Tristan flag flies on RRS Sir David Attenborough
Report from Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy
When the UK’s new Royal Research Ship Sir David Attenborough visited London for a VIP event, the flag of Tristan da Cunha was prominently displayed on board. The vessel was on show ahead of its first voyage to the Antarctic, and among the guests on 28th October 2021 was the USA’s Chargé d’Affaires in London, Philip T. Reeker. His photographs, shared on social media, reveal how Tristan’s distinctive colours adorned the special occasion.
The RRS Sir David Attenborough anchored off Greenwich
LEFT: A large Tristan da Cunha flags dwarfs that of the UK British Antarctic Territory alongside
on a deck of the RRS Sir David Attenborough. RIGHT: Saving Face? Sir David Attenborough surrounded by RRS Sir David Attenborugh Officers, crew and visiting dignitaries.
It may be recalled that, in a competition to name the new BAS research vessel, the name ‘Boaty McBoatface’ was seemingly chosen. In what was understood to be a popular rejection, the name Boaty McBoatface now apears only on this AUV, as the vessel itself honours one of Britain’s most distinguished personalities.
It is hoped the RRS Sir David Attenborough is able to call in at Tristan da Cunha on one of its future voyages, although we understand this will not occur on its inaugural 2021-2022 voyage to Antarctica. Meanwhile it is heartening that the Tristan flag flies aboard.
