The Cambridges recently returned from a two-week holiday on the Caribbean island Mustique where they enjoyed a relaxed vacation with Michael, Carole, Pippa and James Middleton. Kate looked tanned and rested as she arrived for today's engagement.
Since her return, Kate has been diving back into her royal role, carrying out two private engagements. On Tuesday, the Duchess made a private visit to Bethlem and Maudsley Hospital School in Beckenham, Kent where she met children suffering from mental health problems. It was said to be a lovely treat for children who met Kate with the Duchess even strumming out some chords on a ukulele. Yesterday HRH attended a reception as patron of The Royal Foundation to discuss its support of palliative care hospices for children.
Today's visit combines Kate's passion for sailing with official duties. Last October the Duchess became patron of the 1851 Trust, the charitable arm of the UK team's bid to bring the America's Cup back to Britain. The organisation plans to work with under 25's to inspire and encourage a new generation to get involved.
When the patronage was announced the Palace released the following statement from Kate:
'I am delighted to be Royal Patron of The 1851 Trust. I feel very fortunate to have enjoyed sailing from a young age and I know it is a great way of providing young people with the opportunity to develop skills and confidence.
It is a hugely exciting time for sailing as the British challenger bids to bring the America's Cup back to Britain. I am looking forward to being part of this journey and I hope that through the 1851 Trust we can engage and inspire a new generation into sailing along the way.'
Kate attended a breakfast reception for the trust last June. Below we see her with Sir Ben Ainslie.
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| Kensington Palace Twitter Feed |
Kate viewed progress on the new home of the trust and viewed an art project by the local community.
Kate viewed a gorgeous mural painted by local schoolchildren.
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| The 1851 Trust Twitter Feed |
'No Man's Land Fort' was painted for the trust and has been featured in the very popular Dr. Who!
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| The 1851 Trust Twitter Feed |
Kate put the finishing touches to the mural and managed to avoid splashing paint on her ivory coat. She revealed she was painting with Prince George yesterday and said he loves it.
More from Richard Palmer's story:
The Duchess painted in five crewmen, including Sir Ben, on a picture of a racing yacht, concentrating on depicting their bottoms hanging out over the side of the boat.
"Make it accurate," Sir Ben told her, as she painted in his bottom.
Art teacher James Waterfield from Park Community School in Leigh Park, Havant, stood alongside the Duchess as she did her painting.
"I was so worried about getting paint on her fantastic white coat," he said.
"She told me she was painting yesterday with baby George and she should have brought him down because he loves doing all of this."
A closer look at Kate's contribution.
The final result.
The Duchess received a posy of flowers.
Afterwards, the Duchess attended a reception at the Spinnaker Tower.
Kate had a bird's eye view of the new base from the Tower.
Kate met Portsmouth community members involved with the Ben Ainslie Racing project and to view exhibits destined for the Visitor Centre for the Trust at the team’s Portsmouth headquarters, opening in July 2015. The Duchess was delighted to receive a miniature Ben Ainslie kit for Prince George.
Kate gave the Ben Ainslie power grinder a go.
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| Ben Ainslie Racing Twitter Feed |
Kate looks up the virtual rig 'Rita' on a 3D simulator.
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| Kensington Palace Twitter Feed |
Following Kate's visit today, the iconic tourist attraction will open to the general public. Soaring proudly above Portsmouth harbour, the Spinnaker Tower is a member of the World Federation of Great Towers, commanding the attention of all who encounter it. The unmissable 170m tall viewing tower offers visitors spectacular 350° panoramic views and a different perspective on one of the most fascinating seascapes on earth.
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| Kensington Palace Twitter Feed |
The Duchess wrapped up in the Max Mara Studio Villar Belted Wool Coat. The classic double breasted coat is 100% wool and includes a stylish belt. The ivory coloured garment is another fabulous addition to Kate's collection of coats. It's also a very chic yet comfortable choice for her at this point in her pregnancy. The Villar is currently reduced from £580 to £345 at House of Fraser.
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| House of Fraser |
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| House of Fraser |
Interestingly, Princess Eugenie wore the same coat on Christmas Day.
In keeping with the nautical theme for today's visit, Kate wore a dress with a distinctive sailboat print underneath. With thanks to @livelovelaughr for identifying it as the Somerset by Alice Temperley for John Lewis 'Boats' Dress. The red and black dress from the designers diffusion line retails for £99 at John Lewis.
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| Somerset by Alice Temperley |
More from the product description:
'A feminine shift dress crafted with short elbow sleeves, this opulent design features a beautiful figure-skimming fit, a flattering round neckline and a subtly tapered bodice for added elegant appeal. The dress is finished with a delicate all-over print that boasts little red sailboats with white sails for a dainty aesthetic.'
Kate carried her navy suede L.K. Bennett Frome Clutch.
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| L.K. Bennett |
Kate wore her Jimmy Choo Georgia Pumps. The navy suede shoes feature a round toe and a chunky heel. The mid-height heel makes them a very wearable choice. They're available in black and blush for £395 on the Jimmy Choo website.
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| Jimmy Choo |
And accessorised with her sapphire and diamond earrings.
I thought it a stellar look for the Duchess today. The coat suited her perfectly and the sailboat print dress and navy shoes and accessories were a lovely nod to the nature of the visit. One would imagine quite a bit of thought went into this ensemble.
Do you like the look?
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