Princess Royal celebrates 90 years of Royal Navy Sailing Association in historic visit

The Princess Royal, a prominent figure in the British royal family, made a significant visit to the Royal Navy Sailing Association (RNSA) in Gosport, England, on March 13 of this year. The occasion was primarily to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the institution, which has been fostering the sport of sailing among Royal Navy members since its establishment in 1935. Recently appointed as Admiral and Patron of the RNSA, Her Royal Highness used the event to spotlight the tireless efforts of the organization’s 5,000-strong community. The visit not only reinforced the historical ties between the monarchy and the Navy but also underscored the importance of sailing as a tool for personal and collective development among British military personnel. Held in the coastal town of Gosport, the event drew attention to the RNSA’s legacy and its ongoing contributions to naval life.

Welcomed warmly by association representatives, including retired Commodore Philip Warwick, the RNSA’s chief executive, and offshore sailor Katrina Daniels, one of the organization’s trustees, the Princess Royal’s presence symbolized a moment of recognition for an entity that has promoted health, well-being, and teamwork among sailors for nearly a century. The timing of her visit aligned perfectly with this milestone, celebrating nine decades of dedication to sport and community-building within the naval sphere. Her role as Admiral marks a continuation of a royal tradition, reflecting the monarchy’s longstanding support for the RNSA’s mission.

The Princess Royal’s stop in Gosport also featured the presentation of a special honor, the Life Flag Officer’s Burgee, to Wayne Shirley, the RNSA’s manager, acknowledging his years of exemplary service. This gesture highlighted the significance of individuals like Shirley, who have been instrumental in sustaining the association’s success, now thriving as a hub for accessible and inclusive sailing opportunities across all skill levels within the Navy.

A royal tradition in the Navy

The Princess Royal’s connection to the Royal Navy Sailing Association carries deep historical weight. By stepping into the role of Admiral, she follows in the footsteps of her father, Prince Philip, and her grandfather, King George VI, both of whom previously served as admirals of the organization. Founded in 1935 with the mission of encouraging sailing among Royal Navy personnel, the RNSA has enjoyed consistent royal backing over the decades. This month’s visit reaffirms that bond, opening a new chapter for an institution now bolstered by Her Royal Highness as its latest patron.

Her appointment to these roles is no coincidence. Known for her involvement with over 65 military organizations across the United Kingdom and Canada, the Princess Royal already holds titles such as Admiral and Commander-in-Chief of the Women’s Royal Navy Service in Britain, as well as Commodore-in-Chief of the Royal Canadian Navy. Her experience and passion for military-related causes make her an ideal figure to guide the RNSA into its next phase, particularly as the association aims to broaden its reach among service members and their families.

This commitment is mirrored in the RNSA’s structure, operating as a registered charity since 2020. With around 5,000 members, the association relies on subscriptions and volunteer efforts to fund its activities, which range from organizing regattas to providing training courses in sailing, dinghy sailing, and windsurfing. The Princess Royal’s visit served as a platform to spotlight these initiatives and draw further attention to the sport’s benefits for its participants.

Honoring Wayne Shirley stands out

One of the highlights of the Princess Royal’s visit was the presentation of the Life Flag Officer’s Burgee to Wayne Shirley, manager of the Royal Navy Sailing Association. The honor, bestowed by Her Royal Highness, recognized Shirley’s longstanding support for the organization, emphasizing his crucial role in maintaining and expanding its activities. During the event, Shirley expressed his passion for the sport and pride in being part of an association that, in its 90th year, continues to thrive and deliver meaningful outcomes for the naval community.

Shirley, who has spent years encouraging sailing participation among Navy members, saw his efforts celebrated before an audience of trustees, supporters, and key RNSA figures. The award ceremony was not just a personal milestone but also an opportunity to underscore the value of volunteerism and individual dedication in an organization heavily reliant on its membership base. The Princess Royal’s involvement in this symbolic act elevated the honor’s prestige and highlighted Shirley’s lasting legacy.

The interaction between the Princess Royal and attendees during the ceremony was marked by a celebratory and appreciative atmosphere. Beyond Shirley, other association members had the chance to share their experiences and recent achievements, giving Her Royal Highness a broader perspective on the RNSA’s impact on the lives of military personnel and their families.

