The Princess Royal has become the first royal patron of a maritime charity.

The Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) announced that Her Royal Highness will champion its work to improve the lives of seafarers and fishers.

This is the first time in the charity's 77-year history that the charity has had royal patronage.

Stuart Rivers, CEO of MNWB, said: "We are honoured and privileged to welcome The Princess Royal as our new Patron.

"This is a landmark moment for the charity having a royal Patron for the first time since the Board formed in 1948.

"I’ve been fortunate enough to meet The Princess Royal at maritime functions.

"Her unwavering passion for the maritime sector is so evident, making her a leading expert on maritime subjects."

The Princess Royal is involved with over 300 charities, organisations, and military regiments in the UK and overseas.

She has a long association with the Royal Navy, holding the rank of Admiral as Chief Commandant for Women in the Royal Navy.

She also has special relationships with HMS Talent and HMS Albion and is Commodore-in-Chief for Portsmouth.

The Princess Royal takes over from John Prescott, who served as MNWB’s Patron for nine years before losing his battle with Alzheimer’s in November 2024.

During his time at the Board, Lord Prescott was engaged with the work of the MNWB in its mission to improve the lives of seafarers across the world.

Having served in the Merchant Navy and then as Secretary of State for Transport and Deputy Prime Minister, his achievements in supporting the Merchant Navy are many.

MNWB Chair Capt. Andrew Cassels said: "Lord Prescott achieved many great things for British shipping and was a staunch supporter of the maritime sector and, specifically, the work we do to improve the lives of seafarers.

"He is hugely missed.

"We now welcome The Princess Royal into the role as Patron who we look forward to working with over the many years to come."