A Royal Visit to San Diego: Queen Elizabeth’s 1983 Tour
The United States has a rich history of royal visits, and one such significant event occurred in 1983 when Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family visited San Diego. This visit was particularly memorable for its security measures and the unique experiences it provided to both locals and visitors.
Queen Elizabeth’s Yacht Visit
In 1983, Queen Elizabeth II's yacht, HMS Britannia, made a memorable stop in San Diego during a royal voyage. The visit was formal and filled with ceremonial events, including the presence of important officials such as Governor Deukmajian and the then-U.S. Secretary of State, Ed Meese. Prince Philip, the Queen's husband, was a significant part of the royal entourage accompanying Her Majesty.
The Queen wore a striking navy blue suit with white accents and a matching hat, which complemented her black patent leather handbag and shoes. Her attire was a blend of elegance and traditional symbolism, setting the tone for the entire visit.
The Queen's Arrival by the Royal Yacht Britannia
Queen Elizabeth II arrived in San Diego by the Royal Yacht Britannia. The visit was marked by a motorcade procession along I-5 northbound, starting from Laurel Street. Despite the pouring rain, the motorcade managed to proceed without any major interruptions, thanks to the intense security measures in place. CHP motorcycles were seen escorting the motorcade, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.
The security was described as the most stringent seen for any president, cryptically implying that Queen Elizabeth's visit was treated with the highest level of national security. This underscores the significance and the respect accorded to her presence in the United States.
Special Mayoral Tour and Dancing Memories
After the arrival and welcoming events, the Queen and her party embarked on a special tour on board the Royal Yacht Britannia. This tour included not only a visit to the staff quarters but also an interesting encounter with the San Diego Soccers team, adding a local flavor to the royal visit.
One of the most memorable moments for a local resident, the author of the recollections, was when a young group of girls and some young men from the yacht visited a social venue in San Diego. They were midshipmen, and a dance meeting was arranged and followed up with an impromptu invitation to dance. The author fondly recalls this event, which included a special ship-to-shore phone call, and the extraordinary night they had at Harbor House/Seaport Village.
Exclusive Royal View and the Queen’s Living Quarters
During the tour, there was an opportunity to see the royal purple ropes that tie up the ship, the incredible unpolished wooden decks, and the Queen’s living quarters. Although the guests couldn’t enter the living quarters, the experience was still unforgettable. The author describes the evening as a mix of excitement, joy, and a tremendous sense of privilege that they had to witness such a significant event and interact with the royal guests.
The article concludes with a personal anecdote about the author’s husband’s efforts to arrange a dance for the midshipmen and the camaraderie that ensued, emphasizing the lasting impression such a visit leaves on those fortunate enough to experience it.
This visit was not just a moment in history but a blend of formal ceremonies and memorable social events, making it a highlight of San Diego's royal visit history.