the iconic Royal Yacht Britannia , the Royal Family’s former yacht, aboard which they would cruise the Western Isles of Scotland each summer. Celebrating both 70 years of service and 25 years as a multi-award-winning floating museum and visitor attraction, this regal yacht is more popular than ever.

Since dropping anchor in Edinburgh’s historic port of Leith and opening to the public in 1998, a year after it was decommissioned, Britannia has captivated some six million visitors. It’s a spectacle of refined elegance crammed full of fascinating royal and naval history.

Somewhat randomly, Britannia, and the bold tartan trews worn by the guides, were fixtures in my family for over a decade. Having taken early retirement, my father, Richard Henton, who has a lifelong interest in the Royal Navy, subsequently worked as a guide aboard Britannia from 2003 to 2014.

As he puts it: “The nice thing about working on Britannia was being associated with a truly prestigious icon that was instantly recognised internationally. I also had a certain affection for the Royal Yacht since I remember her launch back in 1953.”

The decades following WWII witnessed great change globally. War-torn countries from Europe to Eastern Asia endured significant financial and social hardships, while colonised countries that had formed the backbone of European empires, many of whose citizens had fought and died in two World Wars, actively sought their independence.

Seismic events such as the Partition of India, unrest in Palestine and Malaya (now Malaysia), and the later Suez Crisis all signalled the complexities of this new order. In addition, the Commonwealth came to prominence. Plus, Britain had a new monarch. Following the death of King George VI on 6 February 1952, 25-year-old Elizabeth was proclaimed queen and a new chapter in British history began.

It was into this changing world that Britannia was launched. In fact, the shipyard received the official order to commence work on the new Royal Yacht from the Admiralty on 4 February 1952, just two days before King George VI died.

THE ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA: UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Although plans for a new Royal Yacht were temporarily shelved owing to WWII, work began on Britannia in 1952 at the renowned John Brown & Co. Shipyard in Clydebank, where liners including the Lusitania, Queen Mary, and Queen Elizabeth were also constructed. Although officially launched on 16 April 1953, it wasn’t until 11 January 1954 that Britannia was commissioned into active service with the Royal Navy.

The 412-foot-long (126-metre) yacht was one of the last fully-riveted ships to be built. It was seen to have quite the modern form with a crisp clipper bow and a sleek cruiser stern. Meanwhile, down in the engine room, two steam-powered turbines generated 12,000 horsepower and a maximum speed of 22.5 knots (around 25 mph).

Curiously, the ship’s wheel, which was taken from its 1893 namesake, Edward, Prince of Wales’s (later Edward VII) Royal Cutter Britannia, is located in the wheelhouse for security reasons. This meant that yachtsmen at the helm couldn’t actually see where they were going. Instead, they followed instructions via voice pipes from the bridge above.

The ship’s name also remained a mystery to all but a few until its christening. When Queen Elizabeth II smashed a bottle on the bow in April 1953, some 30,000 people, mainly shipbuilders and their families, turned out in the pouring rain to hear her proclaim “I name this ship Britannia” for the first time, although it was never painted onto the hull.

THE ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA: UNDERSTATED INTERIORS

Stepping aboard Britannia, you might expect some serious luxury. However, as Laura McCall, of the Royal Yacht Britannia reveals, luxury wasn’t the look the Royal Family were going for at all: “The initial designs were considered to be too opulent and, instead, more of a ‘country home’ feel was chosen by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip… it’s elegant yet reflects the post-war austerity in which the ship was built.”

This period also necessitated the ability to convert Britannia into a hospital ship, should it ever be required. Over in the state apartments, it’s a homely affair. What’s more, it remains relatively unchanged, a time capsule of chintzy chairs, surprisingly narrow single beds and considerably ordinary decor.

Of course, the grand state dining room, magnificent staircase, and teak sun lounge with its giant picture windows – said to have been our late Queen’s favourite spot – quickly remind you that it was still a floating palace fit for royalty.

THE ROYAL YAHCT BRITANNIA: LIFE AT SEA

Britannia offered an escape for the Royal Family. It was a private bubble, which Queen Elizabeth II described as “the only place I can truly relax.”

McCall says: “King Charles enjoyed summer holidays on Britannia and in later years, [it] was where His Majesty brought his own sons for family trips to the Western Isles.” It has also hosted four royal honeymoons and, McCall continues, was where “the Royal Family entertained everyone from prime ministers and presidents to the celebrities of the day, including Frank Sinatra.”

For the 220 yachtsmen, known as ‘yotties’, who served aboard Britannia, life was very different to other postings. The rules were unusual, for starters. As Acting Captain J S Dalglish, the officer in charge of commissioning Britannia, later wrote: “Everything in the yacht is done in complete silence. We used no… broadcasting device for getting orders round the vessel, but instead the telephone etc. below decks, and signs and signals above.”

THE ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA: THE SOFT ART OF DIPLOMACY

It wasn’t all high days and holidays, however. Britannia was a mobile ambassador, a vessel that ferried the next generation of royals looking to represent Britain through diplomacy, trade, even the odd humanitarian mission.

It also played a vital role in connecting Britain with the expanding Commonwealth, formed of mainly ex-British territories all the way from New Zealand to Jamaica. In her Christmas Day broadcast in 1953, Her Majesty The Queen said: “The Commonwealth bears no resemblance to the empires of the past. It is an entirely new conception, built on the highest qualities of the spirit of man: friendship, loyalty and the desire for freedom and peace.”

Britannia was a vital tool the Royal Family used to honour those promises and strengthen ties with nations previously stitched into its empire.

THE ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA: THE MUSEUM

Today, people visit Britannia from all over the globe. According to my father: “The highlight of being with visitors was their evident interest in all aspects of life on board and observing their reactions to what many considered to be the decidedly non-luxurious aspects of the Royal Family’s  accommodation and the generally cramped nature of the ship’s company.”

He adds: “Those from Commonwealth countries and the USA showed particular interest since they had often seen Britannia when she visited their own countries.”

Planning a visit? My dad’s top tip is not to rush it but to give yourself sufficient time to look around properly – at least an hour and a half. Personally, I can’t recommend a trip to the Royal Deck Tea Room enough. Go for a scone and a glass of something bubbly, stay for the views to Fife and the Antony Gormley statue gazing across the Forth.

Britannia’s arrival in Leith opened a new chapter in the yacht’s story. Now, as Britain welcomes a new monarch, she continues to tell the tale of the royals of the 20th century.

To book your tickets for The Royal Yacht Britannia, go to royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

This is an extract, read the full feature in the July/August 2023 issue of Scotland, available to buy here from 16 June. 

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SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Published six times a year, every issue of Scotland  showcases its stunning landscapes and natural  beauty, and delves deep into Scottish history. From mysterious clans and famous Scots (both past and present), to the hidden histories of the country’s greatest castles and houses, Scotland ‘s pages brim with the soul and secrets of the country. Scotland magazine captures the spirit of this wild and wonderful nation, explores its history and heritage and recommends great places to visit, so you feel at home here, wherever you are in the world.

Royal Yacht Britannia: Everything You Need To Know To Visit This Royal Residence!

Visiting the royal yacht britannia in edinburgh.

Of all of the beautiful and historic sites I visited in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Royal Yacht Britannia was hands-down the most intriguing.  Now permanently berthed in Edinburgh, this amazing ship served as a royal residence for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and the royal family for over 40 years.  Visitors get an up-close and highly personal perspective on the royals, unlike any other royal residence.  But before you head out to the ship, there are a few things you should know.

Royal Yacht Britannia:  An Unexpected Location

I visited the Royal Yacht Britannia on my very first day in the city, and as part of my solo tour of Edinburgh.  I looked at several maps and read several guide books about visiting, but there was one vital piece of information that I never came across in any of my research.  The entrance to the Royal Yacht Britannia is located inside a shopping mall.   Knowing this ahead of time would have saved me several confused minutes, walking around outside the shopping mall, feeling like an idiot.  Once I finally made my way inside the shopping center, the entrance was obvious.

