“I might die young or I might die old, but I will never die of boredom”
– Roy Bates –
Wondering who Roy Bates is? Well, let me pose a question to you.
If I were to ask you, “What’s the smallest country in the world?” you would probably answer with Vatican City. However, would you be intrigued to learn that there exists an even smallest country in the world, one that Google never mentions when you inquire about the smallest country on Earth?
Well, now let me tell you a story.
In 1960, a British man wanted to start his own radio station in the UK. However, this endeavour was not allowed. So he decided to set out – accurately put, he chose to sail to a platform in the middle of the ocean, with the precise intention of starting his radio station. And guess what? He did start his own radio station.
His name was Patrick Roy Bates, and the place he sailed to was called Sealand.
One day, he had the crazy idea of making the platform his own country. He began to put in real work, even styling himself as Prince Roy of Sealand, and the rest is history.
Roy Bates developed the constitution, a flag, currency, national anthem, and even passports for Sealand, which are still in circulation. Roy certainly took this endeavour seriously. His family continues to operate Sealand.
Birth of smallest country. Who built Sealand?
Sealand is officially known as the ‘Principality of Sealand.’ It is a unique country situated on a platform, encompassing a total area of 0.004 square kilometres. Positioned in the North Sea, merely 10 kilometres from England, it is surrounded by the sea on all sides. The BBC once referred to Sealand as a peculiar ‘nation’ off the coast of England.
The Principality of Sealand was constructed during World War II by the British government to monitor Germans who were laying mines off the coast of England. Despite its initial purpose, which was to be dismantled after the conclusion of the war, this plan did not come to fruition.
In essence, Sealand functioned as an anti-aircraft gun platform. The platform spans 120 by 50 feet and is upheld by two large, hollow concrete towers. The station accommodated over 300 Royal Navy personnel.
Can you visit Sealand?
Yes! It is a two-hour drive from London City to the dock and a one-hour sail to Sealand – quite the adventure.
However, do not assume that being located in the middle of the sea makes it visa-free. A VISA and a special permit are required.
Within the two towers, you’ll find furnished bedrooms, a living room, a toilet, a kitchen, a chapel, a gym, and even a jail. Electricity and running water are sourced from solar energy and rainwater, respectively.
Ironically, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea clearly stipulates that ‘Artificial islands, installations, and structures do not possess the status of islands.’ Quite unfortunate, isn’t it?
