Following the ceremony, she and Prince William toured the ship and spoke with BAE Systems team members, along with Royal Navy representatives, to discuss the vessel’s features and progress.

Earlier in the week, Kate also made a surprise return to the Buckingham Palace garden parties—the first time she has attended one in two years. On Tuesday afternoon, she joined Prince William at the traditional event, delighting guests with her unexpected appearance.

William, dressed in a morning suit and top hat, hosted the gathering on behalf of his father, King Charles. Kate, who is currently in remission following cancer treatment, had missed earlier events in the season as she focused on her health—a period William had previously described as a “brutal” year for their family.

Her attendance was not announced in advance, as is customary for garden parties. She wore a bright yellow dress by Emilia Wickstead, paired with a hat by Philip Treacy. During the event, the royal couple met guests connected to their various causes and patronages, including Homewards, Action for Children, Ty Hafan, and tenants from the Duchy of Cornwall.

Among those present was the family of Liz Hatton, a 17-year-old aspiring photographer from Harrogate, North Yorkshire, who passed away in November after battling a rare and aggressive cancer known as desmoplastic small round cell tumour.

Liz had been embraced by Kate at Windsor Castle just weeks before her death. She had been invited to photograph Prince William during an investiture—a moment that became especially meaningful to her and her family.