Leith,
Edinburgh,
EH6 6JJ
The Royal Yacht Britannia first launched in 1953 was the official seafaring vessel of Queen Elizabeth II and the British royal family for over four decades. Used for state visits, royal vacations, and diplomatic trips, the vessel is now a popular tourist attraction moored in Edinburgh where it offers a fascinating glimpse into royal life.
Throughout its working life, the Royal Yacht Britannia was the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II during her overseas tours, sailing over one million miles around the world while promoting British interests abroad.
The vessel is now kept in immaculate condition by the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust and is open year-round for visitors to follow in the footsteps of world leaders as they explore the royal’s private quarters and the below-deck rooms. Self-guided audio tours will take you to every nook and cranny of this enormous ship while information panels explain what life would have been like on board the vessel in its heyday.
There’s also an excellent restaurant onboard on the upper deck as well as a gift shop in the visitor centre, and as Britannia is moored alongside Ocean Terminal you can easily visit the restaurants, shops, and cinema that the waterfront shopping complex has to offer.
1: The Royal Yacht Britannia served as the floating residence of the British Royal Family for over 40 years. Exploring this iconic vessel gives you a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating maritime history of the Royal Family and discover the stories behind their voyages and state visits.
2: The Royal Yacht Britannia has been meticulously preserved since its decommissioning in 1997. As you explore the ship, you’ll be able to view the opulent interiors which include the State Apartments, the Royal Bedrooms, and the impressive Royal Deck Tea Room.
3: The Royal Yacht Britannia is located in the historic port of Leith, just a short distance from Edinburgh’s city centre. The yacht is docked permanently, allowing visitors to soak in the waterfront views while they explore the vessel. After your visit, you can take a walk to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Leith with its charming shops and restaurants.
1: Although the tickets are a wee bit pricey there’s a lot to see so you’ll spend a good 2-3 hours on Britannia. While the tickets are expensive if you only make one visit, they allow unlimited re-entry for one year, so keep hold of them in case you decide to return another day.
2: Ocean Terminal is a nice shopping centre with a cinema and several cafes and restaurants. You could easily stretch your Britannia visit to last most of the day if you use those facilities.
3: If you want to explore the city centre after a visit to Britannia take Lothian Bus services 11, 22, 34, 35 and 36. Highlights of Edinburgh include Edinburgh Castle (obviously), Calton Hill , The Scott Monument , Holyrood Park and Holyrood Palace .
The ship is entered via the visitor centre in Ocean Terminal which is situated on the top floor of the shopping mall. As you walk around Britannia’s five main decks on a self-guided tour you can listen to an audio guide that explains what life was like on board not only for the royal inhabitants but also for the Royal Navy crew that manned it during its voyages.
Starting at the bridge you pass through the state apartments, the crew quarters, and the engine room before finally reaching the racing yacht Bloodhound which is part of an interesting royal sailing exhibition.
There are many highlights of this ship that all family members will enjoy – including the huge state banquet room with its massive dining table and the gleaming Rolls Royce Phantom that used to travel on the ship along with the Royal Family.
If you fancy a wee treat you can pick up some delicious homemade fudge in the NAAFI sweet shop. but make sure you leave enough room for the Royal Deck Tea Room where you can sample top-notch Scottish cuisine as well as coffee and sandwiches. The entry ticket includes free re-admittance for one year so if you ever go back to Ocean Terminal you could always take another visit just for the restaurant.
Britannia was built at the Clydebank shipyards near Glasgow and successfully launched in 1953, with its maiden voyage to Malta beginning in 1954. During its time at sea, Britannia was manned by volunteers from the Royal Navy, some of whom liked it so much they served onboard for over 20 years.
Whenever royalty was on the vessel a full troop of Royal Marines accompanied them, and during this time they would have sailed around the globe several times as the royal family undertook their ambassadorial duties in almost every nation on earth. Britannia also performed services as an aid ship, evacuating over 1,000 refugees from the civil war in Aden in 1986, and was ready to be converted into a hospital ship at a moment’s notice.
Britannia was eventually decommissioned in 1997 after mounting political pressure regarding the cost of maintenance made its continued use impossible. The ship was finally tied up at Ocean Terminal where The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust was set up to look after it. Today, more than 300,000 people visit the Royal Yacht Britannia each year, making it one of the top five tourist attractions in Scotland.
Check out the Britannia Visitor Centre : Start your visit at the Britannia Visitor Centre located in Ocean Terminal. There, you can discover Britannia’s fascinating history through exhibits and photographs before you step aboard the yacht itself.
