On 1st June 1815 the Royal Yacht Squadron was founded by 42 gentlemen interested in using sailing boats for recreation. These original members decided to meet in London and in Cowes twice a year. Membership was restricted to those who owned a vessel not under 10 tons. Today this is interpreted as any gentleman or lady, “actively interested in yachting”.
On 1st June 2015 the Royal Yacht Squadron is to hold a meeting in the building in St James’s Street London that is at the same location as their original meeting in 1815 and following on from that, celebrations will be focused on Cowes.
On Friday 5th June 2015 starting at 1400 the Duke of Edinburgh, as Admiral of the Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS), will be conducting a Review of the yachts belonging to members of the RYS who are commemorating their bicentenary. The Duke will be joined by other members of the British Royal Family and overseas Royal guests including HRH The Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Earl and Countess of Wessex and HRH Prince Michael of Kent, HM King Harald of Norway, HSH Prince Albert of Monaco, TM King Constantine II of Greece and Queen Anne-Marie, HM King Juan Carlos of Spain and HRH Prince Henrik of Denmark.
This Fleet Review is a private event and part of a varied programme of celebrations by the RYS both on and off the water taking place during 2015. In excess of 180 private sailing and motor boats will be moored in the Solent at the mouth of the River Medina from noon on the 5th June. Also on Friday there will be a Church Service at Trinity Church and Beating Retreat ceremony on Cowes Parade at 19:15. This will be conducted by the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Collingwood with the salute being taken by the Duke of Edinburgh.
INFORMATION FOR THE PUBLIC
Although these events are primarily for the guests and members of the Royal Yacht Squadron, we are aware that large numbers of the public may wish to get a glimpse of royalty both British and from overseas, enjoy the music of the Royal Marines Band, watch the fleet review or simply enjoy being part of the overall celebrations.
Viewing – There will be viewing areas along the shore including the Parade and the Green which are ideally suited for the public although space will be limited on the Parade. Please look out for security officials and Marshals who will guide you to the right areas.
Parking and access restrictions – The Police have suspended parking from 21:00 on Thursday 4th June 2015 and complete closure for vehicles on the Parade from midday on Friday 5th June 2015. Pedestrian access has been maintained throughout with the exception of the designated area for the Royal Yacht Squadron members and their guests.
There will be event security Marshals, visible in their marked high-viz waistcoats ready to help members of the public.
Car Parking – The Friends of Northwood House will be providing temporary car parking for the public, press and guests.
Residents on the Parade have been notified of parking restrictions and details of the event by letter from the RYS. Car Park owners have contacted residents within the vicinity, who have parking permits, advising them that they will need to use alternative parking and the RYS are providing free parking at Northwood Park.