Episode 28- Sealand with Prince Michael

Prince Michael of Sealand is quite a royal chap. For real, he’s actual royalty. Shocked we could get someone from an actual royal family to talk to us? We were too.

Sealand is the smallest Sovereign Principality in the world. Founded in 1967 by Michael’s parents, Sealand was proclaimed on a foundation of free speech and great radio broadcasting. Now that’s a country we can clearly get behind.

Sealand originally began as a Pirate Radio base offshore from the British Mainland. Known as Radio Essex, the former Rough’s Tower Naval fortress soon became a key broadcaster during the Pirate Radio movement. After many a battle with the British Government Michael’s father, Roy, declared Sealand’s independence and the new country was born.

Over the years Sealand has faced battles and attempted takeovers but has held its ground. With Michael now at the helm, it remains an active principality to date.

Make no mistake, Michael and his family are still proud British subjects, but they live their lives as dual citizens.

Sealand has its own constitution complete with preamble and seven articles, its own motto and flag. The country is ruled through the lineage of Michael’s family- the Bates with it being passed down through the generation line.  Although it is tiny, the country is 100 percent real and has even faced very real attacks over the decades.

At any given time, there are 10s of people inhabiting Sealand but even with such a small population, they have managed to compete in major athletic competitions around the globe. We even asked if they might pursue a World Cup bid at some point, nothing is out of the question.

Fascinating, right? Michael shares with us a few of his many tales of life at Sealand as well as some anecdotes of his travels around the world as a little-known Prince. He’s written an autobiography that delves deep into the history of Sealand and all that it stands for that takes the fascination to another level.

Wishing you could have your own country? It’s not as easy as it may sound, but you can actually get yourself a title at Sealand. The opportunity to become a Duke, Duchess, Lord, Lady and everything in between is actually available for purchase on the Sealand website. The titles were created in this manner to help fund the continuing operation of Sealand and its principles.  For those with less desire to be regal, there are also t-shirts, mugs and a host of other souvenirs available. Visit www.sealand.gov for the whole collection.

As far as what’s next for Michael and his family, he’s currently enjoying life as a newlywed. His bride is a decorated General from the Chinese Army. She is now also Princess of Sealand. They spend the majority of their time on the mainland but still venture to Sealand regularly.

Have a listen, read the book and learn for yourself if being a prince is all it’s cracked up to be.