Pleasure, politics and war: The role of Charles II’s yachts
Charles II was the first English king to own and race yachts. Their interiors were decorated to mimic many aspects of the king's state apartments and they were equipped with cannon - as such they were a symbol of royal authority. However, these yachts were more than a recreational diversion: they were leant to ambassadors and when necessary fought alongside the warships of the Royal Navy.
Continue reading →