Royal Yacht Britannia:  Touring and Tickets

Touring the Royal Yacht Britannia is surprisingly relaxed.  Visitors moved at their own pace, and are each given an extremely informative hand-held audio tour.   Directions through the ship are very clear, and each level is easily accessed via a tower on the dock that has both stairs and an elevator.

At the time of writing this, an individual adult t icket can be purchased for £16.50, student and senior tickets are £14.50, children’s tickets are £8.75 (age 5 to 17, under 5 are free), and a family pass (2 adults and up to 3 children) can be purchased for £46.00.

The Royal Yacht Edinburgh offers a free annual pass with your initial ticket, good for the 12 months following your first visit.  Be sure to ask about it when you purchase your ticket ( you can read more information about it here .)

Royal Yacht Britannia:  Highlights of the Tour

Every moment aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia was like stepping back in time and getting a glimpse into what royal life is like.  The ship was commissioned in 1952 and officially launched in 1953, and the decor is still exactly as it was.  Visitors can tour all five decks of the ship, and are able to see the State Apartments, including the personal quarters of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip.   The State Drawing Room and the State Dining Room were particularly fascinating.

One of the most interesting parts of this tour was all the personal family photos and other objects placed throughout the ship.  Having toured other royal residences where spaces feel extremely formal and historic, the Royal Yacht Britannia seemed much more intimate and quaint than you would expect.  For example, the Sun Lounge, said to be the Queen’s favorite space aboard the ship, was just a simple space where the family could relax and enjoy time together.  A stack of old board games is visible in a cabinet, and you can just picture the Queen and her children enjoying time together, like any other family.

In addition to all the spaces used by the Royal Family, visitors can tour the decks reserved for the crew and staff.  The spaces are small, but well appointed, and visitors get a real feel for how people aboard the ship lived their daily lives.  It quickly becomes obvious why this particular royal residence is said to have been Queen Elizabeth’s favorites.

Royal Yacht Britannia:  The Royal Deck Tea Room

A visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia is not complete without stopping for meal or a relaxing cup of tea in the Royal Deck Tea Room.   I stopped by mid-afternoon after finishing my tour for a scone and a cup of tea, and enjoyed the gorgeous view of the harbor.  The service was excellent and my scone was delicious.

Access to the Royal Deck Tea Room is only available if you have purchased a ticket to tour the Royal Yacht Britannia, and they are unable to accommodate reservations.

The Royal Yacht Britannia:  A Fantastic Gift Shop

After finishing your tour of the ship and having a bite in the tea room, do not miss the gift shop at the end of the tour.   Since I visited the Royal Yacht Britannia on the very first day of my trip, I didn’t take full advantage of this fantastic location.  Not only does it feature a wide array of items themed around the ship, but it also has many other wonderful items from all over Scotland.  Had I known how boring and similar all the items I would find on the Royal Mile would be, I would have spent more of my souvenir money here!  It’s definitely worth taking the time to look around and find something you’ll love.  (I spent quite a long time trying to find great, unique souvenirs along the Royal Mile, so to save yourself some time,  be sure to check out my post on Where to Buy The Best Souvenirs in Edinburgh by clicking here !)

The Royal Yacht Britannia is not to be missed by any visitor to Edinburgh!  I highly recommend taking advantage of as much time as you can spare aboard the ship.  I will definitely be bringing my family with my next time I visit Scotland to tour this amazing yacht.

Looking for other things to do while you visit Edinburgh?  Check out my guide to the perfect day in Edinburgh, Scotland !

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HMS Britannia: 10 facts about Queen Elizabeth's former royal yacht

From humanitarian missions to hosting royal honeymoons, the HMS Britannia has a fascinating history serving the British Royal Family for over four decades. When she was decommissioned in 1997, Queen Elizabeth II shed a tear in a rare display of emotion. The occasion marked the end of long succession for royal yachts dating back to the reign of Charles II. As the country prepares to celebrate the Queen’s diamond jubilee, we remember her beloved Britannia .

1. Britannia was launched in 1953

Britannia was commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II following the death of her father and was launched from John Brown & Co. Ltd - the shipyard that built the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary cruise liners - in 1953. However, there was to be no traditional Champagne-smashing against her bow. In a post-war Britain, Champagne was considered too extravagant so instead, a bottle of Empire wine was selected to do the honours at her official launch ceremony.

2. There are three masts on board

Unlike her predecessors, Britannia possessed a more modern profile with a clipper bow and cruiser stern. The ship was designed with three masts: a 41-metre foremast, a  42-metre mainmast, and 36 metre mizzenmast. The last six metres of the main mast were placed on a hinge so she could pass under bridges.

3. Britannia logged over one million nautical miles

Between family vacations and official tours, Britannia logged over one million nautical miles, which roughly equates to one trip around the world for each of her 44 years in service.

4. The wheel was inherited

The ship’s wheel was taken from King Edward VII’s racing yacht, a 37-metre gaff-rigged cutter also named Britannia . She was a near sistership to Valkyrie II which challenged for the 1893 America's Cup, and won over 230 races in her lifetime. At the end of her life she was stripped of her spars and fittings - the wheel was saved and fitted on Britannia

5. The engine room was hyper-clean

The engine room was hyper-clean  Rumour has it that the engine room on Britannia was kept in such pristine condition that any visitors were made to wipe their feet on a door mat before entering.

6. Royal honeymoons were hosted on board

A number of royal couples chose to spend their honeymoons on Britannia given its privacy and security. Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones started the trend with a six-week sail between Mustique, Trinidad and Antigua, followed by Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips, and Princess Diana and Prince Charles. The royal apartments were located on the shelter deck with access to a large veranda.

7. There were more than 200 crew on board

During royal tours, Britannia was manned by 220 yachtsmen, 21 officers and three season officers and a Royal Marine band of 26 on royal tours. Up until the 1970s, the crew had a daily ration of rum and she was the last Royal Navy vessel to have the crew sleep in hammocks.

8. Ready for war

Britannia was designed to be converted into a hospital ship in times of war. Although she was never used in this capacity, she did assist in the evacuation of refugees during the South Yemen civil war. The drawing room was used as a temporary dormitory for the evacuees.

9. The golden rivet

It was common for officers to send junior crew off on a fool’s errand to search for a single "golden rivet". It became a right of passage and engrained in maritime folklore. During a state visit, so the story goes, the Queen had caught wind of this elusive rivet and was keen to see it for herself, so the crew found some gold leaf and hastily created a golden rivet to present to Her Majesty.

10. Decomission

HMS Britannia was officially retired from royal service in 1997. Britannia  is now permanently berthed in Edinburgh and has been converted into a museum. To this day, all the clocks on board remained stopped on 3.01pm which is the exact time the Queen last disembarked the vessel.

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Royal Yacht Britannia – tickets, prices, discounts, afternoon tea, what to see

Royal Yacht Britannia used to be Queen Elizabeth’s Palace on Water and is now Scotland’s most popular tourist attraction. 

Known by many names such as Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia, Queen Elizabeth’s Yacht ,  HMY Britannia, etc., this Yacht was in the Queen’s service for 44 years and sailed more than a million miles worldwide. 

It is a perfect opportunity to see how the British Queen lived when traveling with other Kings and Queens, World leaders, and celebrities. 

This article shares everything you must know before booking your tickets for the Royal Yacht Britannia tour.

Top Royal Yacht Britannia Tickets

# Royal Yacht Britannia tickets # Royal Edinburgh ticket

Table of contents

What to expect at yacht britannia.

Here is a quick video on what visitors can expect inside Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia.

Your Royal Britannia tour starts from the Visitor Centre, on the second floor of Ocean Terminal, where you get the historical background about the Royal Family and Yachtsmen.

You then pick up the audio guide, which is part of the entry ticket, and board Queen Elizabeth’s Yacht and explore five fascinating decks.

Highlights on the Yacht’s Royal side are the Sun Lounge, the State Dining Room, and The Queen’s Bedroom.

On the ship’s operational side, you get to see the Crew’s Quarters, the Engine Room, the laundry, etc.

