King Charles inspects guard of honour before throwing himself into carnival spirit in the Bahamas
King Charles began his first full day of engagements in the Bahamas by recognising the work of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, before a planned welcome featuring a colourful Junkanoo parade. The visit combines ceremonial events with meetings focused on service, conservation and opportunities for young people.
At Coral Harbour, 106 officers and marines formed the Guard of Honour, which the King inspected after receiving a Royal Salute. He was also due to honour four marines killed when HMBS Flamingo was sunk in 1980, visit a disaster-response vessel, view conservation work at Bonefish Pond National Park and meet students and community contributors.
In short
- Charles inspected a 106-member Guard of Honour.
- His Bahamas programme includes a Junkanoo parade.
- The visit also highlights conservation and youth programmes.
Explained simply
The Bahamas is an independent country in the Caribbean, with King Charles as its head of state. The Royal Bahamas Defence Force is the country’s maritime security service, responsible for protecting its waters and helping with emergencies.
Junkanoo is a Bahamian street parade tradition featuring music, dancing and elaborate costumes, especially around Christmas and New Year. The King’s programme also touches on the country’s response to disasters, its coastal environment and the role of young people and community groups.