Reunion Celebrates Maritime Tradition as King Reminisces with Ex-Sailors
King Charles Shares Rum Toast with Former Royal Yacht Britannia Crew
Reunion Celebrates Maritime Tradition as King Reminisces with Ex-Sailors
Category: National
King Charles marked a nostalgic return to the Royal Yacht Britannia in Leith, Scotland, where he joined former crew members in a traditional rum toast. The monarch’s visit, the first in more than 25 years since the vessel was decommissioned in 1997, revived memories of life aboard the ship once considered a “home” for the royal family during its 43 years of service. Charles raised a tot of rum in a traditional navy toast with the “Yachties,” acknowledging their dedication with the words, “To all the marvellous Yachties who keep it all going, you are all brilliant.”
The practice of daily rum rations for Royal Navy sailors ended in 1970, but the late Queen Elizabeth II occasionally allowed Britannia’s crew to partake on special occasions. Charles playfully puffed his cheeks after taking a sip of the potent Pusser’s Rum, to the amusement of those present. A dropped glass during the gathering added to the lighthearted atmosphere.
Former crew members, now part of the Association of Royal Yachtsmen, spoke warmly of their time aboard Britannia, recalling its role as both a diplomatic tool and a private retreat for the royals. Mark Carron, a former crew member, shared anecdotes from his conversation with Charles, noting the King’s fondness for the distinctive scent of rum. Britannia’s unique position as a place where the royal family could relax away from public scrutiny was emphasised by former marine engineer Wiz Wiseman, who recounted tales of life and discipline on board.
The King’s naval service, which included commanding HMS Bronington until 1976, followed the end of the free rum ration era. Nonetheless, Britannia’s legacy endures as a symbol of royal family life and diplomacy, having traversed more than a million nautical miles during its operational years.
