'Exceptional' Royal Navy sailor stops HMS Prince of Wales from crashing into ferry at high speeds
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His quick-thinking saved the 65,000 tonne warship and her ship’s company from a serious crash
A Royal Navy officer has been honoured for his calm judgement and decisive actions in preventing a potentially catastrophic collision involving HMS Prince of Wales.
Lieutenant David Hardiman has been awarded the prestigious Lady Swaythling Trophy for his efforts in avoiding the crash in the Tyrrhenian Sea. In the early hours of November 19, 2025, Lt Hardiman was Officer of the Watch during the final stages of a demanding seven-month deployment.
HMS Prince of Wales had been in charge of the UK Carrier Strike Group on Operation Highmast, involving high-profile exercises and diplomatic engagements in the Indo-Pacific - returning home to Portsmouth on November 30, 2025. Lt Hardiman was in charge of the safe navigation of the 65,000 tonne carrier and more than 1,600 personnel embarked.
Despite benign conditions where the seas were slight and visibility was good, the maritime environment was complex. The ship was preparing to embark Italian F-35 aircraft and was operating as part of a formation of military vessels not transmitting on the Automatic Identification System.
At around 2.30am, Lt Hardiman detected a radar contact 15 nautical miles away, which was later identified as the passenger ferry GNV Sirio. The ship was initially appearing to pass at a safe distance, but then unexpectedly altered course towards the carrier and closed her down rapidly at high speed.
Recognising the danger, Lt Hardiman ordered the ship to turn to starboard to increase separation and called the Navigator to the bridge. As the risk escalated, he ordered astern power to reduce speed and prepared the ship for a possible collision.
The ferry crossed ahead of HMS Prince of Wales just 400 yards away, with Lt Hardiman’s quick-thinking leading to a serious collision being avoided. His outstanding seamanship was recognised by the charity Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society at its annual Skill and Gallantry Awards.
Captain Justin Osmond RN, the organisation’s chief executive, said: “Lieutenant Hardiman demonstrated exceptional composure, judgement and professionalism at a moment of significant danger. His prompt and decisive actions safeguarded HMS Prince of Wales, her ship’s company and the passengers and crew aboard the approaching ferry. This was outstanding seamanship under pressure, and he is a very worthy recipient of the Lady Swaythling Trophy.”
The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society offers support to those across the UK who are suffering hardship during or after a life at sea. The charity supports seafarers and their dependants, helping to make a positive difference to their lives. The charity continues to provide help to thousands of individuals each year by offering financial and practical support to those in need.