Yachtsman proposes new Royal Yacht

Replacing Britannia, which was decommissioned in 1997 has called forth enthusiasm, pledges and disapproval at every level of government and across the public spectrum.

But, as yachtsman and retired advertising entrepreneur Ian Maiden points out, a new Royal Yacht from the public purse is currently not an option, even though the vessel will be used as a Commonwealth flagship.

Britannia was itself described by HRH Queen Elizabeth II as “a vessel which should wear the Royal Standard in days of peace and which, in the event of a war should serve the cause of humanity as a hospital ship”. This new vessel would tour the world in support of Commonwealth trade and enterprise, rather than be a holiday hideaway for British royals.

Mr Maiden has launched a website to illustrate the concept and to encourage industrial giants and individuals to pledge their financial support to the project. “I am now inviting someone to pick up the baton and run with it and carry the project forward,” said Mr Maiden.

The new 127m long ship is conventionally styled, with something of the feel of Britannia, from the drawing board of the late internationally acclaimed yacht designer Jon Bannenberg. Additional work was done by consultants BCTQ of Southampton. She would be crewed by 80 Commonwealth members.

The new website is at commonwealthflagship.com