Royal Watch News

Duchess of Cornwall to pay royal visit to Queen Victoria ship

Dec 7, 2012, 12:01 GMT

The Duchess of Cornwall

Britain's Duchess of Cornwall will visit Cunard's Queen Victoria ship.

Prince Charles' wife Camilla is set to mark the luxury cruise liner's fifth anniversary by taking a grand tour of the splendid vessel on December 13 in Southampton, England.

Peter Shanks, Cunard cruise line's president, said in a statement: 'We were honoured that Her Royal Highness named this fine ship and are delighted that she continues to display such an interest both in the ship and its crew. The duchess will always be warmly welcomed on board.'

Camilla - who officially named the ship five years ago - will enjoy lunch on board, before cutting a cake to mark the occasion and singing the visitor's book for the third time, USA Today reports.

The 65-year-old royal is also due to meet 12 Prince's Trust apprentices who have worked for various Cunard companies, in order to honour the charity set up by her husband in 1976 to help disadvantaged youths learn valuable employable skills.

One of the highlights of her visit will be the unveiling of a portrait of herself painted by royal artist Richard Stone, which will be a permanent fixture on board the vessel.

The ship's crew is expected to line the three tiers of the liner's Grand Lobby and passengers will also be able to pay their respects to the duchess as she climbs aboard.