The Duchess of Gloucester visited and learnt about the many programmes at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences today.

Her Royal Highness Birgitte, who arrived on the island last night, was joined by Andrew Murdoch, the Governor and honorary chancellor of Bios, during the tour hosted by the institute’s new president and chief executive Craig Carlson.

A spokeswoman said: “The visit celebrated ASU Bios’s contributions to the study of the Sargasso Sea and the wider Atlantic Ocean, as well as its longstanding educational partnerships that have brought undergraduate and graduate students, along with postdoctoral scholars, to Bermuda from leading universities around the world.”

Dr Carlson said that Bios, a division of Arizona State University, “is a world-class institution, and this visit is an opportunity to showcase the incredible work that is done in Bermuda”.

He added: “Our campus is a hub for ocean science that takes strength from its international networks and long-term commitment to educating the next generation of marine scientists.”

Mr Murdoch remarked: “ASU Bios is a world-class institution, and this visit is an opportunity to showcase the incredible work that is done in Bermuda.

“The research done here is of global significance. We are fortunate to have such a wonderful facility on our shores, providing an opportunity for young Bermudians to learn about the ocean and how to protect it.”

Kaitlin Noyes, the Bios director of education and community engagement, said: “We were honoured to welcome the Duchess and have our student leaders demonstrate the impact of our educational programmes.”

Andrew Peters, the Bios director of education for university programmes, said: “Our partnerships with Canadian and UK institutions are vital as higher education becomes increasingly global.

“The leverage and collaboration we enjoy with these universities strengthen our collective response to global challenges.”