The launch of the fifth Type 45 destroyer to be built took place, appropriately, on Trafalgar Day at Govan. The fourth of the class to be built there - DARING was launched at BAE Scotstoun - DEFENDER was attended by a plethora of smaller craft including two Defence Police RIBs from faslane, and HMS SMITER, which can be seen heading down river from Princes Dock.
The paddle steamer WAVERLEY also put in an appearance. She had sailed earlier in the day from Plantation Quay across to Stobcross Quay, immediately opposite her usual berth, to embark a large party of official guests including the launching party. Having cruised downriver as far as the mouth of the River cart, she then returned to the former Fairfield Basin to allow them to go ashore for the launch itself. WAVERLEY was seen as she moved astern from the basin into the river - she then berthed alongside Meadowside Quay to view the launch herself. Two Clyde Marine tugs had been assisting her manoeuvre - BATTLER and BEAVER BAY were both in attendance.
2 comments:
Excellent set,caught all the flavour of the launch !!
Great pictures!
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