Duchess Kate christens “Boaty McBoatface” ship at royal naming ceremony
A British polar research ship was supposed to be given the title Boaty McBoatface after an online competition to name the vessel went viral in 2016.
But it was officially named the RRS Sir David Attenborough on Thursday during a royal ceremony and in attendance was the iconic naturalist himself as well as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
As they stood high up on the 129 metre ship, the prominent figures waved to spectators as they took a tour of the boat.
The Duchess of Cambridge who is also the ship’s sponsor, formally christened the boat by pressing a button to release a bottle of champagne that smashed against the hull.
Prince William also had a few words, as he said the group was there to celebrate a “true British marvel.”
“One that is strong, sturdy, and incredibly well engineered that deepens our understanding of the impact our behaviour has on the world around us, and arms us with the facts to do something about it, an icon capable of feats not seen before and potentially never seen again. And no – I’m not talking about you David. Those words wouldn’t do you and your lifetime’s work justice!”
“Through this state-of-the-art new ship, the British Antarctic Survey will help to expand global knowledge of the polar oceans and the impact of climate change on this crucial region,” he said in his speech.
The heir to the throne then made a cheeky reference to the boat’s almost-name.
“There is no person more fitting for this beacon of scientific research to be named after than you, David,” he said.
“You have shown us how awe-inspiring the natural world is, and also how fragile and endangered it is. And you have inspired us all to do as much as we possibly can to protect it.
“It is my immense privilege and relief to welcome Sir David Attenborough, rather than Boaty McBoatface.”
Scroll through the gallery above to see the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the royal naming ceremony.