More than 95% of the exhibits you will see during your tour are original and are taken on loan from The Royal Collection.

If you prefer, you can also visit the Royal Deck Tea Room.

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Royal Yacht Britannia tickets

This entry ticket gets you complete access to the Royal ship that’s now berthed in Edinburgh’s historic Port of Leith.

Visitors can explore all five decks at a leisurely pace even as they take in the public and private lives of the British Royal Family.

This ticket also includes the complimentary audio guide. 

Royal Yacht Britannia prices

Adult ticket (18+ years): 18.50 pounds Child ticket (5 to 17 years): 9.25 Pounds  Family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children): 50 Pounds Infant ticket (under 5 years): Free entry

Royal Edinburgh ticket

This combo is known as the 48-hour Royal Edinburgh Ticket and is a real money saver. 

If you are visiting Edinburgh for the first time, we highly recommend this Royal attractions combo. 

This ticket gets you to access three of the best attractions in the city:

• Royal Yacht Britannia
• Edinburgh Castle
• Palace of Holyroodhouse

And to top it all, you also get unlimited travel for 48 hours on three of Edinburgh’s hop-on-hop-off bus tours. 

Where is the Royal Yacht Britannia

Address:  Ocean Terminal, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6JJ, United Kingdom. Get Directions

The Royal Yacht Britannia is berthed in Leith, Edinburgh, just 2 miles from the City Centre.

Britannia’s Visitor Centre is on the second floor of Ocean Terminal, just 15 minutes’ drive from Edinburgh City Centre.

Ocean Terminal is soon going to be  re-branded  as Porta. 

There are many ways to get to the Royal Yacht. 

If you are coming by train, you must get down at  Edinburgh Waverley .

From outside the station, you can take a taxi to cover the 3.7 kms (2.3 miles) to Ocean Terminal. 

From the Waverly station, you can also take bus No. 22 and 34.

You must board the buses at  Princess Street (Stop PN) , and after 24 minutes and 27 stops, get down at  Ocean Terminal (Stop OF) .

There is a bus from the Station, every 15 minutes.

Lothian Bus services  run three buses – Bus No. 11, 22, and 35 – from Edinburgh City Centre to Ocean Terminal. 

You can purchase tickets on the bus by presenting the correct change or from the  Lothian Buses app .

A single journey on a Lothian Bus costs 1.70 Pounds. 

If you use Satnav, use the postcode EH6 6JJ. 

Else, open Google Maps to get  directions to Ocean Terminal .

If you prefer a taxi, we recommend  Uber ,  Central Taxis , or  City Cabs .

Car Parking

Royal Yacht Britannia offers free parking at Ocean Terminal.

Blue Car Park on Level E is closest to the tourist attraction’s Visitor Centre. 

This part of the Park also has spaces for Blue Badge holders. 

Royal Yacht Britannia entrance

If you reach by foot, taxi, or bus, access to Royal Britannia is from the Ocean Terminal Shopping Center’s main entrance on the ground floor. 

You must take a lift to the 2nd floor of Ocean Terminal and walk towards the building’s East end.

You will first spot Debenhams and then HMY Britannia’s Visitor Center entrance.  Even though you can book tickets at the venue (the ticket desk is to the left of the visitor center entrance), it is better to  buy them online , much in advance, to avoid last-minute disappointment. 

Royal Yacht Britannia opening times

During the peak months of April to October, Royal Yacht Britannia opens at 9.30 am, and the last entry is at 4.30 pm. 

The rest of the year, the Royal Yacht opens at 10 am, and the last entry is allowed till 3.30 pm. 

The last admission on 24 December is at 2.30 pm, and on 31 December it is at 3 pm. 

Royal Yacht Britannia is closed on 25 December and 1 January.

Royal Yacht Britannia tour

The Royal Yacht Britannia   tours are a perfect way to feel like a celebrity for a few hours. 

In this section, we share a few things you must know before you book your tour of the Royal ship. 

Are the Britannia tours timed?

No, tours of HMY Britannia don’t start at a stipulated time. 

When you book your tickets, you only select the ‘date.’ 

On the day of your visit, reach the Royal ship between their opening hours to start exploring.

Are the Royal Britannia tours guided?

Her Majesty’s Yacht doesn’t offer guided tours. 

However, every ticket comes with an audio guide to walk around and tour the ship yourself.

Kids get their own version of the audio guide. 

How long does a tour of Britannia Yacht take?

You need at least two hours to explore Royal Yacht Britannia to satisfaction. 

However, if you plan to visit the Royal Deck Tea Room, you must factor in another 30 to 60 minutes. 

Visits during July and August tend to take longer because of the crowd. 

Royal Britannia discounts

Kids up to four years get the maximum discounts at Britannia, Edinburgh – they get in for free. 

On the adult ticket price of 17 Pounds, children aged 5 to 17 years get almost 50% discount and pay only 8.75 Pounds.

Seniors who are 60+ and students with valid educational ID cards get a 2 Pound reduction on the full ticket.

People in the Armed Forces (with valid ID) can also claim the reduced price of 8.75 Pounds. 

However, this Armed Forces discount is available only at the Britannia ticket office.

Royal Yacht Britannia audio guide

Every Britannia Yacht entry ticket comes with a complimentary audio guide.

While receiving the audio guides at the Handset Desk, you can ask for straps to wear the audio guides around the neck. Headphones are also available.

Kids can opt for the children’s version of the audio guide.

The audio tour is available in 30 languages; English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Dutch, Finnish, Greek, Russian, Czech, Polish, Hungarian, Korean, Japanese, Urdu, Mandarin, Hindi, Arabic, Thai, Turkish, Cantonese, Punjabi, Portuguese-Brazilian, Welsh, Romanian and Gaelic. 

Besides the audio guide, visitor guides are also available through the tour route to help if you have questions.

Royal Yacht Britannia afternoon tea

The Royal Deck Tea Room is on board Britannia and tables are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

It is a perfect restaurant to enjoy freshly prepared food and stunning views of the harbor. 

The menu includes specialty coffees, cocktails, tasty soups, sandwiches, cakes, scones, etc.  Download Menu

The Royal Deck Tea Room has 35 tables and can seat 133 people.

Royal Deck tea room timings

During the peak months of April to October, the Royal Deck Team Room opens at 11 am, and the last admission is at 3.30 pm. 

January to March: Opens at 11 am, last admission at 3.30 pm

November to December: Opens at 10.30 pm, last admission at 3.45 pm

Royal Yacht Britannia interiors

Many tourists wonder what’s inside the Royal Yacht before they book their tickets. 

Some out of curiosity and some to know if a visit to Royal Yacht Britannia is worth it. 

We list below some of the highlights of this Palace on water. 

State Apartments

The State Apartments are the collection of rooms where the Royals lived or entertained their guests. 

1. The State Drawing Room

The Royal family relaxed in the State Drawing Room whenever they traveled together. 

It also acted as a reception room for up to 250 guests. 

2. The Verandah Deck

The Verandah Deck was a private space for the Royals, where they could sunbathe or enjoy quoits or deck hockey. 

This area of the ship also had a collapsible swimming pool for the Royal Family to splash around if they wanted.

3. The Sun Lounge

The Sun Lounge was one of the Queen’s favorite rooms onboard HMY Brittania. 

The beautiful teak-lined room was a designated family room and offered a lot of privacy from the rest of the ship.

4. The State Dining Room

This massive dining room onboard Britannia has played host to the world’s most influential people, such as Nelson Mandela, Sir Winston Churchill, Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher, etc. 

With its white paneled walls adorned with gifts received during State visits, this room represents ultimate luxury. 

The Engine Room

The Engine Room is a testament to British marine engineering skills because, until the ship got decommissioned in 1997, everything was working fine. 

This room is full of gleaming brass, chrome, and white enamel with the ‘heavy stuff’ under the hood pumping 12,000 horsepower, which would help Britannia and her four-bladed propellers to a maximum of 22.5 knots.  

Eight men operated the Engine Room, Boiler Room, and associated machinery rooms.

