Princess Royal names lighthouse support ship

Marking the historic occasion, The Princess Royal broke a bottle of new make whisky spirit from the Port of Leith Distillery against POLE STAR’s hull, formally naming the vessel in front of invited guests and representatives from across the maritime sector. In keeping with long-standing tradition, Leith has been designated as the ship’s Port of Registry.

The new POLE STAR is the fifth vessel to carry the name and replaces her predecessor, which had been in service for many years. The project to renew the fleet has been six years in the making, following an extensive consultation process involving NLB crews and technical specialists.

“Six years ago, we set sail on our journey to replace the fourth POLE STAR, which after many years of loyal service was rapidly approaching the end of her economic life,” said Mike Bullock, chief executive of the Northern Lighthouse Board. “Following a rigorous process to set clear requirements, we developed ambitious plans for the new POLE STAR.”

Bullock highlighted significant improvements in seakeeping, buoy servicing safety, towing and firefighting capabilities, alongside higher standards of crew accommodation and major environmental enhancements.

Hugh Shaw, chair of the Board of Commissioners, described the vessel’s entry into service as a major milestone. “The acceptance into service of POLE STAR is a massive team achievement and ensures the Northern Lighthouse Board can continue to protect mariners and our precious marine environment in Scottish and Manx waters into the 2050s,” he said.

The new POLE STAR will support NLB’s vital work maintaining lighthouses, buoys and marine aids to navigation.

In 2024 The Princess Royal opened the 25th edition of Seawork, held in Southampton, UK.