Explore the Royal Yacht Britannia : Step aboard the British monarch’s former floating palace and explore the state apartments, crew’s quarters, and engine room. This magnificent ship offers a unique glimpse into royal life at sea thanks to audio guides which are included in the ticket price.
Tea at The Royal Deck Tea Room : After your tour, unwind at the Royal Deck Tea Room. Enjoy traditional teas, delicious cakes, sandwiches, and spectacular views of the docks and the Firth of Forth . It’s a great way to reflect on your visit to Britannia before deciding where to go next.
Attend a Special Event : The Royal Yacht Britannia hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from Hogmanay celebrations to Burn’s Night suppers . To see which events are coming up next, head to the official Royal Yacht Britannia website .
Visit The Gift Shop : You cannot miss Britannia’s gift shop in Ocean Terminal which offers a wide range of exclusive gifts and souvenirs. From royal memorabilia to nautical-themed toys, you’re bound to find the perfect memento for your visit.
Ocean Terminal . 74 Ocean Dr., Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6JJ. 2-minute walk. A large shopping centre that’s one of the first arrival points for ships sailing into the Firth of Forth. Ocean Terminal contains a collection of restaurants, coffee shops, and department stores.
Leith . 8-minute walk. A vibrant and historic area of Edinburgh that is renowned for its trendy bars and restaurants. Leith is architecturally significant for the number of restored Victorian warehouses that line Commercial Street and Bernard Street. Some of Scotland’s best restaurants are located in Leith, including The Kitchin and Wishart.
The Water of Leith . Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6HE. 11-minute walk. A walkway that runs for 12 miles from the Colzium Hills outside of Edinburgh to Leith. The majority of the path is set on quiet pavement that runs alongside the river. Much loved by locals for its wildlife.
Leith Links . 4 Links Gardens, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 8AA. 18-minute walk. Informal gardens and a play park that was historically a golf course but has been revamped into a recreation area.
Scotch Malt Whisky Society . The Vaults, 87 Giles St, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6BZ. 13-minute walk. The Vaults is the main site for the SMWS in Edinburgh. Visitors can sample a range of quality single malt whiskies as well as gins and rums, along with optional expert-led tasting sessions.
Where is the royal yacht britannia berthed.
The Royal Yacht Britannia is berthed at Leith Port in Edinburgh, next to the Ocean Terminal shopping centre. Ocean Terminal is a 15-minute drive from Edinburgh city centre, and the Royal Yacht Britannia Visitor Centre is on the second floor. Address: Ocean Terminal, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6JJ.
No, the British Royal Family does not currently have a yacht. The last royal yacht was the HMY Britannia, which was decommissioned in 1997 and is now a museum ship in Edinburgh.
The Royal Yacht Britannia is owned and managed by the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust.
The Royal Yacht Britannia was decommissioned in 1997 due to maintenance costs and changing politics which meant the yacht was considered unnecessary. It was estimated in 1996 that a refit would cost £17 million and would only prolong the ship’s life for an additional 5 years.
Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .
It doesn't get more majestic than Queen Elizabeth II's yacht.
Seventy years ago, the Britannia began its journey as the royal yacht for Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family of the United Kingdom. Over the next 44 years she’d travel more than a million nautical miles and, in all her glamour and old world elegance, served as a residence that welcomed state visits from all over the world and family holidays alike. Then and now, she was and is a majestic symbol of the British Commonwealth and the reign of Queen Elizabeth II .
“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?
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.
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.
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 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
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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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.
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
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:
And to top it all, you also get unlimited travel for 48 hours on three of Edinburgh’s hop-on-hop-off bus tours.
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 .
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
The State Apartments are the collection of rooms where the Royals lived or entertained their guests.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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)
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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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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Catch a glimpse of Queen Elizabeth’s preferred room, see the honeymoon bed requested by Charles, and find out why a wombat takes pride of place in a roof fan during this self-guided tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh. After 44 years of royal service, HMY Britannia is berthed at Ocean Terminal in Leith and open to visitors who want to learn more about how the royals live.
However, a tour of Britannia is much more than just pulling back the curtains on an episode of The Crown, the tour goes deep into life at sea logistics, touches upon UK history and discusses the engineering of this floating palace.
You’ll get a sneak peek at the bowels of the Britannia as well as its bow. So let’s dive into the Royal Yacht Britannia tour review and photography.
