The wide range of attractions on show at Portsmouth Navy Days has been continuing to pull in the crowds – with interest in action both past and present.
Family naval history came high on the agenda for many people who have a sailor or two in their family tree – with visitors flocking to the Royal Navy historical branch in their droves.
“I think this is a wonderful chance for people to come and try and find out something about their family’s naval history,” said Jenny Wraight, Admiralty Librarian. “We’ve had a lot of advance publicity so people have been coming in to see us specifically with all their documents so we have been able to advise them on what they should do next.”
One of the Royal Navy’s brand new Type 45 destroyers HMS Daring has also had its fair share of interest, with sailors on hand to explain all about each department’s job while on board ship.
Executive Officer, Commander Paul Nash, said: “We’re having a fantastic day with so many people on board looking at our ship and talking to the sailors. I think this type of event is really important and gives the public some idea of what life is like for a sailor at sea on this most modern of warships.”
Flight crews have also had the chance to show off a Merlin helicopter which is stationed on the jetty outside HMS Dauntless for the whole of the event.
“There has been so much interest in the Merlin, I think this is a great opportunity for people to get up close to it and really have a good look,” said Warrant Officer Aircrewman Steve Elsby, 820 Sqn HMS Culdrose.
I“There’s been all sorts of people coming over from model makers who want to create a realistic Merlin to ex-Forces personnel and just people who are interested in our role in the Navy. Being right outside HMS Dauntless is a great vantage point as well so we are always busy with people wanting a look or a chat.”
Event Opening times:
Open: 1000 - Close: 1800
Last Admission: 1600
Tickets:
Tickets can be bought in advance  on-line throughout the event and are also available to buy on the gate on the day.
Explore the ships and meet the crews of the modern Royal Navy including the new Type 45 Destroyers, HMS Daring and HMS Dauntless – the largest and most powerful air defence destroyers ever operated by the Royal Navy and the first time both ships will be open to the public together.
Also on display will be two Type 23 Frigates, the mainstay ships of the modern surface fleet and the aviation training and casualty receiving ship, RFA Argus. Then see if you have the skills to join the senior service on challenging displays, simulators and climbing wall in Action Stations and see Carrier Strike, an interactive exhibition detailing the aircraft carriers of the future.
Watch in awe amazing military displays of the Black Cat helicopter team and marvel at the strength, courage and teamwork of the Field Gun Crews of HMNB Sultan and HMNB Portsmouth.
Over 800 years of naval history will be brought to life at every turn with historical re-enactment displays, a cast of hundreds and the National Museum of the Royal Navy, Mary Rose Museum and HMS Warrior 1860.
A fantastic, fun-filled day out for all the family is guaranteed!
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