The Royal Yacht Britannia Edinburgh

Britannia 1953 - 1997

For over forty years The Royal Yacht Britannia served The Royal Family, travelling over 1 million miles to become the most famous ship in the world. Travelling to every corner of the globe, in a career spanning 968 Royal and Official visits, she played a leading role in some of the defining moments of recent history. So as you can imagine this unique vessel has a fascinating story to tell. And now that she has made Edinburgh's historic port of Leith her final home you can discover her story for yourself. Follow in the footsteps of Kings, Queens, Presidents, and Prime Ministers and step aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia.

Britannia
Launched on the 16^th April 1953 at John Brown's Shipyard Clydebank, the Royal Yacht Britannia continued an unbroken tradition of Royal Yachts stretching back 300 years, to the reign of Charles II.

The Visitor Centre
You'll receive a truly warm welcome at Britannia's visitor centre in Ocean terminal before you step on board - here you can view displays and historic photographs that detail Britannia’s fascinating past.

The Royal Picture Gallery
Enjoy some of the wonderful photographs taken of all generations of The Royal Family on Britannia, many of which have never previously been on public display.

The Royal Barge
The Royal barge is the vessel in which the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh would travel ashore when Britannia was anchored in harbours around the world.

The Wheelhouse
The wheelhouse, originally situated on the deck below the bridge, is now reconstructed in the Visitor Centre.

The Living Quarters
The original berths where 12 of Britannia's Petty Officers and Sergeants slept have been reconstructed. So you can experience for yourself the conditions under which they lived.

Starting the Tour
As you leave the Visitor Centre you will receive an audio handset which is used as a guide to tour the five decks of Britannia.

On Board Britannia
The Bridge
You start the tour at the top of the Yacht, standing on the very spot from where Britannia's captains guided her around the globe.

The Admiral's Cabin and Quarters
Visit the spacious and relaxing quarters where the Admiral worked, entertained and often ate during his time on board.

Crew’s Quarters
See where some of the 220 Yachtsmen lived – and learn about the unusual customs on board.

The Dining Room
This is the largest and grandest room on board, where some of the world's most famous and powerful figures have dined with Her Majesty The Queen.

The Queen's Sitting Room
Relaxed and peaceful, each of the Royal Apartments brings back memories of another time.

The Sun Lounge
The Sun Lounge on the verandah deck was a private place for The Royal Family. Strictly off limits - until now.

The Engine Room
Your tour ends with the spectacular Engine Room, still gleaming as it did throughout its active life.

How to Book
Tickets can be purchased from our Visitor Centre on the second floor of Ocean Terminal. There is no need to pre-book your tickets except in August when you should call our information line +44 (0) 131 555 5566 at least 24 hours before you intend to visit.
For Group Bookings of 15 or more please telephone +44 (0) 131 555 8800
By car, follow the signs to Leith (North Edinburgh) and Britannia.

Guide Friday and Lothian Regional Transport both offer a dedicated bus service from Waverley Bridge, just off Princess Street and next to the Railway Station, in the centre of Edinburgh.
Please note that no dogs, except guide dogs, are allowed into the Leith docks area, which includes Britannia and the Visitor Centre
Free car & coach parking.
Disabled Access.

The Lothian bus numbers that come to us are 1,11,22,34 and 35.

Opening Times
Open daily from 10.00am, except during July and August when we open at 9.30am.
Last admission
November to March 3.30pm
April to October 4.30pm
Britannia is open everyday of the year, expect Christmas Day and new Year's Day.

Admission
Prices for 2008 (includes Audio Tour)
Adult £9.75
Senior Citizen (aged 60+) £7.75
Student £7.75
Child (aged 5-17) £5.75
Family (2 adults & up to 3 children) £27.75

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