Setting and location.
While there is no shortage of royal attractions in the Old Town, the Royal Yacht Britannia is actually located in the lesser-known, very hip and adored Edinburgh neighbourhood, Leith .
You can get to Leith via public bus, taxi or the hop on/hop off bus tour using the Majestic Tour line .
If you have a car, the Royal Yacht Britannia is one of the very few Edinburgh attractions that you can park at for free.
Parking is available at the Ocean Terminal shopping centre/mall where you will find the entrance of the yacht reception area.
Once you go through reception you will see a number of storyboards and artefacts as you move through to collect your audio guide.
Guest restrooms are located in this area and on the yacht.
The audio guide is narrated by the dreamy BAFTA award winner Mark Bonnar who you may recognise from the outstanding UK TV show, Line of Duty and the Scottish TV series, Shetland.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mark Bonnar (@mark_bonnar)
Visitors can choose between the sanitised audio device which is held up to the ear or using their own headphones and phone.
At each station, you type in a number to access the corresponding facts and stories about the exhibit.
The audio tour comes in 30 languages and there is a children’s version.
British and American Sign Language tablets are also available.
There are five decks to explore which take around 1.5 hours to walk through.
To access each deck you use the stairs or elevator in Ocean Terminal then walk over a bridge to get to the deck.
You do this each time you move between the decks, starting at the top and working your way down.
You can enjoy coffee and/or lunch at The Royal Deck Tea Room, which is only open to those who have paid to visit HMY Britannia.
Look how lovely and light the tea room is!
Afternoon teas are available, dahlin’.
The tour kicks off among the tempting buttons, teasing dials and shiny plaques of the top deck Bridge.
This is where much of the control took place which was the responsibility of the Britannia’s Admiral or Commodore.
There is only one seat in this room that overlooks the yacht bow reserved for the man in charge.
Next, the tour takes you outside to the bow which is probably one of the most recognisable areas since this is where the royals would wave from when arriving at their destination.
A wooden lip was added to the bow to keep the wind from lifting up a royal skirt!
One of my favourite spots was the two-inch teak Verandah Deck which acted as a games deck, muse for art, hosted private engagements and doubled up as a swimming pool area for the kids!
The deck was cleaned daily before 8am and all work was conducted in silence so as to not disturb the royals as they slept.
The deck is also where the family photos were taken and acted as the pre-reception area for Zara and Mike Tindall’s wedding.
The tour then takes you inside the yacht, through the Queen’s favourite room, the Sun Lounge, which has floor to ceiling windows viewing the Verandah Deck.
Next up is a nosey into the State Apartments which include the separate bedrooms of Queen Elizabeth (first image) and Prince Phillip (second image) and the honeymoon suite (third image) which has a double bed, at Prince Charles request.
Did you know that you can stay in a castle in Scotland?
The tour also has access to The State Drawing Room with its country home feel, piano and games.
This room was used for relaxing and entertaining.
Live music was an important part of HMY Britannia’s life and the Royal Marines Band could switch between a ceilidh and classical song with no hesitation.
They could also play every national anthem of the countries the royal yacht docked at, which is a reminder that this vessel has sailed over one million miles.
The lower you go down the decks, the greater insight you get into the workings of HMY Britannia.
From the pecking order living arrangements, including segregated pubs, to the bedroom dorms, it is evident that life at sea onboard Britannia was not an easy one for workers and sailors.
However, they appeared to create a good balance between work and fun creating games including one with a stuffed wombat, I won’t spoil the surprise!
During the tour, you will learn more than just facts about the royal family but also stories about the seamen, superstition, tradition and logistics.
Along with the original room content, there is lots of artwork and photography that compliment the audio guide.
If you are planning a trip from the States, check out this article on things every North American should know before visiting Scotland .
With GetYourGuide, tours have a 24-hour cancellation guarantee so if you can’t make it, you don’t lose your money.
HMY Britannia was used for royal service from 1954 to 1997.
It was announced on 23 June 1994 that HMY Britannia would not be refitted due to cost.
Yes, over 300,000 people visit the royal yacht each year.
The Royal Yacht Britannia is looked after by the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust.
The Royal Yacht Britannia is located in Ocean Terminal which is home to a number of restaurants, a cinema and the cool Leith Collective should which is a great store for local souvenirs.
A five-minute walk from Ocean Terminal is Leith Shore and the independent bars and restaurants that surround it.
