Durham University Names Rowing Boat After Grand Duke of Luxembourg Guillaume V

Durham University has paid a special tribute to one of its most distinguished alumni by naming a new University College Boat Club (UCBC) vessel after Guillaume V, the newly ascended Grand Duke of Luxembourg. The christening honours both his time as a Social Sciences student at Durham and his recent rise to the Luxembourgish throne in October 2025.

The naming ceremony reflects the strong bond between the University and its global alumni community. University officials highlighted that Guillaume V has remained a proud advocate for the institution, and the gesture celebrates the enduring connection international graduates maintain with Durham long after their studies end.

The new rowing boat joins UCBC’s historic fleet on the River Wear, where the club — one of England’s oldest rowing institutions — trains and competes. The boat is expected to be a symbolic source of motivation for current student-athletes, representing global achievement and the values of ambition, leadership, and resilience.

UCBC members expressed pride in honouring the Grand Duke and said they hope the boat will inspire future generations of rowers. The tribute also comes as Durham continues strengthening ties with alumni across the world, especially those contributing significantly to public life.

Read more: https://www.durham.ac.uk/news-events/latest-news/2025/11/grand-duke-of-luxembourg-rowing-boat/

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