From engine room to flight deck: HMS Tamar puts festive spin on Christmas classic

The crew of HMS Tamar have shared a Christmas message from the Indo Pacific, releasing their own version of The 12 Days of Christmas recorded across the ship.

Each line of the carol is delivered by different crew members as the video moves through working and living spaces on board, from the galley and canteen to the upper deck and lower compartments.

One verse is delivered from a workshop space, framed by a sign reading "Danger Explosives".

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A chance to give thanks

Introducing the performance, the ship's captain, Commander Tom Lindsay, said it was a chance to thank those supporting the crew from home.

"As we get closer to Christmas, a less serious opportunity to say thank you very much to all of our families, friends and loved ones back home and all of our colleagues back in the UK who support us and the work that we do out here in the Indo-Pacific," he said.

"Thank you for everything that you do in supporting us and keeping us out here on task, delivering for the Royal Navy. Very merry Christmas from all of us here. Back to you at home and wishing you a very Happy New Year for 2026."

The message drew a response from HMS Collingwood, the Royal Navy’s warfare training centre in Hampshire, which prepares sailors and officers for service across the fleet.

Praising the ship’s company, the base wrote: "Brilliant effort from the ship’s company of HMS Tamar. A reminder that professionalism, humour and team spirit travel well, wherever you are deployed."

The post ended with a personal note to the crew: "Warm festive wishes from all of us to you. Stay safe and keep flying the flag in the Indo Pacific. See you soon Shipmates!"

HMS Tamar has been deployed to the Indo Pacific since 2021, where she conducts maritime security patrols as part of the Royal Navy’s long-term presence in the region.