Enjoy fine dining at The Kitchen, seafood at The Ship On The Shore, brunch at The Kings Wharf or Nobles, lunch at The Hideout Cafe, afternoon tea at Mimi’s Bakehouse, cocktails at the Roseleaf or a cold pint at Teuchters Landing.
From Leith you can walk up Leith Walk to Princes Street or along the Water of Leith Walkway to Stockbridge where you will find a Sunday market, cafes galore and a path to the historic Dean Village.
Find out more about Stockbridge here .
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The Royal Yacht Britannia, Ocean Drive, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6JJ
Tel: 0131 555 5566 Email us: [email protected]
The Royal Yacht Britannia is scheduled to be closed 9 & 10 October for planned building works beyond our control
Contact: 0131 555 8800
Email: [email protected]
Stay at our five-star 22-cabin luxury floating hotel, Fingal.
There is no better way to discover for yourself the splendour of this iconic floating palace than with a behind-the-ropes private tour.
Your experience will begin with a red carpet arrival, where you will then be welcomed aboard via the Royal Brow, the entrance previously reserved for Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family. Your expert guide will show you through this iconic ship, giving you the opportunity to step inside the Admiral’s Cabin and discover the charm of the beautiful State Apartments, as seen in the popular Netflix series ‘The Crown’. You can also get a close-up look within the elegant State Dining Room, where Her Majesty entertained royalty, dignitaries and celebrities from around the world. The finale of this in-depth tour includes refreshments in the Royal Deck during a morning tour or a glass of Champagne in the evening. You will also receive an official Britannia Guidebook to take with you as a memento of your visit!
Click the following links for more information on our Private Morning Tour and Private Evening Tour .
Mark the coronation of King Charles III with a private tour about Britannia. Click here to find out more.
To enjoy a Champagne Afternoon Tea aboard sister ship, Fingal, followed by a Private Evening Tour of The Royal Yacht Britannia, click here .
For further information please contact our Events team on +44(0)131 555 8800 or email: [email protected].
TRIPADVISOR'S NO.1 UK ATTRACTION 2023 - 2024
The Royal Yacht Britannia is scheduled to be closed 9 & 10 October for planned building works beyond our control.
Click on the Visit page for more information before you visit.
Step aboard to enjoy a great day out!
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.
TRIPADVISOR'S NO.1 UK LUXURY HOTEL TRIPADVISOR'S NO.1 UK SMALL & BOUTIQUE HOTEL AA Hotel of the Year Scotland, AA five-star hotel and 2 AA Rosettes
Learn more: fingal.co.uk
Important information: please read before booking.
Select a time to arrive. You can then stay on board as long as you wish within our opening hours.
Tickets will be e-mailed to the e-mail address provided during online purchase.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
2 adults and up to 3 children.
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Tver, a picturesque city situated on the banks of the Volga River, is one of the jewels of Russia’s Golden Ring. It offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will uncover all that you need to know about Tver, including the best time to visit, must-see places, exciting activities, transportation options, dining experiences, accommodation choices, famous street markets, and essential travel tips to make your journey through this historic heart truly unforgettable.
About Tver: Location: Tver is located in the Tver Oblast, which is a part of the renowned Golden Ring—an ensemble of historic cities in Russia. It is situated about 170 kilometers northwest of Moscow.
Historical Significance: Tver boasts a rich historical legacy and has played a significant role in Russian history, with ties to figures such as Ivan the Terrible.
Best Time to Visit Tver: Summer (June to August): Summer is the prime tourist season in Tver. The weather is warm, and the city’s parks and riverside areas come alive with events and festivals.
Spring (May and early June) and Autumn (September): These seasons provide milder weather and are perfect for exploring the city with fewer crowds.
Winter (December to February): For those who appreciate the charm of winter, Tver offers a unique experience with snowy landscapes and festive celebrations.
Places to Visit in Tver: Tver Volga River Embankment: Stroll along the Volga River Embankment, which offers stunning views of the river and the iconic Starovolzhsky Bridge.
Tver Imperial Palace: Explore the Tver Imperial Palace, a magnificent neoclassical building that serves as a museum dedicated to the city’s history.
Tver Drama Theater: Enjoy a cultural performance at the Tver Drama Theater, which hosts a variety of plays and musical events throughout the year.
Mikhail Krug Monument: Pay a visit to the Mikhail Krug Monument, a tribute to the famous Russian singer-songwriter.
Things to Do in Tver: Historical Exploration: Delve into the city’s history by visiting museums, historic sites, and architectural landmarks that highlight Tver’s cultural heritage.
