Wednesday 18 October – As Storm ‘Babet’ passed nearby, Watchkeepers from NCI Nell’s Point (Barry Island) were delighted to be hosted for a visit aboard the Trinity House Vessel Patricia at the invitation of Captain/First Officer James Charles.

‘Patricia’ was in dock at Swansea where she was undergoing some maintenance and installation of equipment. The team from NCI Nell’s Point were escorted on a tour of the ship by the Captain who started the visit by inviting the group to see his cabin, then on up to the Bridge where the work of both the Patricia and her sister ship the Galatea was explained.  Our volunteers then visited the very spacious guest suites plus lounge areas and dining areas. She is no longer taking paying passengers, but they do have a suite set aside for Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal as Master of Trinity House, having taken over that role from her Father in 2011.

NCI Volunteer Nick Rodgers said: “We gained good insight into vessel operations and visited the Crew Deck and spoke with several crew, gaining a glimpse of crew accommodation and recreational areas. Joints were creaking as we climbed and descended stairways and enjoyed many photo opportunities.
Just as we left the warmth of the ship we were presented with a Trinity House Pennant. Our thanks must go to the Captain and crew of the THV Patricia for this rare opportunity to visit – whenever we log her progress in the Bristol Channel, we will now have a much greater insight into her work and a more personal connection with her crew.”