The Laundry

The 240 Officers and Yachtsmen on board Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia sometimes had to change their uniforms up to six times a day. 

This is why it was the only ship in the Royal Navy to have a laundry service permanently on board. 

The laundry machines, dryers, and steam presses on the ship worked non-stop, and sometimes the temperature even went up to 48 degrees Celcius (118 degrees Fahrenheit)

Admiral’s Cabin

The Admiral was responsible for Royal Yacht Britannia’s safe functioning and commanded the 19 officers and 220 Yachtsmen who operated the ship.

He worked, entertained, and often ate (he couldn’t join the other officers in their mess unless invited) in the Admiral’s Cabin. Image: Royalyachtbritannia.co.uk  

The Bridge was HMY Britannia’s center of command and control on all her journeys. 

From here, the officers reporting into the Admiral navigated, passed orders, recorded the logbooks, etc.

Back then, all Royal Navy ships had a Navy, Army, and Air Force Institute shop, known as the NAAFI. 

The crew members and the officers would shop for their daily needs, such as toothpaste, shaving creams, magazines, etc. in this shop. 

Sources # Royalyachtbritannia.co.uk # Architecturaldigest.com # Wikipedia.org # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Jamshed V Rajan

He is a two-faced traveler, who enjoys both the hustle-bustle of an urban holiday and the serenity of a break from the rest of the World. During some of his vacations, he is a resort hopper, and on others, he barely spends time in his hotel. He loves to try mouth-watering local cuisines, especially non-vegetarian dishes. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Las Vegas, Dublin, Prague, Vienna

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Is the Royal Yacht Britannia worth Visiting?

Is the Royal Yacht Britannia worth Visiting? – The Royal Yacht Britannia recently won the best historic attraction award from Which so that’s a very positive start. There are five decks of ship to explore, including the Queen’s bedroom, the honeymoon suite, a fleet of v cool vehicles plus a corgi treasure trail for kids. This attraction works in all weather, but makes an excellent Edinburgh rainy day activity, so here’s the lowdown.

After decommissioning in 1997, the esteemed Royal Yacht could have docked anywhere. Competition was fierce to host it, but the pitch that won brought the vessel to Leith . Visitors get a real ‘Upstairs, Downstairs’ experience comparing how the Royals lived, in contrast with the ‘work hard play hard crew’.

You can get to Leith via bus, tram, taxi or the hop on/hop off bus . The tour bus is cancellable 24 hours beforehand so book now and decide later. Access to the ship is through the Britannia reception area within the Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre (which is also home to shops and a soft play centre). Pick up your audio guide at the Britannia reception, which is v simple to operate. Then it’s time to step aboard.

The tour starts at the bridge with all the steering, gadgets and power, and great views over the bow where the Royals would position themselves to wave at the crowds. Then you visit the Verandah deck with its thick teak floors that had to be cleaned daily by 8am without disturbing the Royals. This was an area for games, sunbathing, events, whatever was required. My favourite room came next, the Sun Lounge (pics above). Turns out it was the Queen’s favourite room too. It’s airy and relaxed and the sea views must have been fantastic.

For a full guide to Edinburgh activities click here. 

Within the State rooms things get intimate. It’s fascinating to see the relatively simple bedrooms of the Queen and Prince Philip, plus the honeymoon suite installed at Prince Charles’ request. I was drawn to the relaxed country feel of the chintz  State Drawing Room (above). It’s nowhere near as grand as it sounds, and appears to be a comfortable family room. On the other hand, the Dining Room  feels appropriately formal and has hosted SO many international leaders the mind reels.

A guide to free things to do in Edinburgh.

On the lower decks discover the quirky lives of the crew. The segregation between ranks is clear, with different bars and restaurants reserved for different sailors. Tales of a toy wallaby in a ceiling fan, plus a wooden monkey make it clear the crew got up to a fair amount of mischief.

The practical side of the ship is also clear – this prestigious ships was carrying the Queen after all and required everything she may require to look amazing, keep healthy and keep safe. There’s a huge floating laundry room, a very well-equipped sick bay for any emergency, plus a fleet of vehicles including a grand Rolls Royce, a Landrover and a v James Bond style landing vessel.

Finally, take a coffee break or have lunch at The Royal Deck Tea Room. It’s only open to those who  visit Britannia so should never get too busy.

Families – Is the Royal Yacht Britannia worth Visiting?

When your kids have completed the Corgi Trail and found all the corgis hidden around the ship, they can claim a badge in the gift shop. The gift shop is extensive, and also sells soft toy corgis if you wish to take one home.

Find the best afternoon teas in Edinburgh here.

Where to Stay

View our favourite apartments in Edinburgh here.

Browse accommodation in Leith/Edinburgh here . Or book into the yacht’s partner ship, Fingal . Fingal is a former Lighthouse Board vessel that underwent a £5 million conversion to become a luxury floating hotel. It’s really something! Royalty has stayed here when conducting business aboard Britannia. And any guest aboard Fingal receives complimentary tickets to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Fingal’s restaurant boasts two AA rosettes, and welcomes non-residents too. I enjoyed my starter of Orkney scallops with ruby grapefruit and taramasalata. Then I opted for a vegetarian main, and it really delivered – harisa roast celeriac with hispi cabbage and potato fondant.

Afternoon tea is also available, served Wednesday – Sunday from 12.30pm – 3.30pm. It starts with an amuse bouche of sweet potato velouté. The savoury highlight for me was the Wye Valley asparagus and chorizo tart. And the sweet treats included a gorgeous Amaretto and raspberry white chocolate bar and a lemon and poppyseed macaron.

Have a glorious time in Edinburgh.

Free Scotland Itinerary here

Book more activities in Edinburgh here.

Free East Coast of Scotland Itinerary here .

Browse all our Edinburgh material here.

Book accommodation at Booking.com.

If you found this guide helped you plan a break then please consider subscribing  here  or  buy us a cuppa  to support our work. Please join the conversation on  Facebook,  or check out the bonny photos on  Instagram . For any queries or opportunities please email [email protected] . Content and images copyright of Scots2Travel. Contains affiliate links. Check out our  Privacy Policy here . I visited Fingal on a press trip, receiving complimentary DBB and stay with Afternoon Tea. 

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The Royal Yacht Britannia: Worth a Visit?

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Is the Royal Yacht Britannia worth a visit? Step aboard! The Late Queen’s former floating palace and experience this iconic 5 star attraction for yourself. Rated Scotland’s Best Attraction for 12 years running and in TripAdvisor’s UK Top 10 for the last 5 years, Britannia is one of the most famous ships in the world. Sailing a million miles on a thousand official visits, during 40 years in service, the Royal Yacht played host to glittering state banquets and official receptions, but was also home to the Royal Family and crew of 220 Royal Yachtsmen. 

But is she worth a visit? 

History buffs will be interested to know that Britannia was built in 1953, just in time for The Queen’s coronation. She cost £6.2 million to build (the equivalent of £120 million today) and was decommissioned in 1997 after 44 years of active service. 

During her time as a royal vessel, she played host to numerous dignitaries including Sir Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Greta Garbo, Marilyn Monroe and The Beatles. 

The Queen and Prince Philip spent every Christmas on board Britannia along with their children and grandchildren – often sailing to warmer climes such as Gibraltar for the Christmas period. 

In 1982, The Prince & Princess of Wales brought their newborn baby Prince William home from hospital to meet his grandparents on board Britannia. 

Nowadays, she operates as a five-star visitor attraction and restaurant docked permanently in Edinburgh ‘s historic Leith harbour. 

 Visitors can explore all five decks as well as enjoy afternoon tea or lunch served in one of Britannia’s former State rooms whilst enjoying magnificent views across Edinburgh’s skyline and Firth of Forth.   

So is Britannia worth a visit? 

We think so! She may not be sailing the seas anymore but she still has plenty of stories to tell – not to mention the best views in Edinburgh !

What Is Edinburgh Known For?

Ready to start planning that trip to Scotland? Start here!

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Royal Yacht Britannia

The Queen and the Royal Family’s vessel for over 44 years , the Royal Yacht Britannia has become one of the most famous yachts in the world.

