You could own a boat fit for a prince if you get bidding when lot three comes up at the 79MM Bonhams sale. This 1956 Albatross MkIII Super Sports Runabout was the late Prince Philip’s water-faring toy from the mid-1950s to the mid-1980s.
It came into the prince’s ownership when, upon returning his for a service, the Albatross company suggested he swap it out for their new MkIII model. The boat can most famously be seen in a photograph featuring Philip and a young Prince Charles, taken in 1957. It’s this image that Charles used in his letter of thanks to all who sent condolences for the loss of his father in 2021.
The Albatross had pride of place on the Royal Yacht Britannia in its earlier years, before being moved to the Balmoral Estate. It’s believed the vessel was used by Princess Diana when there, though it was decommissioned in 1987. It’s in this condition it remains, good but in need of restoration and recommissioning, coming complete with its original Ford 1000E engine.
Its price in 1956 would have been around £550. A lot of money then of course but at the Members’ Meeting presented by Audrain Motorsport, it’s expected to fetch between £20,000 and £40,000.
Keyword: Prince Philip’s powerboat up for sale at 79MM