90 years of history and achievements

The Royal Navy Sailing Association reached its 90th anniversary in 2025, a journey that began in 1935 with the goal of making sailing accessible to Royal Navy members. Over the years, it has grown into a leading force in nautical activities, encompassing yachting, dinghy sailing, and windsurfing. With a membership of 5,000, the RNSA hosts a robust calendar of social events and competitions, including international regattas and training programs aimed at enhancing both personal and military skills.

Throughout its history, the association has notched impressive accomplishments. Recently, it was named a finalist in the “Active” category of the 2025 RYA Awards, a recognition of its exceptional contributions to sailing. Additionally, Royal Navy sailing team members competed in events like the Tri-Nation Regatta in New Zealand, achieving notable results, while former officer Keri Harris secured second place in the 2024-25 Globe 5.80 Transat, showcasing the competitive edge of RNSA-affiliated sailors.

The organization also maintains strategic partnerships, such as with the Andrew Simpson Foundation, which supports free programs for young people from Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Royal Fleet Auxiliary families. These efforts align with the RNSA’s three core goals: making sailing fun and accessible, building competitive teams, and supporting military families through nautical activities.

RNSA’s 2025 impact timeline

The year 2025 has been a landmark one for the Royal Navy Sailing Association, with a series of events and achievements reinforcing its relevance. The Princess Royal’s visit was just one highlight in a packed schedule designed to celebrate the organization’s 90th anniversary. Here are some key moments from this year:

• January: The RNSA earned a spot as one of three finalists in the “Active” category of the RYA Awards, highlighting its influence in the sport.
• February: Royal Navy sailing team members competed in the Tri-Nation Regatta in New Zealand, delivering strong performances.
• March: The Princess Royal’s visit to Gosport officially marked the 90th anniversary celebrations.
• Summer: Programs like Youth Crew will offer free sailing weeks for children of military families during school holidays.

This timeline reflects the RNSA’s dedication to sustaining its activities throughout the year, promoting sailing and strengthening ties with the naval community.

Royal support boosts the future

The Princess Royal’s appointment as Admiral and Patron of the RNSA has injected fresh momentum into the organization on its 90th anniversary. During the visit, retired Commodore Philip Warwick, the association’s chief executive, voiced his excitement about Her Royal Highness’s backing. He noted that her endorsement provides the drive needed to expand the RNSA’s charitable work and further engage its members in initiatives focused on well-being and personal growth.

Her presence also spotlighted recent RNSA projects, such as the acquisition of the new offshore yacht “Sovereign Sail Navy,” funded by entities like the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity. Launched in April 2024, this vessel has already taken part in regattas and serves as a platform for training sessions and sailing opportunities for military personnel of all experience levels.

With the Princess Royal’s support, the RNSA aims to deepen its partnerships and grow programs like Youth Crew, which has provided free nautical experiences for military family children since its inception. Her influence is expected to inspire greater participation and financial backing for the association.

Sailing’s benefits for the Navy

Promoted by the Royal Navy Sailing Association for nearly a century, sailing extends far beyond a mere sport. It is regarded as a powerful means to enhance physical and mental health among military personnel while fostering skills like teamwork, resilience, and communication. The RNSA views these qualities as vital not only in a nautical context but also in overall military effectiveness.

Among the benefits offered are:

• Health and well-being: Outdoor physical activity helps reduce stress and improve quality of life.
• Competitive development: Royal Navy sailing teams compete in national and international events, nurturing a winning spirit.
• Inclusion: Programs like Youth Crew ensure children from military families gain free access to sailing, fostering a sense of belonging.

These aspects were emphasized during the Princess Royal’s visit, where she heard firsthand accounts from military members and families who have benefited from the RNSA’s initiatives.

Engaging the naval community

While in Gosport, the Princess Royal took time to connect with Royal Navy Sailing Association members. She met with trustees, volunteers, and supporters, listening to stories from service members who have found sailing a way to overcome personal and professional challenges. The event also saw the attendance of the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, representing the King, underscoring its official significance.

This exchange of experiences was among the day’s most meaningful moments, offering Her Royal Highness a deeper understanding of how the RNSA shapes the lives of its 5,000 members. From seasoned competitors to beginners, all expressed pride in the association and enthusiasm for its future under its new patron.

The visit concluded on an optimistic note, with the Princess Royal affirming her commitment to supporting the RNSA’s mission. Her time in Gosport celebrated the organization’s past while laying the groundwork for an even brighter future in promoting sailing within the Royal Navy.