Volga River Activities: Take advantage of the city’s riverside location with activities such as boat tours, kayaking, or simply enjoying a leisurely picnic by the river.
Local Festivals: Participate in local festivals and cultural events that celebrate the city’s traditions, including music and arts festivals.
Local Cuisine: Savor the flavors of Tver by indulging in traditional Russian dishes and local specialties, often featuring fresh ingredients from the region.
How to Get Around Tver: Public Transportation: Tver has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, which provide convenient options for getting around the city.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available and offer a comfortable and efficient way to travel within Tver.
Walking: Tver is a pedestrian-friendly city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Rental Bicycles: Consider renting a bicycle to explore the city at your own pace and enjoy the scenic riverside paths.
Where to Eat in Tver: Russian Cuisine: Sample traditional Russian dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and shashlik at local restaurants to savor the authentic flavors of the region.
Local Specialties: Indulge in dishes unique to Tver, which often feature ingredients and recipes distinctive to the city.
Cafes and Bakeries: For a quick snack or a cup of coffee, Tver boasts numerous cafes and bakeries that offer a range of pastries and beverages.
Famous Street Stalls in Tver: While street food culture may not be as prevalent in Tver as in larger cities, you can find local stalls offering traditional Russian snacks and street food in certain areas.
Where to Stay in Tver: Hotels: Tver offers a range of hotels, from luxury options to more budget-friendly choices. Some popular hotels in the city include the Osnabruck Hotel, the Volga Hotel, and the Aquarel Hotel.
Guesthouses and Homestays: For a more personal and immersive experience, consider staying in guesthouses or homestays to connect with locals and experience their way of life.
Boutique Accommodations: Explore boutique hotels or accommodations with unique character that offer a distinct experience in the heart of the city.
Travel Tips for Tver: Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary visa to enter Russia. Visa regulations can be strict, so check well in advance of your trip.
Language Barrier: English may not be widely spoken, so it’s helpful to learn some basic Russian phrases or have a translation app handy.
Weather Preparation: Depending on the season of your visit, pack accordingly. Winters can be cold, so bring warm clothing.
Respect Local Customs: Russian culture values politeness and respect. Be courteous to the locals and follow cultural norms.
Currency Exchange: The currency used in Tver is the Russian Ruble (RUB). Ensure you have cash or access to ATMs for financial transactions.
Conclusion: Tver, with its rich history, picturesque riverbanks, and cultural heritage, is a city that promises a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you’re drawn to historical landmarks, riverside activities, or local cuisine, Tver has something for every type of traveler. By following the travel tips provided, you can make the most of your visit to this historic heart of the Golden Ring, whether you come in the summer, winter, or any other season. Tver is a destination that offers a glimpse into history’s charm and the opportunity to create lasting memories.
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Start your tour at our entrance, currently located on the Ground Floor of Ocean Terminal. Please note that tickets purchased in person are by card/contactless only. The Royal Yacht Britannia is scheduled to be closed 9 & 10 October for planned building works out with our control. Click on the Visit page for more information before you visit.
A Royal residence for over 40 years, The Royal Yacht Britannia sailed over 1,000,000 nautical miles on 968 state visits with the Royal Family where they entertained prime ministers and presidents. Now Tripadvisor's No.1 UK Attraction 2023 - 2024, you can discover across five decks stories of life at sea for both the Royal Family and the 220 ...
Step aboard Queen Elizabeth II's former floating palace and experience this iconic attraction for yourself. Rated Tripadvisor's No.1 UK Attraction (AGAIN), Britannia is one of the most famous ships in the world…Royal Deck Tearoom. Only 15 minutes from Edinburgh City Centre. Lothian Bus services from Edinburgh city centre are - 10, 16, 34 ...
Then, our Britannia bus goes all the way to Leith and the majestic Royal Yacht Britannia. There are lots more sights to see when you're on board our Edinburgh bus tours, too! Journey Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes. Frequency: Runs Every Hour. Starting Point: Waterloo Place, or hop on at any of our Edinburgh Britannia Tour stops.
from. $26.69. Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour and Royal Yacht Britannia. 16. When your cruise ship arrives in Edinburgh, get to know Scotland's capital on this full-day shore excursion. Board a comfortable coach which takes you to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of the British monarchy.
Both Morning and Evening tours are available. Call our events team on +44 (0) 131 555 8800 or for more information visit click here. PRESERVING BRITANNIA. Britannia is cared for by The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, a self-funding charity registered in Scotland (SC028070).
