Guernsey to welcome second royal visit

Sophie, The Duchess of Edinburgh last visited Guernsey in 2022

The Duchess of Edinburgh is to visit Guernsey in August, one month after King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited the island.

The second royal visit will take place on 12 August, to celebrate the Association of Sail Training Organisations’ Guernsey – Poole Small Ships Race.

It will be Her Royal Highness’ first visit to the Bailiwick since becoming Duchess in 2023.

Her last visit to Guernsey came with her husband as the Earl and Countess of Wessex in 2022, to mark the 77th anniversary of its liberation from occupation.

'Exceptionally fortunate'

The race runs from 13 to 15 August, from Guernsey to Poole and involves young people across 12 boats, which will begin arriving in St Peter Port on 10 August.

Her Royal Highness, who is Royal Patron of the Association, will meet with around 140 of those who are taking part in the race.

Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, who is married to Prince Edward, the King's youngest brother will also take to the water aboard of one of the boats.

Ms Kerry McMillan, Chief Executive of the Association, commented: "This race was inspired by the RNLI's 200th Anniversary with the aim of raising awareness of the impact on, and value to, young people of sail training and adventure afloat generally."

The Lieutenant-Governor of Guernsey, Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell, commented: "We are exceptionally fortunate to be hosting this short visit by Her Royal Highness.

"We hope that Her Royal Highness has a very enjoyable day here, both afloat and ashore."

'Enjoys coming here'

Maj Marco Ciotti, chief of staff to the lieutenant governor, said the visit would be a good event for young sailors.

"Her Royal Highness will be meeting the young people, and if the weather is good, going for a sail with them," he said.

"She is familiar with the islands and I know she does enjoy coming here very much."