More about the Duchess of Kingston Royal Yacht

In the late 18th century, the Royal Yacht was a symbol of wealth and power for the British monarchy. In 1778, a new Royal Yacht was commissioned for the Duchess of Kingston, a prominent figure in British high society. This yacht, also known as the HMY (Her Majesty’s Yacht) Royal Caroline, was a luxurious vessel that reflected the opulence and extravagance of the time.

The Duchess of Kingston, Elizabeth Chudleigh, was a controversial figure in British society. She was known for her lavish parties and extravagant lifestyle, and her relationship with King George III’s younger brother, the Duke of Cumberland, caused quite a scandal. As a result, the King himself commissioned the construction of a new Royal Yacht for the Duchess, perhaps as a way to appease her and maintain her loyalty to the monarchy.

The 1778 Duchess of Kingston Royal Yacht was designed by renowned shipbuilder John Williams and was built at the Woolwich Dockyard. It was a stunning vessel, measuring 106 feet in length and capable of reaching speeds of up to 10 knots. The yacht had three masts and was adorned with intricate carvings and decorations, including the Duchess’s coat of arms.

The interior of the yacht was even more lavish than its exterior. It boasted six cabins, including a grand state room for the Duchess herself. The state room was decorated with silk draperies, gold trimmings, and luxurious furnishings, making it fit for a royal. The other cabins were equally luxurious, with silk-lined walls and plush furnishings.

The Duchess of Kingston’s Royal Yacht was not just a means of transportation, but also a place for entertainment and leisure. It had a spacious dining room where the Duchess could host her famous parties and entertain her guests. The yacht also had a music room and a library, showcasing the Duchess’s love for the arts and literature.

The yacht was also equipped with the latest technology of the time. It had a state-of-the-art kitchen, a wine cellar, and even a private bathroom for the Duchess, a luxury that was unheard of on most ships at the time. The Duchess also had a personal staff of 26 people to cater to her every need during her voyages.

The 1778 Duchess of Kingston Royal Yacht was not just a symbol of luxury and extravagance, but it also served a practical purpose. The Duchess used the yacht to travel to the continent, often to attend grand events and visit her properties. It also served as a means for the Duchess to maintain her status and influence in British society.

Unfortunately, the Duchess’s reign as the owner of the Royal Yacht was short-lived. In 1786, she was accused of bigamy and had to flee the country to avoid prosecution. The yacht was seized by the government and eventually sold off. However, its legacy lived on, and it is still remembered as one of the most opulent and extravagant Royal Yachts of its time, a true representation of the lavish lifestyle of the British aristocracy.