Princess Royal announces names of new ships

The Princess Royal has announced the names of two new ships for Trinity House.

Princess Anne, in her capacity as Master of the Corporation of Trinity House, revealed the names during a reception marking the 200th anniversary of Cowes Week on board the THV Patricia.

The first ship will be named after Anne: THV the Princess Royal, and the second ship will be named after her beloved father, Prince Philip: THV Prince Philip. 

The vessels will replace the THV Patricia and THV Galatea, which are close to the end of their operational life.

The design and build contract was awarded for the ships on 22 July 2026.

Rear Admiral Iain Lower, the Deputy Master of Trinity House, said this about the new ships:

“Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal has been the Master of Trinity House since succeeding her father His Royal Highness The late Duke of Edinburgh in 2011. The late Duke of Edinburgh was the longest ever serving Master and from 1969 oversaw much change and transformation with the Corporation; he is fondly remembered and missed greatly.

“Across the centuries, there has been a variety of vessel names, from Argus and Antelope to Vigilant, Winston Churchill and Zadora. By naming the first vessel THV Princess Royal we take this opportunity to recognise HRH The Princess Royal’s enthusiasm for—and continued dedication and commitment to—Trinity House as our Master. In honour of the late Duke of Edinburgh’s long and distinguished association with Trinity House, we name the second of the class THV Prince Philip.

“It is a great honour for us to be able to do so.”

Trinity House is a maritime safety and welfare organisation. It aims to assist in the safety of all mariners, working as a General Lighthouse Authority and maritime charity. It was founded in 1514 by Royal Charter.

Princess Anne succeeded Prince Philip as Master of Trinity House in 2011.