Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal has officially opened Nautilus House, a new residential complex for retired seafarers and headquarters of Nautilus International, during a visit to Mariners’ Park in Wallasey on Friday 11 April 2025.
The state-of-the-art facility represents a multi-million-pound investment in the maritime community, combining Nautilus International’s new 210sqm head office with 27 supported living apartments spread across the ground, first and second floors, offering residents commanding views of the River Mersey and Liverpool’s iconic waterfront.
Princess Anne, who has a longstanding connection with maritime affairs as a patron of several maritime charities, toured the facilities and met residents and staff during her visit. The Princess Royal previously opened the Trinity House Hub at the same site in 2014, demonstrating her continued support for the maritime community.
During the ceremony, Nautilus International conferred Honorary Membership upon The Princess Royal, recognising her unwavering dedication to maritime causes throughout her public life. The award was unanimously approved by the Nautilus Council.
Nautilus International General Secretary Mark Dickinson delivered a welcoming speech at the opening ceremony where he highighted the historical significance of the development:
“This new building represents not just our history, but our future. It stands as a testament to the importance of the maritime industry and our continued dedication to those who serve it. From this vantage point overlooking the waters that have defined so many of our members’ lives, we will continue our vital work.”
Construction on Nautilus House began on 17 July 2023 by John Turner Construction Group, with occupation commencing in November 2024. The investment in Mariners’ Park won Nautilus Regional Deal of the Year in the 2022 Mersey Maritime Industry Awards, recognising the union as best in class for investing in jobs and services in the greater Merseyside area.
The Nautilus Welfare Fund, which operates Mariners’ Park, has been providing for retired seafarers and their dependents for over 160 years. The development continues this tradition, offering accommodation to maritime professionals who have served in the Merchant Navy across all sectors, including maritime pilots and crew on large yachts, as well as those who have served in the Royal Navy or on deep sea fishing trawlers.
During her visit, The Princess Royal toured the Trinity House Hub facilities, including the gym and physiotherapy room, and met members of the Merseyside Radio Officers’ Association. She also visited one of the new apartments to hear first-hand from residents about their experiences.