A long life

Britannia was launched in Scotland in 1953 and, since then, has served the Royal Family on 968 official voyages , travelling over one million miles, stopping at 600 ports and in over 135 countries .

The Queen felt at home when she travelled on the vessel and the photos of her children and grandchildren still hang on the walls of the Britannia , as well as various personal items and gifts that were given to the family on their travels around the world.

Throughout its 44 years of service, Britannia has been a residence for official receptions, banquets, and State visits . For these events, 45 members of the royal household would climb on board with 5 tons of luggage.

In 1997, after over 40 years of service, the vessel was decommissioned and is now berthed at Leith Port where curious visitors can explore the majestic Britannia.

The visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia begins in the Visitor Centre found on the second floor of the Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre . In this centre, you’ll be able to discover the vessel’s past through numerous photographs.

Before visiting the Royal Yacht, you'll be given an English audio guide with all the details of the vessel.

Beginning with a visit to Britannia’s Bridge , visitors will also explore the State Apartments , the Crew’s Quarters, and finish at the Engine Room .

Although the Queen’s chambers are very plainly decorated, other parts of the vessel are extremely lavish, like the Rolls Royce that sits permanently in the vessel’s garage.   

A ship like no other

Even if you're not passionate about boats, wandering through the Royal Yacht Britannia’s rooms will satisfy any inquiries about the Queen and the Royal Family you might have . Information such as who slept in what room, how many people worked on board, what visitors were invited to visit the Britannia and the countries it has visited, make for an entertaining tour.

Ocean Terminal.

From January to March: Open daily: 10 am – 5 pm From April to October: Open daily: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm November and December: Open daily: 10 am – 5 pm

Adults: £ 18 ( US$ 23.50) Students: £ 16 ( US$ 20.90) Children (aged 5 – 17): £ 9 ( US$ 11.80) Children under 5: free entry

Buses: Ocean Terminal , 11, 22 or 35.

Nearby places

Royal Botanic Garden (2.7 km) Calton Hill (3 km) Scottish National Portrait Gallery (3.1 km) Palace of Holyroodhouse (3.2 km) Scottish Parliament (3.3 km)

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Is Royal Yacht Britannia Worth Visiting? (3 Reasons Why You Should)

Are you looking for a unique and fascinating way to explore the history and culture of Britain? Then you owe it to yourself to visit Royal Yacht Britannia and experience it for yourself.

Spend a day admiring the opulent interiors, exploring the museum of gifts received by royalty, and touring the impressive engine room.

Not only that, but you’ll also enjoy the beautiful setting and gain insight into the fascinating history and impressive technology of the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Here are three reasons why you should visit this incredible vessel.

Table of Contents

Short Answer

Yes, Royal Yacht Britannia is definitely worth visiting.

It offers a unique insight into the Royal Family’s lives, with a tour of the ship’s cabins and many interactive exhibits.

There is also a fantastic restaurant on board, serving a delicious range of traditional British and Scottish cuisine.

It is a great day out for the whole family and an opportunity to learn about the history of Britain’s Royal Yacht.

History of the Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Yacht Britannia has a long and storied history that dates back more than sixty years.

Commissioned in 1953, the Britannia was the last British monarch’s personal yacht, and served as a floating palace for the British royal family for over 43 years.

During that time, the yacht was not only used for official state visits, but also for more private family occasions.

In fact, the Britannia was the setting for some of the most significant moments in the history of the British Monarchy, including the honeymoon of the Prince and Princess of Wales in 1981.

The Britannia was also the setting for the first overseas state visit of Queen Elizabeth II in 1954, and again for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee tour of the Commonwealth in 1977.

In total, the Britannia has travelled over one million miles, visiting over 600 ports in 135 countries.

The yacht was decommissioned in 1997 and is now permanently moored in the historic port of Leith, Scotland, where visitors can explore its opulent interiors and learn about the many gifts the royal family received while travelling.

Explore the Opulent Interiors

Exploring the opulent interiors of the Royal Yacht Britannia is an experience like no other.

From the grand staircase to the wood-paneled walls, the royal yacht is a stunning display of British grandeur.

Take a guided tour to learn more about the yacht’s history, from its construction in 1953 to the royal family’s many trips around the world.

During the tour, visitors can admire the sumptuous furniture, carpets, and artwork in the state rooms, which were used by the royal family for formal receptions and private dinners.

The living quarters of the Queen and other members of the royal family are also open to the public, providing a glimpse into their daily lives aboard the yacht.

Visitors can also explore the yacht’s impressive engineering systems in the engine room, including its four powerful diesel engines and its two propellers.

With its elegant interiors, fascinating history, and impressive technology, the Royal Yacht Britannia is a must-see attraction in Scotland.

Museum of Gifts Received by Royals

The Royal Yacht Britannia is home to an impressive museum that showcases the many gifts the royals received while travelling.

These gifts come from all corners of the world, such as from the UK, the US, Japan, India, and many more.

The museum features a wide range of items, including artwork, jewelry, and even exotic animals.

Visitors can take a closer look at these gifts and learn more about the royal familys travels and their connections with other countries.

It is a great way to gain a better understanding of the royal familys history and the importance of their international relationships.

Not only does the museum provide insight into the past, but it also serves as a reminder of the strong ties the royals have with other nations.

Visitors will leave the museum feeling inspired by the relationships the royals have forged and the impact they have had on the world.

Tour the Engine Room

The Royal Yacht Britannia is home to an impressive array of engineering systems, and visitors can take a tour of the engine room to learn more about them.

The engine room is where the yacht’s power is generated and stored, and visitors can explore the complex workings of the yacht’s engines and other systems.

From the massive diesel engines to the intricate electrical systems, visitors can get an up-close look at the technology that powered the Britannia.

Additionally, visitors can learn about the yacht’s navigational systems, such as its autopilot, radio, and radar.

The tour gives visitors an opportunity to marvel at the engineering prowess of the Britannia, and to gain an appreciation for the yacht’s impressive capabilities.

Beautiful Setting

When it comes to visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia, the first thing that strikes you is the beautiful setting.

Located in the historic port of Leith, the Britannia is surrounded by the picturesque views of the Firth of Forth.

Visitors can take in the stunning views of the River Forth, the islands of Fife, and the distant hills of Edinburgh.

The yacht itself is an impressive sight, with its gleaming white hull and polished decks, and visitors can get up close and personal with the royal familys former floating palace.

For those who appreciate the beauty of nature, the Britannia is a perfect spot to take in the sights and soak up the atmosphere of the Scottish coastline.

Fascinating History

Visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia is a chance to step back in time and explore the fascinating history of the British Royal Family.

The yacht was commissioned in 1953 and was the 83rd royal vessel to bear the name Britannia.

It served as the personal retreat and transport of the royal family for over 43 years, including visits to over 600 ports in 135 countries.

The yacht was graced by many dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, as well as numerous foreign leaders.

The Britannia also served as the residence of the royal family during their annual summer holiday cruise.

During this time, the royal family would entertain guests and conduct state visits, making the yacht a very important part of British history.

The yacht is now a museum and visitors can explore the opulent interiors and learn about the royal family’s use of the yacht.

The museum features a variety of artifacts, including gifts received by the royal family during their travels, as well as historical documents and photographs.

In addition, visitors can take a tour of the engine room and learn about the yacht’s engineering systems.

Visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia is an opportunity to explore the rich history of the British Royal Family and to gain a unique insight into the private life of the royal family.

With its beautiful setting, fascinating history, and impressive technology, the Royal Yacht Britannia is definitely worth a visit.

Impressive Technology

When it comes to impressive technology, the Royal Yacht Britannia is certainly worth a visit.

The yacht was built in the early 1950s and features the latest in engineering and marine technologies, with features such as a double-hulled steel structure, a separate engine room, and a high-tech bridge.

The yacht also had a state-of-the-art communications system, which allowed the royals to stay in touch with their home base no matter where they were travelling.

Visitors to the Royal Yacht Britannia can take a tour of the engine room and learn about the yachts engineering systems, from its propulsion system to its air conditioning .

