Frequently asked questions

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance (except for visits in August – see below). You can buy your tickets at our ticket desk on the 2nd floor of Ocean Terminal.

If you are visiting in August we do advise you pre-book tickets and this can be done over the phone on 0131 555 5566. Our Booking and Information office is open Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 5.00pm, and also at weekends in August. You must book at least one day in advance of your visit.

If you do not pre-book tickets in August you will still be able to buy tickets on the day of your visit however there may be queues to purchase tickets.

All groups must book in advance.

What should I wear?

Comfortable shoes. The tour covers five decks and there are times when you will be outside walking on the beautiful teak decks and on the quayside. We recommend that you wear flat, comfortable shoes when you follow in the footsteps of the Royal Family and their guests.

Be prepared for the weather! As you will be outside for part of the tour, please dress for the changeable conditions. We recommend bringing a waterproof coat with you and even sun screen for those sunny summer days when you can enjoy some time on the outer decks.

How do I book a group?

Please telephone the Group Sales Office on 0131 555 8800.

Pre-booking is necessary to receive a group discount and also to ensure availability on the date of your choice. The discount applies to groups of 15 or more: click here for more information.

Is Britannia far from the centre of Edinburgh?

Britannia is just two miles from the city centre, and only 10 minutes drive from Princes Street. Lothian Buses run frequent service buses to Ocean Terminal (1,11,22,34,35) from the city centre, or you can take the Majestic Tour Bus (open-top bus) from Waverley Bridge. A taxi costs approximately £8 from Waverley train station.

What are the opening times?

We are open every day except Christmas Day and New Year's Day from 10.00am (July/August from 9.30am).  Last admission is at 4.30pm (April to October) or 3.30pm (November to March).

What are the prices?

Adults: £9.75, Senior (aged 60+) £7.75, Child (aged 5-17) £5.75, Family £27.75 (2 Adults and up to 3 Children). Your audio handset tour is included in the ticket price.

Do you have Gift Vouchers?

Yes, these can be purchased over the phone on 0131 555 5566. They are admission tickets that are valid any day, any time. It is not possible to use Gift Aid with these tickets.

What do you see in the Visitor Centre?

Our Visitor Centre has displays and historic photographs that detail Britannia’s fascinating past. There is also a reconstruction of Britannia’s Wheelhouse and information about life on board for the Royal Family, Officers and Yachtsmen.

Is it a guided tour?

As you progress through the Visitor Centre and are about to board Britannia, you will receive an audio handset, this is used as your guide to tour the five main decks. The audio tour is available in a wide range of languages. The tour is self–led and taken at your own pace.

How many of the items on board are original?

95% of the original items from when Britannia was in royal service are still on board including furniture, artefacts, paintings and photographs. These are kindly on loan to Britannia from the Royal Collection.

What do you see on board?

Highlights of the tour of five decks include the Sun Lounge, the Queen’s bedroom, the State Dining and Drawing rooms which contrast with the working side of the ship, such as the Royal Marines’ Barracks, the Sick Bay and the Engine Room. There is something for everyone; whether you are interested in the Royal Family, the Royal Navy, history, or just having a great day out.

Do you have toilet facilities?

There are excellent toilet facilities in Ocean Terminal which we encourage you to visit before starting your tour of Britannia. There are toilets and baby changing facilities on board Britannia, towards the middle and end of the tour.

How much of Britannia is accessible for wheelchair users?

There is full wheelchair access within the Visitor Centre and on board Britannia. There is a lift alongside Britannia and ramps for easy access to all decks. For safety reasons it is not possible for Shop Mobility wheelchair users to come on board Britannia.

How long does a typical visit to Britannia last?

We recommend you allow 1½ to 2 hours for your visit. In August you may wish to allow up to 2½ hours as this is our busiest month.

Is there a shop?

We have an excellent Gift Shop that you can visit at the end of your tour or access directly through Ocean Terminal. It is next door to our Ticket Desk and Visitor Centre.

Can I take photographs on board?

You are welcome to take photographs on board, but for copyright reasons it is not possible to take close-ups of Royal Collection items. There are some great photo opportunities on the outer decks.

Is car parking and coach parking free?

All visitors to Britannia should use the Ocean Terminal car parks. Parking is free and Level E of the blue car park will bring you out on the same level as the Britannia Visitor Centre.

There is a free coach park outside Ocean Terminal.

Can you hire Britannia for an evening event?

Britannia is available as an exclusive venue for corporate dinners and drinks receptions. For more information please contact the Events team on Tel: 0131 555 8800 or click here for more details.

Is there a café on board?

Britannia does not have a cafe on board but there is a great range of cafés, bars and restaurants in Ocean Terminal and in Leith. You can use your Britannia ticket to get discounts at a number of the cafés and restaurants.

Can you recommend a meeting point if I get separated from my party?

We recommend meeting up with your friends and family at the seating area outside our Gift Shop. All visitors leave Britannia through the Gift Shop which leads into Ocean Terminal. The Gift Shop is next to our Visitor Centre where you will have started your tour.