King Charles III has embarked on his inaugural visit to Bermuda, marking a significant milestone as his first journey to a British overseas territory in his capacity as monarch. Arriving in the capital, Hamilton, on Thursday evening following a four-day state visit to the United States, the King was unaccompanied by Queen Camilla.
The first day of his Bermudian sojourn was a blend of reflection and celebration. His itinerary included a poignant exploration of artefacts related to the transatlantic slave trade, a boat trip with the coastguard, and a cake-cutting ceremony at a local aquarium. This visit offered a welcome change of pace for the King after what was deemed one of the most significant diplomatic engagements of his reign in the United States.
During his time in Bermuda, the King engaged with members of the National Gombey Dance Troupe, a vibrant symbol of the island's cultural heritage. He had the opportunity to witness a captivating Gombey performance, a tradition that faced restrictions during the era of slavery, with performances permitted only on Christmas and New Year's Day. Irwin Trott, a spokesperson for the Gombey dance troops, shared with the King that the dance represents a rich tapestry of cultures—African, Caribbean, West Indian, Native American, and British.
Trott emphasised the resilience of the Bermudian identity, stating, “Even though they were stripped of their identity, names were taken, their language was taken, deep in their heart they maintained their culture, and so it still flourished throughout the Caribbean.”
While this marks the King's first official visit to Bermuda as sovereign, he previously visited the island in 1970 for the opening of its parliament, where he toured the territory in an open-top car. On Friday, his welcome included an inspection of the Royal Bermuda Regiment, followed by a warm reception from the public in the former capital of St George. The atmosphere was festive, with a military procession and a marching band, culminating in a 21-gun salute to honour the monarch.
The King, dressed in a beige suit adorned with military medals, took the time to greet the enthusiastic crowd, which included individuals of all ages waving Union Jacks and capturing photographs. Notably, a four-year-old boy named Theo, dressed in a guardsman outfit, caught the King's eye. Theo's mother recounted that the outfit was purchased two years prior at Buckingham Palace, and her son has proudly worn it ever since.
The King also visited the Living Classroom on Trunk Island, an educational initiative designed to teach young people about the local ecosystem. There, he observed the release of three land hermit crabs, which had been relocated from a development site that posed a threat to their habitat. Additionally, staff from the Bermuda Zoological Society performed a health check on a Bermuda Longtail, also known as a white-tailed tropic bird, as part of their conservation efforts.
The aquarium, which is celebrating its centenary, hosted the King for a cake-cutting ceremony where he participated in the festivities. The event showcased the rich biodiversity of Bermuda, with the King taking a keen interest in the local wildlife and conservation initiatives.
In addition to land-based activities, the King took to the water with Bermuda's coastguard, learning about their vital work in combating illegal fishing and smuggling. He also had the pleasure of meeting Michael Frith, a Bermuda-born designer known for creating many beloved Muppet characters, and his wife, Kathryn Mullen.
Throughout his visit, King Charles III has received a warm welcome, despite concerns regarding the current state of UK-US relations. During his time in the United States, he addressed these tensions in a speech before Congress, which was met with a standing ovation. He underscored the "indispensable" partnership between the UK and the US, asserting the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges.
A gesture of goodwill from former US President Donald Trump, who lifted tariffs on Scottish whisky "in honour of the King and Queen," further highlighted the significance of the King's visit in fostering international relations.
King Charles' visit to Bermuda, spanning two days, will conclude with his return to the UK, leaving behind a legacy of cultural engagement, reflection on historical injustices, and a renewed commitment to strengthening ties between the UK and its overseas territories. As he departs, the King carries with him not only the memories of a vibrant celebration of Bermudian culture but also a deeper understanding of the island's complex history and the enduring spirit of its people.
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