Your tour today begins with a panorama of the city. See the Georgian architecture of the New Town, Princes Street and drive down parts of the famous medieval Royal Mile with the imposing Edinburgh Castle at one end and down to the 17th century Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other. The Palace was the home of Mary Queen of Scots from 1561 to 1568 and was occupied by Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745. The scene of many a great historical drama including notorious murders, spectacular funerals, major fires and power-hungry personalities, the Palace is now HM The Queen’s official residence in Scotland. Drive up to “Arthur’s Seat” or Calton Hill for some spectacular views over the city.

The Royal Yacht Britannia is one of the world's most famous ships. Launched in 1953, the Royal Yacht proudly served Queen and country for forty-four years. During that time Britannia carried The Queen and the Royal Family on 968 official voyages, from the most remote regions of the South Seas to the deepest divides of Antarctica. Today, permanently moored in Leith since her decommissioning in 1997, she provides a fascinating and unique behind-the-scenes view of the Royal family and Britannia’s role as a floating palace. The Queen describes the Yacht as the one place where she could truly relax. See the gleaming engine room, the Duke of Edinburgh’s and The Queen’s bedrooms, the crew quarters and more during this fascinating visit. Later today, return to your own ship.