Britain’s concluded a four-day visit to Cape Town on Thursday, highlighting his ongoing commitment to conservation and recalling his time as a rescue pilot.

During the trip, the Prince of Wales took part in a number of environmental initiatives, including a visit to the National Sea Rescue Institute in Simon’s Town, a coastal town near Cape Town.

Wearing a red waterproof jacket and sunglasses, William boarded a sea rescue boat for a short trip to Kalk Bay Harbor, where he met with fishermen.

William, who has a background in rescue services as a former Royal Air Force helicopter pilot, expressed enthusiasm for the work being done by volunteers.

He stood on the top deck as the boat departed from Simon’s Town, which is home to South Africa’s primary naval base.

When Was Prince William a Rescue Pilot?

The prince, who is in South Africa to promote his environmental prize, also toured the National Sea Rescue Institute’s operations, meeting volunteers and learning about the training and support they receive.

When one volunteer inquired about his own rescue experience, William replied, “I miss this life. Any chance to get back, I’ll take.”

He later met Mike Vonk, CEO of the National Sea Rescue Institute, who said, “With the prince’s background in rescue services, he was really interested in the work we do.”

The Earthshot Prize, which William launched in 2021, aims to recognize and support businesses and individuals driving innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

What is the Earthshot Prize?

On Wednesday evening, Cape Town hosted the prize’s annual awards ceremony, where grants of $1.2 million were awarded to five climate-friendly businesses.

Throughout his visit, William has used his platform to raise awareness about various environmental issues, including the illegal wildlife trade, efforts to protect Cape Town’s National Park, and the work of conservation rangers.

Thursday’s activities focused on sustainability and coastal conservation.

After his time on the rescue boat, the prince met with fishermen in Kalk Bay, learning how they are using new technology to fish sustainably.

Fishing Information Detailed

The fishermen also shared how they provide customers with more detailed information about where their seafood comes from and how it is caught.

For lunch, the fishermen prepared some of their fresh catch on a barbecue for William to sample.

While William focused on his environmental work, his wife, Kate, and their three children—Prince George, , and —join him in Cape Town.

This article contains additional reporting from The Associated Press