The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, Scotland, has been singled out as the ‘Best of the Best’ visitor attraction in the World, Europe and the UK, by the world’s largest travel guidance platform, Tripadvisor.

Royal Yacht Britannia © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

The Royal Yacht Britannia is Tripadvisor’s No.1 Attraction in the World 2026/27 and it is the first UK attraction to receive the accolade. Reviewers praised the Royal Yacht for its excellent staff and fascinating living history, experiencing all five decks, including the private Royal Quarters, State Apartments, and working areas of the ship, as well as a sailing exhibition.

The Royal Yacht Britannia was home to Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family for over 40 years, sailing over a million nautical miles around the world. Now a visitor attraction and evening events venue, the Royal Yacht has been voted Tripadvisor’s No. 1 Attraction in the UK three times, and has been permanently berthed in Leith, the waterfront area of Edinburgh in Scotland, for 28 years. Leith is a vibrant district with a maritime heritage, creative business hub and exciting food scene, giving the area an identity far beyond its size.

Royal Yacht Britannia Grand Staircase © The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust

The 2026 Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Things To Do Awards are determined based on the quality and quantity of traveller reviews and ratings posted on Tripadvisor over the 12-month period between February 1, 2025, through January 31, 2026, as well as an additional editorial process.

Franck Bruyère, Chief Executive, The Royal Yacht Britannia, said: "We are incredibly proud of The Royal Yacht Britannia’s success and wish to thank our visitors for taking the time to share their gift of feedback. Being number one in the world is a tremendous achievement and a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional visitor experience. We remain committed to delivering memorable visits that are considered great value for time and raising the bar for what world-class attractions can offer.”

Royal Yacht Britannia State Dining Room © The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust

The Britannia team continually strive to make a visit to the Royal Yacht an exceptional experience with a highly accessible tour. Inclusivity is a priority, with the tour commentary in 42 versions including translated languages, junior audio guides in five languages, British Sign Language / American Sign Language tablet and Braille.

The Royal Yacht Britannia is cared for by The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust who also care for three of the former Royal Sailing Yachts; Coweslip, Bluebottle and Bloodhound, with Bloodhound owned by the Trust. The Royal Yacht also owns the luxury floating hotel, Fingal, Tripadvisor’s No. 1 ‘One of a Kind’ hotel in the UK (No. 4 in the world). A former Northern Lighthouse Board vessel, Fingal’s 23 cabins, Ballroom and the 2 AA Rosette Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar are inspired by its rich seafaring history.

Royal Yacht Britannia Bridge © The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust

In August 2026, for the first time in nearly 30 years, The Royal Yacht Britannia will return to Cowes on the Isle of Wight, off the coast of southern England, with a one-month pop-up exhibition, ‘Sailing Through Royal History’, which celebrates the Royal Yacht’s enduring connection with Cowes, its community and the close Royal links to legendary local yacht designer Uffa Fox.

Cowes is globally recognised as the capital of international yacht racing. It is most famous for hosting Cowes Week, the world's oldest regular regatta, which has been drawing sailors and spectators to the Isle of Wight since 1826.

Royal Yacht Britannia Lifebuoy © The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust

Janet Redler, Managing Director of Janet Redler Travel, said: “The Royal Yacht Britannia is a must-see attraction for visitors to Edinburgh which shines a light on the UK’s Royal Family as well as offering a glimpse into luxury living onboard ship in the 20th century. In addition, The Royal Yacht’s sister-ship Fingal is a very special place to stay.”

If you or your group would like to enjoy a visit to The Royal Yacht Britannia on a tailor-made tour of Scotland or the United Kingdom, please do contact our friendly team today.