Princess Anne attended a royal engagement just days after the announcement of the death of her father, Prince Philip, and she was dressed in all black, as she and the royal family are still in the period of mourning.

The Princess Royal was at the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes, which was a particularly significant visit as her father had been a long-time member of the organization as a commodore and an admiral. During the royal engagement, Anne lovingly spoke of Philip and shared anecdotes of her early memories of sailing in Cowes with her father.

The Princess Royal also said that she was a "nuisance" as a young sailor with her father. She started off quite young but she has very fond memories of her experiences in the water. Anne said that after learning from Philip, she understood why her father loved to frequent the squadron.

Princess Anne managed to smile as she spoke with aspiring young sailors who shared their experiences with the royal. She also blurted out a laugh when she was asked to sign the Squadron's guest book because she said she hasn't done this in a long time. The Princess Royal was wearing a black coat and black pants, while sunglasses covered her eyes.

A day after her father's death, Anne shared a message to the public, which was posted on the Royal Family Instagram. She said that while his death was inevitable, she could never be ready for this loss. The queen's only daughter regarded her father as her teacher, supporter and critic and was proud of his dedication to service.

The Princess Royal is the second member of the royal family to go back to work during their mourning period. Queen Elizabeth performed her royal duties as well as she hosted a ceremony for the retirement of Lord Chamberlain Earl Peel at Windsor Castle. However, the queen has yet to make a public appearance following her husband's death.

It is understood that Queen Elizabeth will be sitting alone during the funeral due to the COVID-19 rules. The only people allowed to be near her are those in her royal bubble, which had been Philip and a few Windsor staff.

The rest of the royal family, including Princess Anne, are expected to observe social distancing as well. Sources said that Buckingham Palace fully intends to abide by the guidelines and everyone in the royal family and the households have been fully informed of the protocols for the funeral on Saturday, April 17.