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The Royal Yacht Britannia
Scottish Attractions > Royal Yacht Britannia The most famous ship in the world, the Royal Yacht Britannia was launched at John Brown's Shipyard in Clydebank on the 16th April 1953.
Britannia has carried on a tradition of Royal Yachts, dating as far back as 300 years to the reign of Charles II. Moored at Leith, a short bus ride from the centre of Edinburgh, and with the airport less than 30 minutes away, this magnificent ship has been host to some of the worlds most famous people. The Royal Yacht Britannia, recommended by BBC News as "Scotland's leading visitor-friendly attraction", is a must-see when in Edinburgh. Britannia was originally intended to serve as a mobile refuge for the Royal Family in the event of nuclear warfare with the Soviet Union, but Britannia is now the most popular of Leith's attractions. In addition to her official duties She was used to promote British industry abroad, and four Royal couples have honeymooned on board, including Prince Charles and Princess Diana. When none of the royal family were on board, the jack and ensign were worn in the normal fashion. The Royal Yacht Britannia has sailed all over the world, from the South Seas to Antarctica. Her 4,000 tons was designed so that she could be converted into a hospital ship if that became necessary. Decommissioned in 1997, when The Queen decided that no other Royal Yacht would replace Her, corporate guests can now enjoy sampling fine cuisine from her fully-functioning galleys. After fierce competition from other cities in the UK, Edinburgh became successful in her bid to become Her new home, and She is now Scotland's seventh most popular paid-for tourist attraction.
Guests are piped aboard via the Royal Brow and taken on a personal tour, then welcomed into the State Apartments where they can enjoy cocktails and canapés. After dinner, guests can enjoy a talk by one of Britannia’s past Admirals, and evening events are hosted in the State Apartments, furnished with original items from the Royal Collection. Your visit starts with a look around the Visitor Centre, located on the second floor of the Ocean Terminal. Here you will find photographs, exhibits and displays. Discover Britannia's fascinating past before collecting your audio handset and stepping on board, following in the footsteps of Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family. The personal audio tour will lead you around the Yacht's five decks. Starting at the Bridge and finishing in the Engine Room, you will get a glimpse of not only the British Royal Family life, but also the reality of life and work on board. You will also be allowed to view the royal bedrooms, but not enter them as the yacht's new owners consider that such access would be "inappropriate". Your tour ends in the Engine Room, spectacular and gleaming as it has always been. After your tour, you can visit the Royal Yacht Britannia shop where you will find a fine selection of exclusive gifts. To get the best from your Royal Yacht Britannia tour I would recommend you allow at least two hours. A fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Royal family, this is now one of Edinburgh's most popular attractions. Opening Times & Admission Prices April - October 9.30-4.30
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