Former Royal Yacht launch begins new chapter on Bath’s River Avon

A historic boat once used by Queen Elizabeth II has arrived in Bath for a new role carrying visitors along the River Avon.

The Jolly Brit on the river | Photo © Bath River Cruises

Bath River Cruises has introduced The Jolly Brit, a restored wooden launch built in 1953 as one of the official “Jolly Boats” carried aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia.

The vessel was used to transport members of the Royal Family between Britannia and the shore during official overseas visits.

Among its most notable journeys was in 1961, when it carried Queen Elizabeth II along the River Gambia during her visit to the country, allowing her to view crocodiles and other wildlife from the water.

More than 60 years later, The Jolly Brit is preparing to begin a new chapter offering river trips in Bath.

James Seith, co-founder of Bath River Cruises, said: “We wanted to bring something genuinely special to Bath.

“There are plenty of sightseeing boats, but very few can claim to have carried Queen Elizabeth II. The Jolly Brit is a living piece of British history, and we’re incredibly proud that her next chapter will be written here on the River Avon.

“The Royal Yacht Britannia remains one of the UK’s most popular attractions because people love getting close to that kind of history. Now they can experience a piece of it here in Bath, aboard a boat the late Queen actually sailed on.”

The vessel has been restored by traditional boatbuilders while retaining features from its former royal service, including a navy hull, varnished mahogany and polished brass fittings.

Rather than being placed in a museum, the boat will continue carrying passengers, offering visitors the chance to experience Bath from the water while travelling aboard a piece of maritime history.