Registered Company Address : The Royal Yacht Britannia, Ocean Drive, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6JJ Registered Company Number : SC18547 Payments
Step aboard Queen Elizabeth II's former floating palace and experience this iconic attraction for yourself. Rated Tripadvisor's No.1 UK Attraction (AGAIN), Britannia is one of the most famous ships in the world…Royal Deck Tearoom. Only 15 minutes from Edinburgh City Centre. Lothian Bus services from Edinburgh city centre are - 10, 16, 34 ...
Glimpse into the lifestyle of the Royals with an audio tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia - the floating palace of Her Majesty the Queen for more than 40 years. Independently explore the stately ship's five decks, peeking into elaborately decorated rooms like the State Apartments, the State Drawing Room, the Queen's Bedroom and more. Add to the unique experience with some refreshment in ...
100 Reviews. For 44 years, the Royal Yacht Britannia (HMY Britannia) carried the British royal family across the high seas to destinations near and far. After retiring in 1997, the vessel took up a permanent residency at the historic port of Leith in Edinburgh, where curious visitors now come to find out more about royal life at sea. Learn more.
Board a comfortable coach which takes you to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of the British monarchy. Then enjoy a panoramic tour of Edinburgh before stopping to explore medieval Edinburgh Castle, once residence to Scotland's kings and queens. Use your free time for lunch (own expense) and to explore the famous Royal ...
The Royal Yacht Britannia is the former royal yacht of HM Queen Elizabeth II and is located at the Ocean Terminal shopping centre in Edinburgh.The yacht is one of Scotland's premier tourist attractions, and visitors can explore it on a self-guided tour that takes them through the main dining hall, the royal family's private quarters, and the engine room.
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 ...
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 ...
However, a tour of Britannia is much more than just pulling back the curtains on an episode of The Crown, the tour goes deep into life at sea logistics, touches upon UK history and discusses the engineering of this floating palace. You'll get a sneak peek at the bowels of the Britannia as well as its bow. So let's dive into the Royal Yacht ...
Step aboard Queen Elizabeth II's former floating palace and experience this iconic attraction for yourself. Rated Tripadvisor's No.1 UK Attraction (AGAIN), Britannia is one of the most famous ships in the world…Royal Deck Tearoom. Only 15 minutes from Edinburgh City Centre. Lothian Bus services from Edinburgh city centre are - 10, 16, 34 ...
For further information please contact our Events team on +44 (0)131 555 8800 or email: [email protected]. Experience a private tour on The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, exploring Britannia's five decks with one of our knowledgeable tour guides. Book now.
Edinburgh: Hop-On Hop-Off Combo City and Britannia Bus Tour. Explore Edinburgh with a 48-hour hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus pass. See famous landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Palace of Holyrood House while learning about their historical significance from the onboard audio commentary.
Tickets will be e-mailed to the e-mail address provided during online purchase. On average, a tour takes 1.5 - 2 hours with additional time should you wish to visit the Royal Deck Tearoom. Special offers or discounts are available when purchasing online (except Armed Forces or Student tickets*). Simply enter the reference number at the checkout ...
Things to Do Restaurants Flights Travel Stories Cruises Rental Cars More. Tours Add a Place Travel Forum Airlines Travelers' Choice Help Center. Plan Your Trip to Tver: Best of Tver Tourism. By Evgeny B. 12,168. Tver, Russia. ... Royal Martyrs Church. 3. Points of Interest & Landmarks, Churches & Cathedrals. Tver Regional Academic Drama Theater ...
Sheffield Railway Station Antisocial Cannabis Club Walmer Castle and Gardens Britannia Royal Naval College Gerry's Club St Conan's Kirk Burrow Farm Gardens Tooting Common Teignmouth Town Beach The Grosvenor Victoria Casino London Expert Led Tour about the Spanish Civil War in Madrid 3-Day North Coast 500 Small-Group Tour from Inverness ...
Calling all foodies! Eat your way through Tver and discover the best spots to enjoy the local cuisine. Find & book the best Tver food & drink tours, tastings, classes and more on Tripadvisor.
Location: Tver is located in the Tver Oblast, which is a part of the renowned Golden Ring—an ensemble of historic cities in Russia. It is situated about 170 kilometers northwest of Moscow. Historical Significance: Tver boasts a rich historical legacy and has played a significant role in Russian history, with ties to figures such as Ivan the ...