Well wishers and family members are gathering at Old Portsmouth as well as in Gosport in anticipation of the aircraft carrier’s return to the city, with HMS Prince of Wales due to pass the outer spit buoy in the Solent at around 12.30pm where will begin a 17-gun salute to mark her return home.
The carrier will then head into Portsmouth Harbour, passing around the Round Tower 30 to 45 minutes later.
1. HMS Prince of Wales returns
HMS Prince of Wales returned home to Portsmouth on Sunday, November 30, 2025, after being deployed to the Indo-Pacific since April. She has been in charge of the UK Carrier Strike Group and headed up various exercises in Japan, Australia, India and elsewhere. It's an emotional moment for sailors, as they they re-join their families in time for Christmas. | Sarah Standing (301125-7603)
2. HMS Prince of Wales returns
HMS Prince of Wales sailing past Spice Island en-route to HMNB Portsmouth. | Alison Treacher
3. Pictured is: (middle) Leading Hand Joseph Mellor was the first sailor to step ashore from HMS Prince of Wales. He was greeted by mum Karen (fifth from left) and the rest of his family.
Pictured is: (middle) Leading Hand Joseph Mellor was the first sailor to step ashore from HMS Prince of Wales. He was greeted by mum Karen (fifth from left) and the rest of his family. | Sarah Standing (301125-3347)
4. HMS Prince of Wales returns
Pictured is: (l-r) Julie O'Donnell and Joanna Slater from North Yorkshire, waiting for Commander David Tinsley. | Sarah Standing (301125-7665)