The Royals who Sail

by Des Ryan on 27 Jun 2008 There are literally hundreds of sailing clubs in the world that have the title 'Royal' in their name – have you ever wondered why? After all, you don't hear of too many 'Royal' Football Clubs..... and why are so many members of Royal Families interested in sailing?

Partly the reason is historical. Many European seafaring nations built their empires and world power by controlling the sea, and developed very strong maritime traditions. It was, therefore, important for rulers of yore to be trained 'before the mast'. In fact, in Britain, Prince William was the first to break with this tradition and announce that he would enter the Royal Army, instead of the Royal Navy.

In the Scandinavian nations, primarily Norway and Denmark, the Vikings sailed the northern seas extensively and were both warriors and traders.

Many of the rulers of ancient countries, from China (who sailed through the North West Passage in prehistory) to Turkey to Greece, took pride in their fleets.

Today, there are always a few royal names appearing in international racing regattas or merely relaxing on their classic yachts.

Think about HM King harald V of Norway (left), a very keen yachtsman. Formerly an Olympian, he is a regular and active participant on his boats famously known as Fram.

Then there's King Constantine of Greece, who has been an enthusiastic competitor in racing sailing events(see right). He even won a gold medal in the 1960 Rome Olympics. He figures today as President of Honour of ISAF (International Sailing Federation), and is present to announce the Sailor of the Year Awards every year.

Prince Eitel Frederick of Prussia is also a yachtie with passion. He has a yacht called Elizabeth, just new in 2005 when he raced it and finished third in the annual regattas of the Imperial Yacht Club in Kiel(left). Emperor William was there watching.

What about Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark?(right) He is another Royal who is a highly skilled sailor. He has participated in the last three Rolex Farr 40 World championships. He was also responsible for bringing the 2007 event to his home town, and is often filmed at the helm of a sailing boat..

Finally, there's His Majesty King Juan Carlos(left), who has been an active sailor for many years, sailing in Bribons – he competed in the Sardinia Rolex Cup just a couple of years ago.

Prince Charles of Britain has been sailing lately, but he chose the £50-million Leander superyacht (left) to sail the Caribbean – Sail-World has taken a vote, and we don't think this counts.

However, we found that HRH Prince Charles crewed on the famed racing boat Siska(left) when she set the fastest time defeating world champion Kioloa, and was first overall at Cowes in the Queen Victoria Cup against 329 other entries.

So next time you get an invitation to go sailing on a classic yacht - or even a competitive one - ask if there are going to be any Royals on board ... you just never know your luck...