Britannia and other J-class yachts at the turning mark

Britannia was designed by George L. Watson, and built at Hendersons on the Clyde for King Edward VII in 1893. She underwent numerous re-fits, eventually being modified to the American Universal Rule to allow her to race against the J-Class boats, which were becoming so popular. The 1935 sailing season was to be one of the best for the J-Boat class at club regattas in the United Kingdom, with 8 yachts entered to compete, including the American J-Boat Yankee, and the American schooner Westward. This was Britannia's forty-second season of active racing, and for King George Vs Jubilee year she had been completely refurbished in an attempt to make her competitive with the newer J-Boats. She had her copper bottom removed, a new metal mast and boom, a double headsail rig, rod rigging and a centerboard added.
Although it was to be a short season for Britannia, out of a possible 36 races, she made starts in 21 races. Sadly, this was to be her last season, as the improvements to her aging hull had little effect and after the season ended, the ailing King George V passed away on January 20, 1936. In accordance with his Majesty's wishes, Britannia was towed out to sea off of St. Catherine's point on the Isle of Wight and scuttled. Between 1893 and 1935 Britannia competed in 569 races, and won 231 first place trophies among other prizes.