When the Royal Deck is available, the number of guests at receptions will increase to 380 and staff will cater for 176 diners.

A Pipe Major greets guests as they board, a privilege previously reserved for members of the Royal Family and their guests.

After a tour of the Royal Apartments, champagne and canapés are served in the State Drawing Room and, in the State Dining Room, the mahogany table is lit by silver candelabra and set with fine china, cutlery and menu cards, all bearing Britannia’s royal crest.  

All food is freshly prepared by executive chef Michael Soeder, who has worked in five-star hotels such as The Ritz in London. 

By opening up the Royal Deck to corporate events, additional revenue will be generated, which will allow the Trust to remain self-funding.

The extra room will also allow evening entertainment, with possibilities for jazz and swing bands or ceilidhs. 

The Trust’s chief executive, Bob Downie, said: “This is a major development for Britannia and the opportunities it presents are endless.  

“It is important that this project embraces Britannia’s past in order to preserve a future for others to enjoy, and a lot of care and attention has therefore gone into planning this refurbishment project. 

“We look forward to many spectacular events being held on our Royal Deck.”

Costs for the refurbishment of the famous vessel have yet to be finalised, but a spokesman for the Trust said: “We tend to organise bespoke receptions and dinners. 

“The Events Team works closely with organisers to help with detailed planning, and is there to ensure the event is a success.”