Maritime charity column: a new chapter of supporting seafarers opens at Nautilus Mariners' Park

Nautilus director of welfare and care Andrew Jones on his role during the royal opening of Nautilus House, the newest development at Mariners' Park in Wallasey, UK.

MARITIME CHARITY COLUMN

It was a great honour to welcome Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal back to Mariners' Park, as she officially opened Nautilus House – our newest development, delivered by a team led by myself in my role as director of welfare and care at the Nautilus Welfare Fund and by Nautilus International deputy general secretary Olu Tunde. This event marked a proud milestone in Nautilus's 165-year commitment to supporting seafarers.

Nautilus House represents a significant investment in your welfare as seafarers: a modern facility combining our new head office with 27 supported living apartments, offering stunning views of the River Mersey. This development reaffirms our promise to provide dignified, high-quality care for those who dedicate their lives to the sea.

Mariners' Park offers a full spectrum of support – from independent living to 24/7 care, including nursing, dementia services and palliative support. You don't need to be a Nautilus member to live here. We are proud to serve retired and needy seafarers and their dependants aged 55 and over, across all maritime sectors – from the Merchant Navy and Royal Navy to fishing and yachting.

During her visit, I also escorted The Princess Royal on a separate tour of our existing independent living accommodation at the Trinity House Hub, a state-of-the-art residential complex which she also opened in 2014. She saw firsthand the vibrant community spirit that continues to define Mariners' Park. From gym and physiotherapy services to the Merseyside Radio Officers' Association, our residents enjoy a rich and active lifestyle.

I was also proud to present Her Royal Highness to our dedicated estates team, whose hard work on grounds and property maintenance keeps our estate thriving.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to enhancing our care and accommodation services. For those planning retirement, we warmly invite you to visit and see what this remarkable place at Mariners' Park has to offer.

The Maritime Charity Column is a regular feature in the Nautilus Telegraph. Submissions are invited from a range of organisations by the Telegraph editor.