In addition, visitors can also explore the impressive communications room, which was once used by the Royal Family to stay connected with their home base.

With its impressive engineering and technology, the Royal Yacht Britannia is sure to impress.

Final Thoughts

The Royal Yacht Britannia is a sight to behold.

From its beautiful setting to its fascinating history, this floating palace is truly a unique experience.

Visitors can explore the opulent interiors, admire the many gifts the royals received while travelling, and take a tour of the engine room to learn about its impressive engineering systems.

If you are ever in Scotland, make sure to check out the Royal Yacht Britannia and be sure to take lots of pictures.

The experience will be something you’ll never forget.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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Is Royal Yacht Britannia Worth Visiting

Ever imagine the Queen vacationing on a giant boat? That was Britannia, her home away from home for over 40 years. Wonder what it is like inside? Me too! So, I checked out the Britannia for myself. Now, is it worth a visit? Let's find out! I will discuss what I saw.

What to Expect at the Royal Yacht Britannia?

Right, so you have bought your ticket (that’s a bit pricey, but we will get to that later). Now, what is the Britannia actually like? Well, it is like stepping into a time capsule of this explorer yacht . You will get a headset for a guided audio tour, and off you go, exploring the ship at your own pace.

First up, the State Apartments. Fancy! Think plush carpets, shiny chandeliers, and furniture fit for a queen. You can peek into her bedroom, the drawing room where she entertained guests, and even the dining room where world leaders dined. Imagine the stories those walls could tell. If you have ever dreamed of a luxury yacht charter, this is the closest most of us will get.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Royal Yacht Britannia

Who Should Visit?

Let’s be real; the Britannia is not for everyone. But if you fit into one of these groups, you will probably have a blast:

History Enthusiasts

If you love learning about the past, you will be in heaven. The Britannia is like a floating museum packed with artifacts and stories. You will learn about royal life maritime history and even get a glimpse into how a massive ship like this operates.

Royal Family Fans

If you follow the royals (or just love a good fairytale), this is a must-visit. It is like stepping into their world and seeing where they lived, worked, and entertained.

Unique Attraction Seekers

Are you looking for something different from Edinburgh’s castles and museums? The Britannia is definitely one-of-a-kind. It is not every day you get to explore a royal yacht.

Who Might Want to Skip?

As much as I enjoyed my visit, I will be honest: the Britannia is not a perfect fit for everyone. Here is who might want to reconsider:

Budget Travelers

Let’s face it: the tickets are a bit pricey, especially for families. If you are on a tight budget, there are plenty of other fantastic (and free) things to see and do in Edinburgh. You could explore the majestic Edinburgh Castle , wander the charming streets of the Old Town, or walk the beautiful Princes Street Gardens.

Not-So-Royal Fans

If dates, names, and historical figures are not really your cup of tea, you might find yourself glazing over during the tour. The Britannia is packed with royal memorabilia and stories about the lives of the Queen, her family, and their guests. While the ship is impressive, it is geared towards those interested in royal history.

Accessibility Concerns

Like many older vessels, the ship has narrow corridors and multiple staircases, which are challenging for visitors with mobility issues. While there is a lift for some areas, it does not provide access to the entire ship. If you have concerns about navigating stairs or tight spaces, skip this attraction.

Tips for Visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia

Alright, you have decided to set sail with the Royal Yacht Britannia! Now, let’s make sure your visit goes smoothly:

Book Online

Seriously, do this. Especially during peak season, the ticket line can snake around the building. I learned this the hard way! Go to the Britannia website , book in advance, and walk right in.

Take Your Time

Don’t rush through this floating palace! There is much to see, and the audio guide has fascinating tidbits. Allow at least two hours, or even longer, if you plan to linger over tea in the Royal Deck Tea Room. Trust me, it is worth it.

Explore Beyond the Boat

While the Britannia is the star attraction, the surrounding Leith area is pretty cool too. After your tour, why not wander around the historic port, grab a bite to eat, or check out the fashionable shops? It is a great way to soak up the local atmosphere.

Final Thoughts – Should You Go Aboard?

So, is the Royal Yacht Britannia worth the hype? It is a yes for history fans and royal enthusiasts, offering a unique peek into royal life and a chance to explore a floating palace. However, budget travelers might find the price tag steep, and those not interested in history might not find it as appealing. Edinburgh has plenty of other great options, from underground vaults to botanical gardens. So, did you visit the Britannia?

Qazi Raza Ul Haq

My name is Raza and I am an experienced SEO content writer who loves to explore and seek adventure. I have over 8 years of experience in blogging and SEO content writing. I would be delighted to take you on a thrilling journey to discover the world of yacht rentals in Dubai, providing you with valuable insights and helpful tips.

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Mike Lynch, Tech Mogul Acquitted of Fraud, Dies at 59

The British entrepreneur was found not guilty of fraud charges in the sale of his company to Hewlett-Packard. He was celebrating his acquittal when his yacht sank off the coast of Sicily.

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By Michael J. de la Merced

Michael de la Merced reported on Mike Lynch’s career and legal battles over the course of 13 years across two continents.

Mike Lynch , a British software mogul who was once celebrated as a top technology leader — only to spend more than a decade defending himself against accusations that he orchestrated one of the biggest frauds in Silicon Valley history — died on Monday after his yacht sank off the coast of Sicily . He was 59.

An official in the Italian city of Palermo confirmed on Thursday that Mr. Lynch’s body had been recovered by divers.

Twelve guests and 10 crew members were onboard the yacht, the Bayesian, when it went down during a violent storm. Mr. Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, was rescued, along with nine crew members and six passengers. Six bodies have been recovered, and one person is still missing: Mr. Lynch’s daughter Hannah Lynch.

Mr. Lynch’s death came two months after he was acquitted in federal court in San Francisco of criminal fraud charges, tied to the $11 billion sale of his company, Autonomy, to Hewlett-Packard in 2011. The takeover, widely regarded among investors as one of the worst deals in history , led HP to accuse Mr. Lynch of deception.

Prosecutors in the United States charged Mr. Lynch with more than a dozen counts of fraud and conspiracy related to the deal, with a potential sentence running to about two decades in prison.

On the day in 2023 that a British judge found him liable for civil fraud in the matter, the British government — despite numerous appeals by Mr. Lynch — approved his extradition to the United States. He was confined to a townhouse in San Francisco under 24-hour surveillance, on his own dime. During his house arrest, his mother, Dolores, and his brother, Richard, died.

The accusations sullied the reputation of Mr. Lynch, who was known at one point as Britain’s Bill Gates.

Michael Richard Lynch was born on June 16, 1965, to Michael and Dolores Lynch, working-class immigrants from Ireland, and grew up outside London. He attended private school on a scholarship and graduated from Cambridge before founding Autonomy in 1996. The company helped clients analyze unstructured information to unearth hidden insights about their businesses.

By 2011, Autonomy had become one of Britain’s most prominent technology companies, with its home base sometimes called “Silicon Fen” — a name derived from its location at the southern tip of the Fenland, a marshy area in eastern England.

Mr. Lynch became a celebrity in British tech circles. He was a member of the Royal Society, one of the country’s top scientific associations; an adviser to David Cameron, the prime minister at the time; and a member of the BBC’s board.

Autonomy drew the attention of HP, which had sought to transform its fortunes by buying a high-powered software company, and which eventually paid 60 percent over the British company’s market value. But investors and analysts opposed the deal, and HP wrote down the value of the transaction by $8.8 billion. HP fired the chief executive who led the deal and, soon after, Mr. Lynch himself.

Meg Whitman, the former eBay leader who took over HP, accused Mr. Lynch and his lieutenants of “serious accounting improprieties” that misled her company over the state of Autonomy’s business.

But Mr. Lynch — armed with the hundreds of millions that he collected from Autonomy’s sale — hired an army of lawyers to argue that HP had been aware of the company’s practices. His team also said that Mr. Lynch had largely delegated the company’s day-to-day financial operations.

