Princess Lilibet appears to have inherited her late grandmother Princess Diana's passion for swimming, as captured in recent holiday photos shared by Meghan Markle. The images, documenting a European getaway, show a playful moment between Lilibet and her father, Prince Harry, frolicking in a pool.
One black-and-white photograph posted on Instagram depicts Prince Harry tossing the young princess in the air. It remains unclear if the photo was taken during the family's trip to Portugal or during their stay at Althorp, Princess Diana's childhood home. Lilibet, who is five years old, demonstrated clear enthusiasm for the water, much like Diana, who was an accomplished diver and reportedly began her days with extensive swimming sessions.
Prior to their visit to the UK, the family, including seven-year-old Archie, enjoyed a sun-soaked vacation in Melides, Portugal. Meghan's shared snapshots from this trip showcased intimate dinners, ocean play, and visits to local shops. In one instance, Prince Harry, a known surfer, is seen heading into the Atlantic with his children following close behind, while Meghan observes from the shore. Meghan's attire in a particular photograph was noted by some observers to resemble a style favored by Diana.
Prince Harry's engagement with the water also evoked memories of Princess Diana's own water activities. Royal observers recalled a 1993 holiday to Nevis in the Caribbean, where Diana took her sons, then aged ten and eight, for a getaway. During that trip, Diana, William, and Harry engaged in activities like bodyboarding, with photos showing Diana holding a pink board in the waves. Accounts from that time described Diana as enjoying the surf without concern.
Princess Diana's connection to water was a recurring theme throughout her life. Her brother, Earl Spencer, has previously shared nostalgic posts about their shared love for swimming, recalling their childhood spent by the pool at their family home in Sandringham. Diana was recognized as a swimming and diving champion during her school years, with an instructor noting her 'speed and style.'
The Sussex family's European trip also included a visit to Althorp, Princess Diana's ancestral estate. Meghan revealed that the family stayed as guests of Earl Spencer at Althorp, providing Archie and Lilibet an opportunity to visit a place closely associated with their late grandmother. Images from this visit show Harry and Archie walking through the estate's famed tree-lined avenue, carrying bouquets to lay at Diana's grave and a nearby memorial.
This recent holiday, with its focus on water activities and poignant family visits, has drawn parallels between Princess Lilibet's enjoyment of the water and the well-documented affinity Princess Diana had for it throughout her life.