The ceremony concluded with local musical performances and reflections.
"There was also a song and a poem, a wreath laid and all the names of the 15 that died read out, with flowers laid for each person.
Then it was off to the George for some light refreshments," said Fowler.
Dolgellau Town Councillor Nia Wyn Evans emphasized the community's responsibility to honor both the lost lives and the heroic rescue efforts by hotel staff and local residents.
"This anniversary is an important moment for our community to come together in remembrance of those who lost their lives, and to honour the courage and selflessness of those who assisted others with so little regard for their own safety," said Evans.
She noted that the structure serves as a lasting symbol of the town's history.
"The new memorial will stand as a lasting tribute – not only to the lives lost, but to the bravery shown here in Llyn Penmaen sixty years ago," said Evans.
Senedd Member Siân Gwenllian also attended the service alongside community members to pay her respects.
"Today marks 60 years since the Prince of Wales Pleasure Boat Disaster at Penmaenpool, near Dolgellau.
I have a child's memory of the incident, as I was a young girl at the time, and my family had just moved from the Dolgellau area," said Gwenllian.
She reflected on the scale of the tragedy that impacted the region decades ago.
"On 22 July 1966, the Prince of Wales was nearing the end of its journey from Barmouth when it struck the toll bridge at Penmaenpool.
There were 42 people on board, and tragically, 15 lost their lives," said Gwenllian.
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The Penmaenpool toll bridge remained illuminated through July 27, 2026, as part of the week-long tributes.