Mr. Lynch’s trial began in San Francisco in March. It stretched out over three months and involved reams of often dense internal documents. After two days of deliberations, a jury found Mr. Lynch and Stephen Chamberlain, a former Autonomy vice president of finance who faced similar charges, not guilty on all counts. (Mr. Chamberlain was fatally struck by a car on Saturday while out for a run, his lawyer, Gary S. Lincenberg, said Monday in an emailed statement.)

After the verdict, Mr. Lynch said in a statement, “I am looking forward to returning to the U.K. and getting back to what I love most: my family and innovating in my field.” He later returned to his homes, in London and Suffolk.

While defending himself against the HP accusations, Mr. Lynch became a venture capitalist, founding Invoke Capital to invest in companies including the cybersecurity provider Darktrace.

More recently, he had begun to focus on artificial intelligence research, including ways the technology could help those with hearing difficulties.

His survivors include his wife and another daughter, Esme.

Kirsten Noyes contributed research.

Michael J. de la Merced has covered global business and finance news for The Times since 2006. More about Michael J. de la Merced

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The Royal Yacht Britannia, Ocean Drive, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6JJ

Tel: 0131 555 5566 Email us: [email protected]

Please pre-book your tickets to guarantee admission

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pre-book tickets? 

We strongly recommend pre-booking tickets online to guarantee admission.

How are the tickets sent?

Tickets will be e-mailed to the e-mail address providing during ticket purchase. This e-mail can be shown on your phone/tablet or printed out. 

How can I pay for tickets?

You can pre-book tickets online or your can pay via card or contactless at the ticket desk on arrival. Please note that we do not currently accept cash. 

Can I pre-book with my vouchers?

It is not possible or necessary to pre-book with Britannia Gift Vouchers/Virgin Experience Days/Leisure vouchers. Please follow the instructions on your voucher and then bring your vouchers with you on the day and our team at the ticket desk will process your admission.

Do you offer military discount? 

Yes, we offer a   rate of £9.25. These discounted tickets are only available at the ticket desk. Please be reassured, even though it is not possible to book these discounted tickets in advance, you will still be able to buy your tickets and visit on the day.

Do you offer NHS discount?

How do I get to Britannia?

Click here for directions . 

When does the Yacht close and how long do I have after last admission?  

Our tickets are sold by arrival times and once you are on board you can stay as long as you wish within our opening hours. We close 2 hours after the last admission. 

* Ocean Terminal is currently undergoing redevelopment , adding new leisure and retail businesses, as well as residential spaces.  As part of this redevelopment, Britannia will also be gaining a  new Visitor Centre and Gift Shop  which will involve us operating out of temporary accommodation whilst these new facilities are being created. Our entrance and Gift Shop are currently on the Ground Floor of Ocean Terminal. 

The Royal Yacht Britannia is closed on 1 January and 25 December. Last admission on 24 December is 2:30pm. 

Can I change my date/time slot if I can no longer make it?  

Yes,  please  contact us on 0131 555 5566 or email  enquiries@tryb .co.uk , Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00.

Can I get a refund?

Bookings can be moved free of charge. Refunds are available up to 48 hours before your visit. To request a refund please e-mail [email protected] with your order reference.

I pre-booked my ticket but I'm running late, can I still visit?   

You can still visit, as long as you arrive within our opening hours. Our team at the ticket desk will let you on board as soon as possible on your arrival.

Can I leave luggage somewhere whilst I visit?

Due to operating out of temporary accommodation for our entrance, we are currently unable to store luggage.

How do I listen to your audio guide as I tour Britannia? 

Tours are self - guided and include an audio tour available on your mobile or an audio handset which is included in the  price of admission.  If possible, please bring your own headphones for use with your mobile phone. However if you are unable to do so, we do have headphones available on request from our handsets desk.   

Is Britannia accessible? 

Britannia is highly accessible via two central lifts. For further information please see  our   accessibility page  where you can find our  access statement .  

Please note, should you visit with someone acting in a carer capacity, they will receive free admission to Britannia. This ticket is only available on the day from the ticket desk on the ground floor of Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre. It is not necessary or possible to book this in advance, however please be reassured that they will be able to visit with you on the day. 

Is there a dress code to visit?

There is no formal dress code to visit however due the nature of the decks on board the ship, please wear sensible shoes, no high heels. Please wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for touring the five decks.

Will the Royal Deck Tearoom, NAAFI and Gift Shop be open? 

Yes, our Tearoom, Gift Shop and  NAAFI will be open. 

Will there be facilities and catering? 

Yes,  all of  our toilets and  the  Royal Deck Tearoom will be open. 

Can I pre-book a table in the Royal Deck Tearoom? 

No, as tables are allocated on a first come, first served basis. Please note that you must purchase a Britannia admission ticket or be an Annual Pass holder to visit the Royal Deck Tearoom.

Can I pre-book with my Annual Pass? 

Annual Pass holders do not need to pre-book, just come along at your chosen date/time within our admission hours and show your pass at the entrance on the Ground Floor of Ocean Terminal.

Is there parking? 

Visitors to Britannia should use the Ocean Terminal car park. Parking is free. There are accessible parking spaces and dedicated parent and child parking bays available.  

Is there motorhome parking available? 

There is no allocated motorhome parking. Car parking is free in the multi-story car park. There are however, frequent bus and tram  services to Ocean Terminal.  

How long is a typical tour of Britannia? 

We recommend you allow 2 hours for your visit. Please allow longer if you wish to visit our stunning  Royal Deck Tearoom .  

Can I bring my dog on board? 

We welcome guide dogs, hearing dogs and other recognised assistance dogs. It is not possible to bring other dogs into Ocean Terminal or on board Britannia.  

Can I take photographs on board? 

You are welcome to take photographs on board. There are some great photo opportunities, especially on the outer decks.  

Does Britannia have hotel accommodation? 

There is no hotel accommodation on The Royal Yacht Britannia. Our sister ship,  Fingal Hotel , offers 22 luxurious cabins, inspired by Fingal’s rich maritime heritage and named after Stevenson Lighthouses. Fingal Hotel is now permanently berthed just moments away from Britannia in the historic Port of Leith. Open to both overnight guests and non-residents, treat yourself to an unforgettable experience in  The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar , serving  Afternoon Tea , dinner   and spectacular  cocktails .  

I am an international traveller, can I visit following Brexit?

See advice for international visitors from national tourism agency VisitScotland here . 

Do you have a risk assessment?

Yes, you can see our risk assessment here .

Last updated: March 2024

Visiting Britannia

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The Royal Yacht Britannia is scheduled to be closed 7 – 10 October for planned building works out with our control.

Click on the Visit page  for more information before you visit.

Step aboard to enjoy a great day out!

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Get away from the everyday aboard Britannia’s sister ship, Fingal.  Extend your visit with a stay in one of Fingal’s luxurious cabins, your own oasis by the sea. 

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Inside the America’s Cup: The history, heroism and high stakes that make the competition one of the greatest in sport

More than 170 years since the trophy was first contested, sailing’s most glamorous event is about to hit the water off barcelona. christian broughton joins the preparations, with olympic gold-winning sailors, boats that almost fly, and some of the most powerful athletes in world sport, article bookmarked.

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I t’s impossible not to feel the adrenaline rush as the 75ft yacht races by, like a surreal reimagining of Formula 1, with shades of Star Wars, set on the high seas. The speed is breathtaking, but it’s the silence that gives this scene its sci-fi twist.

We’re a few hundred metres off Barcelona’s packed beaches, and Patriot, the New York Yacht Club’s entry into this year’s America’s Cup , is out on the water for a training day. The teams in this year’s competition are hoping to break 50 knots (92kph), yet this boat leaves barely any wake, makes not a sound, and as the sails twitch tight and the hull rises from the sea, it leaves our powerboat for dead. Scarcely touching the water, with only two hydrofoils beneath the surface, this thing really flies.

Is there anything in international sport that’s bigger than the Olympics? In sailing , there’s the America’s Cup. While the Games are the proving ground where sailors do battle in dinghies, this competition, dating back to 1851 and the oldest international competition in sport, will be contested in 75ft yachts with costs rumoured to run into eight figures. The latest edition of the race starts this month and will be run over several races until late October.

