The Princess of Asturias is about to embark on a new adventure. After spending a few days relaxing with friends in sunny Malaga, Leonor has returned to Madrid to pack her suitcase. The destination? The Escuela Naval de Marín, in Galicia.
This Thursday, Leonor will cross the gates of the academy, ready to immerse herself in the naval world. Unlike last year, when her parents and sister saw her off in Zaragoza, this time the princess will arrive alone. She is no longer a rookie, but a midshipman with ensign’s stripes.
Although journalists will be attentive to her arrival, it will be the cameras of the Royal House that will show us Leonor’s first days in Marin. We will see her wearing the characteristic white uniform.
But what’s in the suitcase of a future midshipman? From white underwear to a sewing kit, shower slippers and a clothes marker.
The rest of the gear, valued at $500, she’ll buy at the military bazaar in Marin. Socks, caps, gloves… everything she needs to look impeccable.
Princess Leonor’s routine at the Naval Academy
From Friday, Leonor will immerse herself in a military routine. The alarm clock will go off at 6:45 a.m., and after getting cleaned up and dressed, she will have breakfast with her fellow soldiers.
One of the perks of being a junior is being able to choose where to sit in the dining hall – no assigned seats!
Classes start at 9 o’clock, focusing on sailing and naval culture. Between classes, there is a snack break, a perfect time to chat with classmates.
After class, it’s time for sports. Whether it’s running around Pontevedra or along the “beach path” to Aguete, the midshipmen keep fit. One day a week, they even dive into the swimming pool.
Meals are a ritual. Waiters serve course by course, teaching the future officers the rules of protocol. Afterwards, a short break before returning to action.
In the evening, the entire academy gathers to hear the next day’s order and pray. Then it’s time to study. Dinner is at 9:30, and afterward, the midshipmen can relax a bit by watching TV or using their tablets.
Although technically they could go out to Marin or Pontevedra every day, the reality is that the schedule is so tight that almost no one does. As former students say: “The day is calculated to the millimeter and it’s very hard”.
This is what Leonor’s life will be like in the coming months. A mixture of military discipline, intense study and camaraderie. Undoubtedly, an experience that will prepare her not only for her future in the navy, but also for her role as the future queen of Spain.