The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were in Birkenhead today to christen a new polar research ship the RSS Sir David Attenborough. Fun fact: the public was given the chance to vote on the ship’s name and they chose “Boaty McBoatface,” which is magnificent, but unfortunately vetoed by the government. That particular moniker was instead bequeathed on a small submarine housed on the ship.
Kate, as the ship’s sponsor, was responsible for smashing a bottle of champagne against its hull, while William delivered a few remarks beforehand:
“As last week’s climate protests the world over and yesterday’s report on our oceans and frozen regions demonstrated, there has never been a more important moment for this ship to get to work, and there is no person more fitting for this beacon of scientific research to be named after than you, David.
“You have shown us how awe-inspiring the natural world is, and also how fragile and endangered it is, and you have inspired us all to do as much as we possibly can to protect it. It is my immense privilege and relief to welcome Sir David Attenborough, rather than Boaty McBoatface, to speak.”
It’s good to see that everyone still has a sense of humor 🙂
The ship, which cost around £200 million to build, will serve as a floating research fleet for scientists to understand more about ocean and weather patterns. The ship was commissioned by the Natural Environment Research Council, built by shipbuilding company Cammell Laird, and will be operated by the British Antarctic Survey.
On the fashion front, Kate recycled a blue Alexander McQueen coat that she’s worn three times previously. The coat made its debut in April 2014 when the Cambridges were visiting New Zealand. She wore it again two months later in France, and a third time in February 2016.
I’ve never been a big fan of this coat, so today isn’t a particular style win for me, but I do appreciate Kate recycling after there was so much furor over the Duchess of Sussex doing so in Cape Town(!)
As of right now, we’re due to see Kate again next Wednesday when she and William carry out an engagement at The Aga Khan centre ahead of their upcoming visit to Pakistan. It’s hard to believe, but we’re less than three weeks out from another royal tour! In the meantime, I’ll be back tomorrow to cover the Duke of Sussex’s engagements in Angola and I’m keeping an eye out for any more information on Princess Beatrice’s engagement.
Kate looks adorable and so happy. She’s the epitome of a well-bred, gracious woman.
“Adorable” is actually the exact word I thought of when I saw these photos! It’s always sweet to see her and William out and about together.