Yotties’ Week
The Royal Yacht Britannia - Edinburgh, Scotland
Hop aboard and let’s set sail to…
Are you a fan of The Crown, have an adoration for Queen Elizabeth II, or love yachting? If so, you’ll enjoy this journey!
Planning this trip to Edinburgh, Britannia was at the top of the list and did not disappoint! Upon arriving, we purchased our tickets and walked through an informative historical museum of Britannia, which included a timeline of events, photographs, uniforms worn by the Royal Yachtsmen and the Royal family, as well as other memorabilia. This was done exceptionally well, not too long and not too short, and you view this before heading onto Britannia itself. Getting this historical account beforehand sets up for an even greater experience onboard.
As you leave this area and head to the Royal Yacht, there is an air of expectation and excitement as you embark on this magnificent site. Britannia was the Queen’s prized possession. It was very interesting learning more about her love for the sea and the uses of the yacht beyond the Royal family festivities.
Here’s some fun facts about Britannia (which can all be found on Britannia’s site!):
Over 1 million miles sailed
44 years of service
250 crew members
First Royal Yacht to be built with complete ocean-going capacity
Majestic symbol of the Commonwealth in Great Britain
Ambassador generating billions of pounds in trade deals
Royal residence for important state visits and official receptions
Once aboard, walking and viewing this impressive site, there were men dressed in white uniforms working on various aspects of the ship. Stopping to view Prince Philip’s Royal uniform in an area next to the dining room below deck, one of these men approached us and started sharing stories from his time aboard the Royal Yacht. He told us of many fascinating experiences traveling around the world and being with the Royal family. One story he shared was regarding Princess Diana and how she would love to come into the living area and play the piano and sing, while the children would dance around and sing right along with her. The stories were both heartwarming and hilarious. It was also through this conversation we discovered that it was Yotties’ Week!
Yotties’ Week happens once a year when all the former Royal Yachtsmen step aboard Britannia once again and help alongside the current team maintaining the Royal Yacht. They love to stop and have a chat, reminiscing and sharing stories (as our Yottie did) to those touring. It’s truly an experience you will never forget!
So, dear discoverer, if you are looking for an exceptional experience by the sea filled with history (and so much FUN!), add The Royal Yacht Britannia to your list and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Much love,
