Crew members of the RSS David Attenborough have become the first same sex couple to marry in the British Antarctic Territory.
Stewards Eric Bourne and Stephen Carpenter, 41 and 49, have been together for 20 years and finally tied the knot.
Captain of the RSS David Attenborough Will Whatley officiated the ceremony at the British Antarctic Survey's Rothera Research Station.
The pair stood out in the sunshine, Stephen even bravely donning a kilt for the special day.
Speaking to the PA news agency, Mr Bourne said he is “proud to be part of history”, saying it was “the best day” of his life.
“To say it was amazing is an understatement. It was an unforgettable day.”
The grooms began their wedding day in the ship's galley at 5.30am where they started to prepare for the ceremony.
They then gathered in the sunshine with the ship's crew and teams from the Rothera Research Station to get married.
Mr Bourne said the crew have “supported us every single step of the way”.
“I feel privileged to work with such an amazing team,” he added.
Both are experienced seafarers, travelling the world together on several vessels.
The pair met in December 2002 while they were working for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
They later deployed to the Middle East aboard RFA Sir Percivale.
“When we got back (from the Middle East) after six months, our relationship had established itself. We’ve been together ever since,” Mr Bourne told PA.
Mr Carpenter joined the British Antarctic Survey in 2020 and the couple realised the Antarctica would be the perfect spot for the wedding.
“It’s a completely different world from what we’re all used to. This is such a special part of the world,” Mr Bourne explained.
The happy couple listened to speeches from their best men, both of whom were crew members, as well as telegrams and toasts, and music from the ship's doctor.
Captain of the ship Mr Whatley described officiating the wedding as an "honour". He said: “The RRS Sir David Attenborough is not only our place of work but also our home, and it is a privilege to help two integral members of our crew celebrate their special day.”
The British Antarctic Territory Government, based in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, will register the marriage, which will be valid in the UK.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here
