The colossal HMS Prince of Wales is docked at Marina Bay Cruise Centre – a truly unique and rare opportunity you can enjoy with your children!
Photo Credits: British High Commission Singapore
Venue: Marina Bay Cruise Centre
Dates: 23 Jun 2025 onwards (end date TBC)
Admission: Free
A truly magnificent event has unfolded right on our shores, offering an unparalleled opportunity to introduce your little adventurers to the wonders of naval engineering and international diplomacy. On 23 June 2025, the United Kingdom's Carrier Strike Group (CSG), led by the Royal Navy flagship HMS Prince of Wales, made history by berthing at the iconic Marina Bay Cruise Centre.
This isn't just any ship; it's the very first aircraft carrier from any nation to dock in this prime location, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Singapore's iconic skyline. This is probably a one-in-lifetime opportunity to get up-close to an aircraft carrier!
A Symbol of Friendship and Future
Photo Credits: AS1 Amber Mayall RAF
Photo Credits: AS1 Amber Mayall RAF
The arrival of HMS Prince of Wales is more than just a port call; it's a symbol of the enduring and dynamic partnership between the UK and Singapore. British High Commissioner to Singapore, His Excellency Nik Mehta, highlighted this momentous occasion, emphasising the closeness of our nations. Commodore James Blackmore, Commander of the UK's Carrier Strike Group, echoed this sentiment, expressing his excitement to celebrate 60 years of relations between the UK and Singapore and to foster continued cooperation for decades to come.
This multinational Strike Group, including ships from New Zealand, Canada, Spain, and Norway, underscores a shared commitment to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
What to Expect and How to Catch a Glimpse!
Photo Credits: Singapore High Commission
While the immediate berthing ceremony and some onboard activities were by invitation or ballot only (including tours for lucky balloted members of the public and 350 invited guests), the good news for parents is that the sheer size and prominent location of HMS Prince of Wales means you can absolutely still catch a magnificent glimpse of this engineering marvel!
How to See the HMS Prince of Wales:
- From Afar: The aircraft carrier is visible from various vantage points from afar, especially from the CBD and Sentosa facing the Marina Bay Cruise Centre
- Outside Marina Bay Cruise Centre: While access to the cruise centre itself might be restricted to those on cruises, or for specific events, the ship is clearly visible from outside the main perimeter of the Marina Bay Cruise Centre.
- Carpark L3: If you don't mind paying for carpark, you can head up to Level 3 of the Marina Bay Cruise Centre carpark to get a upfront look at the ship (this was our experience on the docking day, and it might be blocked for security reasons after).
This is a rare and exciting opportunity for your family to witness a piece of modern naval history in the making, right here in Singapore. Don't miss out, get your cameras ready and prepare to be amazed!
