Sealand: The micronation carving its own path

Sealand, a micronation perched on a former World War II fort seven miles off England's coast, claims sovereignty and boasts a constitution, government, and national anthem. Correspondent Jon Wertheim visited the unique entity for CBS News' 60 Minutes, documenting the adventure of reaching and staying overnight on the platform.

Getting to Sealand is an expedition in itself. Wertheim described the journey as feeling much farther than its actual distance from shore. The crew arrived by boat and were then hoisted onto the platform in a swing, a process that took hours to transfer all equipment. The fort's two seven-story towers, once designed to defend against bombing raids, now house the nation's infrastructure.

“

It's one of these places where you see where it is on a map, and you'd say, 'That looks reasonable.' But this could have been in the South Pacific. It's really far.

Inside, the micronation adapts everyday items for its governmental functions. A bench press serves as the national gym, two taper candles form the chapel, and a simple pasta dish was the state dinner during the visit. Sleeping quarters are within the towers, with one room situated at sea level, where the North Sea waves lapped mere inches from the bed, making for an uncomfortable night's sleep.

The dream of running a sovereign nation comes at a significant cost. Prince Michael Bates estimates his family has invested millions of dollars since establishing Sealand in 1967. To sustain the principality, the Bates family leverages the internet age, selling souvenirs like stamps and hoodies, offering personalized email addresses, and establishing an "E-Citizenship" program. For $9.99 a month, members receive digital and physical ID cards, with funds contributing to ocean cleanup efforts around Sealand. Additionally, honorary titles, such as knighthoods for $149.99 or count/countess for $270, are available for purchase.

“

I'd be lying if I said it was the most comfortable night's sleep.