The Nao Victoria, a replica of the first ship to circumnavigate the world in the 16th century, will be docked in St Peter Port and opening its decks to the public on select dates between Monday 7th and Sunday 20th September.
The vessel operates as a floating museum, and the Nao Victoria Foundation will be running self-guided tours on board the flagship at the Cruise Tenders Pontoon on Albert Pier on 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, and 19th September between 10am and 8pm.
Tickets are available on the Nao Victoria’s Foundation’s website at www.fundacionnaovictoria.org.
The original Nao Victoria completed the world’s first circumnavigation of the globe between 1519 and 1522. Under the command of Juan Sebastián Elcano and after three years of suffering at sea, a crew of 18 men became the first to cross the oceans aboard the vessel and reveal the true size of the Earth.
The replica was built in 1992 in Seville, which is the capital of the autonomous community of Andalusia in Spain and the original vessel’s port of origin. It completed its own circumnavigation of the globe between 2004 and 2006 – sailing 26,894 nautical miles and visiting 17 countries across five continents. It has generated significant public interest at ports across Europe, including an appearance at the Jersey Boat Show earlier this year.
James Way, Harbourmaster at Guernsey Ports, said:
“The Nao Victoria promises to be a striking addition to Guernsey harbour and an exciting attraction for the public during her stay. Opportunities to host the replica of a vessel of such historical significance are rare, and her visit will provide islanders and visitors alike with a unique chance to experience a fascinating piece of maritime history.
“As an island community with a strong connection to the sea, Guernsey has always valued its maritime heritage, and we are pleased to support initiatives that bring that heritage to life in an engaging and accessible way.”
