Pathfinders’ members visiting the helicopter pad of the HMS Iron Duke, which was anchored at the Jackson Point Esso sea berth, off South Sound, Grand Cayman, earlier this month. Pictured with a crew member of the ship are (L-R) Kristen McLean, Annakay Miller, Merle Watkins and Jesel Turner. Photo by Lennon Christian (GIS)

During a recent visit to the Cayman Islands, the British naval ship HMS Iron Duke made an environmental first and also invited various groups of residents to tour the vessel.

The environmental “first” for Cayman happened quietly last week, as the HMS Iron Duke anchored at the Cayman Islands’ only sea berth, instead of anchoring in the harbour or staying offshore under its own power.

The HMS Iron Duke anchored at the Jackson Point Esso sea berth, off South Sound, which is customarily used for oil tankers.

In addition to avoiding potential coral damage caused by the ship’s anchors, the location also removed the ship from the area used by visiting cruise ships and tender vessels.

Crew members and guests were transported to and from the ship on tender vessels and Esso tugboats.

Local officials report that this anchorage worked so well that they will continue to use it depending on conditions such as availability and weather.

While berthed at Jackson Point, the HMS Iron Duke played host to four uniformed youth groups.

Members of the Scouts, Girls’ Brigade, Cadet Corps and Pathfinders, and their respective group leaders, were treated to an in-depth tour of one of the most advanced ships in the Royal Navy.
They covered the ship from bridge to kitchen, gaining knowledge of its armaments, design and capabilities.

The HMS Iron Duke’s primary roles in the region are providing reassurance and support in emergencies such as hurricanes, and combating narcotics trafficking.

Last year the vessel, with Prince William aboard, collaborated with the US Coast Guard to seize almost a ton of cocaine.

Amidst the schedule of group tours, courtesy visits, security meetings and shore leave, officers and crew of the HMS Iron Duke also held the customary reception for local dignitaries during their visit.
Commanding Officer Commander Andrew Stacey hosted the event, which included the traditional sunset flag ceremony.

Guests included HE the Governor Stuart Jack; his wife, Mariko; and their son, Andrew; as well as Deputy Chief Secretary Franz Manderson; Commissioner of Police David Baines and other local officials.

During last week’s visit officers also met with government officials about disaster relief arrangements.

The crew then took part in two exercises off Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac, one of which was executed alongside members of the Cayman Islands Marine Unit and the Jamaica Defence Force.

HMS Iron Duke is one of the most advanced ships in the Royal Navy, carrying an array of weapons and sensors. In addition to war fighting, the ship is equipped to conduct tasks that include disaster relief work, drug interdiction and surveillance operations.