A Special Visit to HMS CATTISTOCK in Poole
This half term, a group of Cattistock families enjoyed an unforgettable afternoon when they were invited aboard the Royal Navy warship HMS Cattistock, which was moored in Poole.
The visit was particularly meaningful because the ship is named after our very own village of Cattistock. As a result, the captain and crew maintain a strong and valued connection with the village and its residents. When HMS Cattistock happened to be docked in Poole this half term, the captain kindly extended an invitation to local families and children to come and explore life on board an active warship.
Exploring Life at Sea
HMS Cattistock is one of the Royal Navy’s Hunt-class mine countermeasures vessel (https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/equipment/ships/hunt-class) agile and highly specialised ships designed for mine hunting and coastal patrol duties. Despite their compact size, these vessels travel the world with a full crew and play a vital role in safeguarding maritime security.
During the visit, families were given a fascinating tour of the ship. We stepped inside the operational room, filled with high-tech sonar systems and navigation equipment, where the crew monitor the seas and guide the ship safely through its missions.
We were also shown where the crew sleep in their surprisingly small bunk beds, do their laundry and where they cook dinner. It was eye-opening to learn how sailors live and work together for extended periods while deployed around the world.
Hands-On Experiences
One of the many highlights of the day was meeting the specialist diving team. The divers explained how they descend to the seabed to locate and safely dispose of enemy mines — a job that certainly captured everyone’s imagination (and prompted a few “Eeeek!” moments!).
We were shown some remarkable scuba diving equipment, including one full set valued at over £40,000. The precision and technology involved in underwater mine clearance was impressive to see up close.
Families also got to sit in the captains seat on the Bridge and imagine what it’s like to be in charge of such a vessel at sea.
The crew also demonstrated how they tackle onboard fires and explained the safety procedures that keep everyone protected at sea and a lot of us enjoyed firing the water hose far out to sea whilst stood on the deck.
In a moment that thrilled the children in particular, they were even allowed to handle some of the ship’s guns (strictly without ammunition!) and explore much of the equipment under careful supervision.
A Day to Remember
What made the visit so special was how welcoming and generous the crew were with their time. The children were encouraged to ask questions, handle equipment, wear uniforms and fully immerse themselves in the experience. It was an inspiring opportunity to learn about teamwork, responsibility, and the important role the Royal Navy plays around the world.
We are incredibly grateful to the captain and crew of HMS Cattistock for maintaining such a strong bond with our village and for giving local families such a memorable and educational day out.
It was, without doubt, an experience that will be talked about by our Cattistock children for a long time to come.
May 2024, and a visit by members of the Cattistock community, on the spacial day that HMS CATTISTOCK received the Freedom of the Borough of Poole.
Last Updated on 4th March 2026