All smiles as Princess Royal pops in for a visit to Bay

The Princess Royal was all smiles on a fleeting visit to the Bay.

She was in town to visit the Wetwheels Torbay team followed by a reception to talk to local VIP guests at Ottos restaurant overlooking the harbour and Torquay marina.

 The Princess is Patron of the Wetwheels Foundation, a charity founded by disabled yachtsman Geoff Holt that provides barrier-free access to the water for disabled and disadvantaged people.

Wetwheels’ specially adapted boats are fully wheelchair accessible, including ramps to the steering position and adapted controls, allowing participants to actively take part in steering and seamanship.

The Torbay vessel, delivered in 2024, is the newest in the national fleet and plays a key role in the foundation’s mission to provide 12,000 life-changing experiences on the water every year by 2027. 

The Princess Royal’s visit shone a spotlight on the charity’s work and Torbay’s role in offering barrier-free maritime experiences.

Torbay Wetwheels director Michelle Brown welcomed her to the Bay before escorting her to the Wetwheels boat on the marina and then back into Ottos.

The Princess was introduced to VIP guests before thanking the Wetwheels volunteers in the Bay.

Her day in Devon was also due to include attending British Wool’s 75th Anniversary Open Day in South Molton, a visit to Landworks at Dartington Hall, Totnes, and a tour of Luminous Showtech in Exeter.