There’s something eerie about seeing so much power and control up close, and it’s not just the spectators who feel this way.

“You can’t be scared of these boats,” says Paul Goodison, one of the two helms in charge of Patriot. “You have to keep pushing. As soon as you start backing off is probably when you’re going to get bitten, so you always have to keep your foot down, and keep pushing, pushing, pushing.”

Goodison won gold for Team GB in Beijing in 2008 in the Laser class, while Ben Ainsley , his compatriot and the most decorated Olympic sailor in history, was winning gold in the Finn. Now they compete against each other, Ainsley in the British boat, INEOS Britannia.

For months the America’s Cup teams have been in testing around the port of Barcelona, finding the angles and sail set-up that gives maximum speed in different conditions on the local waters. There is a huge team supporting the sailing crew, forming a portside pitlane of assembled talents, from data scientists to naval architects. But when they finally line up against each other, it’s the skippers’ old rivalries that will be the focus of attention. Maybe even within the same team.

Each boat has two helms, or skippers, one on each side of the same boat, handing control to each other as the boat turns and the sail sweeps across, restricting visibility.

Goodison’s fellow helm is the Australian Tom Slingsby, last year’s Rolex World Sailor of the Year. The personal histories and rivalries have run for decades. Slingsby was on the crew of the US boat in the 2013 America’s Cup, alongside Ben Ainsley, as they scored one of the most famous and tight come-back victories in the competition’s history. And Slingsby won his Laser gold medal, at the London Olympics in 2012. All sports have their elite competitor dynamics, but in the America’s Cup, these are off the charts.

“We’ve competed against each other in the Olympic classes for the best part of 10 years,” says Goodison of his teammate. “We were archrivals for a long time. And we’ve been through cycles of being best mates, and then very abrasive, and then mates, and then abrasive. And it all comes from when you’re competing against somebody. You can’t really like them. You’ve got to crush them. You’ve got to beat them. And that was a big part of the Olympic cycle. But also with that, you gain a huge amount of respect. If you were to choose another guy to be beside you racing one of these, he’d be top of your list.”

The stakes are high. Though the US had the longest winning streak in sport, taking the first competition and then holding the America’s Cup for 132 years, it is Emirates Team New Zealand that currently holds the trophy. Last time around, in 2021 off the shores of Auckland, the American Magic team were thought to have the fastest boat in the fleet. They were clear of their Italian rivals, Prada, in the semi-final. But as they turned the mark, the boat overpowered, tipped, soared into the air and crashed back down, capsizing and very nearly sinking. The final was so close. Human error – though, it must be said, not Goodison’s.

But there is more to an America’s Cup crew than the skippers who make those high-pressure decisions. To see the boats glide by does not do justice to the muscle power on board. While the two lifting hydrofoils are controlled by electrical power, the huge, powerful sails are adjusted by the “meat batteries” (is there a more brutal description for a professional in all of sport?).

It’s a long time since America’s Cup boats used simple winches. Legs are far more powerful than arms, so these boats have ‘cyclors’ on board, with bike frames hidden within the hull, as the crew pedal furiously to power each turn.

For the American Magic team, this role is made all the more brutal by the demands of aerodynamics. Patriot is designed to be much sleeker and much more low-profile than her rivals – especially Ainsley’s muscle-car-looking INEOS Britannia. And that means the Patriot’s cyclors are pedalling for all their worth on recumbent cycles, facing backwards. “I hope they’re paying those guys well,” a rival team’s cyclor quipped later that day.

These “meat batteries” are serious units, chosen from backgrounds ranging from cycling to rowing – sports that demonstrate an ability to churn out power that’s beyond almost anyone else.

If the boats are space-age machines steeped in sporting heritage, so too is the gear the crew wears. American Magic have been working closely with Helly Hansen – the outdoor gear label that traces its own roots back almost as far as the competition, to Norway in 1877. Their technology team have been working with the sailors throughout, redesigning fabrics to be lighter and more flexible, changing the cut of the spray tops to allow ideal movement, and even rethinking the design of the buoyancy aids.

But even the Helly Hansen performance team were not prepared for the cylcors. As they worked with the boat’s big beasts, they discovered they had to cut the legs of their kit much wider to accommodate all that power and make the fabrics capable of dumping huge amounts of body heat.

If you want to write your own name into America’s Cup history, and you don’t have an Olympic sailing gold to hand, you might consider becoming a cyclor. To apply for this most gruelling physical test in sport, you’ll only get the attention of American Magic’s head of performance, Ben Day, if you can already send huge power through your training bike . This is not about being light yet powerful – it’s not the Tour de France, you’re not cycling up a mountain. This is all about “absolute watts”.

If you can sustain around 450 watts for 20 minutes, and peak at 1,000 for 30 seconds, “then, I say, let’s have a chat,” says Day. But look down at the wattage at the peak of your spin class or Peloton session and you might see a humbling comparison. I know from experience. After some gruff encouragement from Day, I gave it my all. Did I hit 450 watts? Yes. Did I hold it for 20 minutes? It was a struggle to hold it for one. And this was in the air-conditioned, stable luxury of the American Magic base camp.

It’s all a long way from the competition’s beginnings. Back then, it was the year of the Great Exhibition, and the Royal Yacht Squadron, based in Cowes on the Isle of Wight, off England’s south coast, had invited the New York Yacht Club to join them.

The script was clear: the regatta was set to be a showcase of maritime supremacy, a demonstration of just how invincibly Britannia ruled the waves. But what played out on the water was one of the greatest upsets in sporting history.

A radically designed 100ft schooner with concave bows, slick black hull and flat sails, America had proven herself capable of clocking up more than 200 miles in a day as she crossed the Atlantic. Backed by a syndicate, Stevens had commissioned local brothers James and George Steers to build her, negotiating the price down to $20,000 ($814,000 today).

The yacht’s captain was Richard Brown, a renowned Sandy Hook pilot, with skills forged in the sharp-edged competition of the new world, navigating tricky waters at pace to beat the local competition to incoming ships and win the business of guiding them into the booming harbour of New York.

Accounts of exactly what happened upon America’s arrival in British waters are disputed – as can be the case when pride and reputation are at stake, and the sporting action takes place out at sea, away from the gaze of too many witnesses. She may – or may not – have left a renowned local boat in her wake in an initial encounter. Certainly, the locals seemed intimidated after that initial skirmish, with the American crew forced to wait for someone to accept their challenge. “It could not be imagined,” wrote The Times , “that the English would allow an illustrious stranger to boast that he has flung down the gauntlet to England and had been unable to find a taker.’’

Some days later, on 22 August, the now infamous challenge was set. A £100 ewer, from the London silversmith Garrard, was to be the prize. Fifteen yachts – seven schooners and eight smaller cutters – officially started the 53-mile course, running clockwise around the island. One of the favourites ran aground, and another went to help, pulling out of the race. Two others crashed into each other. And so the challenger from across the Atlantic took the spoils.

One of the two yachts that collided off Ventnor that day was named Volante, Italian for “flying”. A glimpse of the future, perhaps, and of the yachts that today hover above the waves.

As American Magic’s training day nears its end, the challenger from Italy, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, bankrolled by the fashion house billionaire Patrizio Bertelli, emerges, shimmering in its mirrored silver finish. The two boats tack near each other, then pull away, honing their skills as they drop their foils into the water, turn through the wind and then speed off with just one foil and the rudder touching the water.

At this stage, it’s a practice only – the rules strictly prohibit them from lining up against each other until the competitive action begins. But with so much money, pride and history at stake, you can tell they’re sparring, seeing where the other boat looks slicker and quicker. Come Thursday (22 August), as the 37th America’s Cup finally takes to the water, the real race – one of the greatest and most glamorous in sport – will be on.

To watch the America’s Cup: americascup.com

The author travelled to Barcelona with Helly Hansen: to see the Helly Hansen American Magic crew clothing, visit hellyhansen.com

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