Royal Yacht Britannia | Everything You Need to Know

Welcome aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, a floating piece of history that offers a unique glimpse into the life of the British Royal Family. Once the proud vessel of Queen Elizabeth II, this iconic yacht has sailed over a million nautical miles, hosting royalty and world leaders alike. Now permanently docked in Edinburgh, Scotland, Britannia invites you to explore its five decks, from the elegant state rooms to the bustling engine room. Whether you’re a history buff, a royal enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique day out, the Royal Yacht Britannia promises an unforgettable experience.

Location

The Royal Yacht Britannia is located at Ocean Terminal, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6JJ, Scotland. It’s just two miles from Edinburgh’s city center, making it easily accessible. Nearby landmarks include Ocean Terminal shopping center and the historic port of Leith. For precise navigation, use GPS or map apps like Google Maps.

Opening Hours

The opening hours vary by season:

Period	First Admission	Last Admission	Closing Time	Notes
January – March	10:00	15:00	17:00	Last admission on 24 December is 14:30. Closed on 25 December and 1 January.
April – September	09:30	16:00	18:00	On 11-15 August, last admission is 15:00.
October	09:30	15:30	17:30
November – December	10:00	15:00	17:00	Last admission on 24 December is 14:30. Closed on 25 December and 1 January.

For the most current schedule, check the official website.

How to Get There

• By Public Transport: Take Lothian Buses (routes 10, 16, 34, 35) from Edinburgh city center to Ocean Terminal. Alternatively, use the Edinburgh Trams, which run from the city center to Leith, alighting at Ocean Terminal.
• By Car: Free parking is available at Ocean Terminal Car Park, with accessible and parent-child spaces. Follow signs to Leith or North Edinburgh, then brown tourist signs for Britannia. For drivers, parking on level C or E of the multi-storey car park provides direct access to the shopping center.
• By Taxi: Ask to be dropped off at Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre, then follow signs to the Second Floor entrance.
• From Edinburgh Airport: Britannia is approximately 40 minutes’ drive. Taxis cost around £35, depending on traffic.
• Tips: Use apps like Waze for real-time traffic updates or Google Maps for public transport routes.

Best Time to Visit

The Royal Yacht Britannia is open year-round, but visiting on weekdays or early mornings can help avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring outdoor decks, though the indoor exhibits make it a great rainy-day activity. Research suggests quieter visits are possible in autumn or winter, except during the festive season when Leith attracts more visitors. Check the official website for special events, such as exclusive evening receptions, which may affect access.

Tickets and Costs

Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket desk (card/contactless only). Pre-booking is recommended to guarantee admission:

Ticket Type	Price	Notes
Adult	£20.00	Includes free audio guide in 30 languages
Student & Educators (with ID)	£15.00	Available at the ticket desk, cannot be pre-booked
Child (aged 5-17)	£9.50	Includes free audio guide in 30 languages
Child (under 5)	FREE
Family (2 adults and up to 3 children)	£50.00	Includes free audio guide in 30 languages
Armed Forces & M.O.D (with ID)	£10.00	Available at the ticket desk, cannot be pre-booked
Carers	FREE	Available at the ticket desk for those acting in a carer capacity

Combo tickets, such as those including Edinburgh’s hop-on-hop-off bus tours, are available through third-party platforms like The Better Vacation. An Annual Pass allows free return visits for a year.

What to Expect

Step aboard to explore five decks with a free audio guide available in 30 languages. Highlights include the State Apartments, where the Royal Family entertained dignitaries, the Sun Lounge (Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite room), and the immaculate Engine Room, barely changed since 1953. The Verandah Deck offers photo opportunities by the royal bell, the only place displaying Britannia’s name. The Visitor Centre on the Second Floor of Ocean Terminal features a new exhibition on the yacht’s history, dating back to 1660. Expect a 1.5 to 2-hour visit, with facilities like restrooms, the Royal Deck Tearoom, a NAAFI shop for fudge, and a gift shop. Interactive audio guides and children’s versions enhance the experience for all ages.

