In a significant moment for the British monarchy and the Royal Navy, the Prince and Princess of Wales are preparing to travel to Scotland next week for a major ceremonial event.
Kensington Palace has confirmed that Prince William and Princess Catherine will visit the BAE Systems shipyard in Scotstoun on Thursday, May 22nd, to attend the naming ceremony of HMS Glasgow — a powerful new addition to the Royal Navy fleet.
This visit holds special meaning for Princess Catherine, who was appointed sponsor of HMS Glasgow in June 2021.
On Thursday, the Princess of Wales will take part in the time-honored naming ceremony — which includes releasing a bottle of whiskey to be broken against the hull of the ship. This Scottish twist on the traditional champagne ritual perfectly reflects the vessel’s proud Glaswegian heritage.
During their visit, Prince William and Princess Catherine will board the ship to meet with senior representatives from BAE Systems as well as key members of the Royal Navy.
Looking back, Catherine’s connection with maritime traditions dates to February 2011 — when she, then Miss Catherine Middleton, joined Prince William at Triorder Bay Lifeboat Station in Anglesey, North Wales.
There, they attended the naming ceremony for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s new Atlantic 85 lifeboat, named Heraford Endeavour.
This event marked their first official public appearance as an engaged couple — drawing significant attention as it introduced Catherine to the world as a future member of the royal family.
At the time, Catherine and William lived in a secluded farmhouse on the island, where William served as a search and rescue pilot for the Royal Air Force at RAF Valley.
Despite chilly, windy conditions, over 2,000 spectators gathered to catch a glimpse of the couple — particularly Catherine, stepping into the royal spotlight for the very first time.
Catherine’s role was central to the ceremony. She performed the traditional act of pouring champagne over the bow of the lifeboat, officially naming it Heraford Endeavour.
Prince William, standing proudly by her side, applauded her actions — creating a heartwarming moment that was captured by media worldwide.
For the occasion, Catherine’s outfit was a masterclass in royal fashion — balancing elegance with practicality to suit the outdoor nautical setting.
Her Shetland herringbone coat, a piece she had owned for years, showcased her sustainable approach to fashion — a trait that has since become a hallmark of her style.
Her bespoke fascinator, with military-inspired details, paid homage to William’s RAF service and the ceremonial nature of the event.
Suede boots and layered coats ensured she remained warm and comfortable, while the overall look exuded the elegance befitting her new royal role.
Since then, Catherine has taken part in other maritime christenings — including the naming of the cruise ship Royal Princess in Southampton on June 13th, 2013, where she smashed a bottle of champagne against the ship’s hull.
Now, in May 2025, Catherine prepares to name HMS Glasgow, a Type 26 frigate, in Scotstoun, Glasgow, Scotland — where she will release a bottle of whiskey to christen the ship, continuing this proud maritime tradition.
