Naval vessels in ‘breathtaking setting’ of Carrickfergus Harbour

That’s the view of the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, as he prepares to welcome the visit by three P2000 patrol boats to the waters surrounding Carrickfergus Castle as part of the Royal Navy’s summer deployment.

Seven Archer Class P2000 patrol boats will sail around the coastline of Scotland and Northern Ireland this month, stopping off in a select number of harbours, of which Carrickfergus is one.

At 20 metres in length, the vessels are some of the smallest in the Royal Navy Fleet, meaning the town is the ideal location for berthing.

Cllr Johnston said: “The planned arrival of the Royal Navy to Carrickfergus Harbour on Wednesday 22 July is a prestigious honour for the Borough of Mid and East Antrim.

“I have no doubt people will be very excited to come and see the P2000 patrol boats from the shoreline, in the breathtaking setting of the town’s famous Norman castle, and I would remind everyone to adhere to the social distancing and public health guidelines when doing so.”

The vessels, according to Cllr Johnston, will arrive around 1.00pm and depart at 9pm.

Captain Chris Smith, Naval Regional Commander for Scotland and Northern Ireland said: “Usually we would be hosting visits from local groups and organisations while alongside but, with the current situation, this is unfortunately not possible.

“We hope to engage with local organisations across social media and using new technologies, and if people spot them in their area do give them a wave.”

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