A day out aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia

Last updated: Friday, 8 March 2024

Looking for the perfect day out to celebrate the special someone in your life?

The Royal Yacht Britannia by Andrew Kavanagh

Spoil them with a day out in Leith to visit two stunning ships, The Queen’s former floating palace, The Royal Yacht Britannia and luxury floating hotel Fingal .

Stepping aboard Britannia there are five decks to explore aboard this iconic ship. Visit the State Apartments to see where the Royal Family relaxed whilst on their annual family holiday and hear fascinating stories of life on board with a complimentary audio guide. Imagine being a member of the Royal Family in the Sun Lounge, The Queen’s favourite room on board, where Her Majesty would take afternoon tea. Follow in the footsteps of Royalty in the State Dining Room where world leaders and celebrities, including Nelson Mandela and Sir Winston Churchill, were entertained.

Visit the Royal Deck Tea Room to keep those late morning hunger pangs at bay with a slice of freshly baked cake or a scone topped with jam and clotted cream, looking out to the stunning sea views across to Fife and the Firth of Forth.

With an accessible lift tower and ramps to each of the decks, all ages and abilities can tour Britannia. Head down into the Crew’s Quarters to see where 220 Royal Yachtsmen worked and relaxed. Snap a family photo whilst trying on the sailors’ uniforms in the Crew’s Mess and stop by the NAAFI to sample the delicious fudge, made on board. It really is a must!

Look into the gleaming Engine Room and in celebration of VisitScotland’s Year of Coast and Waters, learn about the Royal Family’s love of all things nautical in the Royal Sailing Exhibition. Planning to bring the little ones? They’ll love to spot the cuddy corgis hiding in the Cuddly Corgi Treasure Hunt whilst listening to their own children’s audio guide.

Britannia’s ticket even includes an Annual Pass which provides 12 months free admission.

Just a five-minute walk from The Royal Yacht Britannia, Scotland’s first luxury floating hotel, Fingal, awaits. Go beyond their wildest imagination with a five-course Afternoon Tea in The Lighthouse Bar. Sit under the shimmering ceiling and allow the sensational views of Leith Docks to entertain you, like an ever-changing image.

Gift an afternoon of escapism, away from the stresses of everyday life, with mouth-watering sandwiches and savoury delights followed by perfectly baked scones and sweet delicacies, almost too exquisite to eat. Add some sparkle to the occasion with a glass of Champagne or let Fingal’s knowledgeable crew tempt you with drinks from the Signature Cocktail Menu.

For the ultimate in luxury, treat your loved one to a stay in one of the twenty-three stunning cabins. A space full of softness with elegant curves and contours and nautical details, each cabin features the highest levels of craftmanship.

To get to The Royal Yacht Britannia and Fingal, take the train to Edinburgh Waverley and hop on the Number 22 bus to Ocean Terminal.

This is a guest blog from The Royal Yacht Britannia.

Plan your journey to Britannia now
Book your train tickets