Safety and Accessibility

The Royal Yacht Britannia is highly accessible, with a central lift providing step-free access to all decks. Accessible parking spaces and parent-child bays are available at Ocean Terminal Car Park. The venue offers large print information, audio descriptions, sensory packs (including ear defenders and fidget toys), and welcomes guide dogs. Staff are available for assistance, and safety measures include standard health protocols. For detailed accessibility information, see the access statement. The attraction is family-friendly, with stroller access and children’s audio guides.

History and Background

Launched on April 16, 1953, by Queen Elizabeth II at John Brown & Co. in Clydebank, Scotland, the Royal Yacht Britannia served the British monarchy for 44 years until its decommissioning on December 11, 1997. As the 83rd royal yacht since 1660, it sailed over one million nautical miles, visiting 600 ports in 135 countries on 968 state visits. It hosted notable figures like Nelson Mandela and Winston Churchill and was a floating home for the Royal Family, with personal touches like family photos still on display. Fun fact: All clocks on board are frozen at 3:01 pm, marking the moment Queen Elizabeth II was piped ashore for the last time. Learn more at the Visitor Centre or official website.

Nearby Attractions

Leith, a vibrant Edinburgh neighborhood, offers several attractions within walking distance:

• Port of Leith Distillery: A modern distillery with tours.
• Scottish Design Exchange: Showcases local art and design.
• Ocean Terminal: Shopping and dining hub.
• Lind & Lime Gin Distillery: Offers gin-tasting experiences.

For a full day out, Edinburgh’s city center (10-15 minutes by tram or bus) features the Scott Monument, Calton Hill, Nelson Monument, and Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Combine visits with a scenic walk along the Water of Leith for a picturesque experience.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking across decks and potential stairs.
• Bring a camera, as photography is allowed, with great opportunities on the Verandah Deck.
• Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the tour, or longer if visiting the Royal Deck Tearoom.
• Check the weather, as outdoor decks may be exposed.
• Pre-book tickets online at Royal Yacht Britannia to avoid queues.
• Download the audio guide in advance or bring headphones for an immersive experience.
• Note that pets (except assistance dogs) are not allowed inside Ocean Terminal or on board.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of the Royal Yacht Britannia?

The opening hours vary by season. For example, from April to September, it’s open from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm, with last admission at 4:00 pm. Check the official website for updates.

How much does it cost to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia?

Tickets are £20.00 for adults, £9.50 for children (5-17), £50.00 for families (2 adults + up to 3 children), with free entry for under-5s and carers.

Is the Royal Yacht Britannia suitable for children?

Yes, it offers children’s audio guides and is stroller-accessible, making it family-friendly.

Are there any discounts available for the Royal Yacht Britannia?

Discounts are available for students (£15.00), educators, armed forces personnel (£10.00), and carers (free), redeemable at the ticket desk with ID.

How long does it take to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia?

Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours, with extra time recommended for the Royal Deck Tearoom.

Is photography allowed at the Royal Yacht Britannia?

Yes, photography is permitted throughout, with excellent photo opportunities on the outer decks.

Are there guided tours available at the Royal Yacht Britannia?

Free audio guides in 30 languages are included, and private behind-the-ropes tours can be booked via the official website.

What’s the best way to get to the Royal Yacht Britannia from the city center?

Take Lothian Buses (routes 10, 16, 34, 35) or Edinburgh Trams to Ocean Terminal, a 15-20 minute journey.

Is the Royal Yacht Britannia wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it’s highly accessible with a central lift and accessible parking at Ocean Terminal.

Are there dining options near the Royal Yacht Britannia?

The Royal Deck Tearoom offers light refreshments, and Ocean Terminal and Leith’s Shore area feature diverse dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants like The Kitchin.